Yaxell Ran Plus 10" Chef's Knife - Japanese VG10 Damascus Steel 67 Layers - Professional Kitchen Knife for Slicing, Dicing & Chopping - Perfect for Home Cooks & Chefs

I do a lot of cooking and this, is one of the best chef knives I’ve ever used. It is scary sharp, very maneuverable and a pleasure to use. I would compare it to the Bob Kramer Carbon 2, which is much more expensive. The only changed I would make are: 1) a wider heel on the blade, which would allow you to easily move cut food easily off the cutting board. 2) remove the space between the bolster and the heel of the knife. This would make a more comfortable and secure pinch grip.Yaxell makes top quality knives, yes not as fancy as other Japanese knives but just as sharp and easy to use. This ‘Ran Plus’ is made from VG10 Damascus steel; its easy to sharpen, holds a nice edge and I haven’t had any stain issues, and the fit and finish is consistently good. I do clean my knives after each use. VG10 not as hard as R2 steel but for the average person you won’t be able to tell the difference other than the overall weight.After several decades of cooking, I thought it was time to upgrade my knife collection. I had a few knives, from Kramer, Miyabi, and one from a small producer in Seki City that I really enjoy using. One weak spot in my collection was my utility knife. I bought this version of the Yaxelll utility knife (I believe there is one that is not hand engraved that is significantly less expensive) and then a Dalstrong Shogun series utility knife. I initially thought that I would have a clear preference, and could then give the runner-up to either a family member or a friend as an upgrade to their knife collection. Ultimately I will be keeping both.The Yaxell knife is ridiculously sharp, and that is always a pleasure. The handle is very comfortable. The balance is good. The blade profile and thickness make it ideal for tasks that involve slicing but do not require a full length slicing knife. I use it to slice home-cured and smoked pork tenderloins, and also homemade gravlax. It's wonderful for tomatoes. Thin slices of fruit for a tart? You bet. It's a very lovely knife and I am glad that I bought it. I would certainly recommend it to you, and if the price is a bit too steep, then consider the simpler version. I suspect that in either case you will get a knife that you enjoy using, and that is an upgrade over what you currently have.As for the Dalstrong product, I will review it separately. I think it has many attractive features. I have one gripe about Dalstrong products, and it may not matter to you. You might be happy with either the Dalstrong product or the Yaxell, but if I were forced to pick one, I would probably go with this one.A truly amazing tool in the kitchen!The finish on the knife is perfect from the edge sharpness, handle finish, balance all perfect.Yaxcell knives are produced in a medium size factory and there are two master sharpeners who finish off each knife that comes out of the factory. A lot of traditional Japanese handmade knife skills go into each knife. I am already researching my next Yaxcell knife purchase because the first one is that good!Bought this for a birthday present for my daughter. It is a work of art, and she will have it for the rest of her life. So nice to use something this beautiful. Also invest a quality Japanese wet stone to keep it razor sharp.Sharp, ergonomic, and beautiful. Great looks, great shape, and my new favorite knife. Worth every penny.I’m head chef at a 200 seat bistro. I use my knives all day, every day. I usually go for 8in, but this knife is great for breaking down big sides of salmon and full loins of beef and pork. I was a Shun guy for many years… this knife has been a game changer. I’m thoroughly impressed with Yaxell.This is a very great and sharp knife! I did a lot of research before purchasing for my boyfriend and he loves it! do not use it against plastic or marble cutting board; try wood to prevent damage. or just use very carefully and don’t slam against cutting board. hand wash only and wash immediately after use to prevent food from sticking. absolutely love it