[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Just received the knife, but I'm fairly impressed with the first impression. Nice size and considerably heavier than I expected, but not in a bad way. Feels good in your hand. And seems to be as sharp as expected. SG2 steel so hoping it will last a while.
I love the Miyabi line, but Artisan has to be my absolute favorite. I love everything about this knife and proudly it hangs on the magnetic knife bar in my kitchen. I love the handle, the hammer blade with the traditional sharpness of a Japanese blade. Sometimes I like the smaller chef knife; I feel like I have more control and if working with something on the more difficult side, I like to have that control. The D-shape handle fits comfortably in my hand so I do not get tired when working in the kitchen for longer periods of time.
From what i've researched, the steel on this 6" chef knife is about the best you can buy. Sg2 steel is made with a powdered steel and then its forged. All the markers of a premium knife. The outer layers of softer steel protect the very rigid center layer, keeping it as sharp as can be. This is a very special knife and you deserve it, I know I did!
This 6 inch chef is great for the smaller slicing and dicing in the kitchen where an 8 inch may be too much. The Artisan is a very sharp knife made with high quality steel and has a "D" shaped handle for comfortability.
I prefer the 6" Chef over the 8", as it feels better and easier to handle in my hand. The quality of these is amazing - w/ the Damascus layering pattern makes for foods that will not stick. Thin Japanese blade makes it lighter weight and easy to handle.