Hitohira Nao SG2 Kasumi Gyuto 240mm Ebony Handle

When it comes to versatility, nothing really beats a Gyuto. It’s the Japanese take on the classic Western chef’s knife; long enough for most jobs, tall enough to keep your knuckles off the board, and with a slightly narrow tip that makes it great for precision work.
Whether you’re chopping onions, slicing up a roast, fine work or portioning some fish, the Gyuto just does it all. It’s a true all-rounder you’ll find yourself reaching for every day.

This is a stainless steel knife. Stainless steel gets its name from the inclusion of chromium (10-13%) in the alloy, which forms a protective film that helps prevent rust and corrosion by acting as a barrier between the metal and oxygen. While stainless steel knives are practical, functional, and easier to maintain than carbon steel, they are not completely maintenance-free. With improper care, they can still rust or develop pitting—after all, "stainless" does not mean "stain-free."

The level of corrosion resistance varies depending on the type of stainless steel used, but the basic principles of care are similar to those for carbon steel knives. To maintain your knife, store it clean and dry, avoid air-drying after washing, never use the dishwasher, and steer clear of cutting extremely hard items like frozen food or bones.
The key advantage of stainless steel over carbon steel is a greater margin for error—its rust resistance is higher, making it easier to maintain with less worry.

Remember, not all stainless steels are the same. Just like with carbon steels, each stainless steel alloy has its own unique properties and performance characteristics, and should be judged individually.