While the majestic Miyabi is owned by the esteemed German titan, Zwilling J.A. Henckels, its heart remains in Seki City. Dubbed the ‘knife-making hub’ of Japan, it’s here that every Miyabi knives blade is born, drawing from time-honored traditions. They’re not just creating knives; they’re crafting stories, ensuring every piece is a masterpiece, reigning supreme in the elite world of kitchen cutlery.
Miyabi doesn’t just randomly create those ultra-sharp blades. It’s a passionate dance of handcrafting techniques, resulting in a razor’s edge. Side note: having tried blades from competitors like Shun, personally, Miyabi knives edges them out (pun intended).
But the true Miyabi magic lies in their intricate three-step sharpening ritual. Each blade, crafted with utmost care, promises to be your knight in shining armor. Using high-quality stainless steel blends, these knives don’t just resist rust; they shout durability. And if you’re someone who believes that knives should be a treat to the eyes as much as they are to the food, Miyabi knives will be love at first sight with their Damascus finishes and enticing aesthetic touches.
While some Miyabi knives might make your wallet wince a tad, the beauty is their diverse range. Whether you’re a novice seeking your first professional knife or a connoisseur looking to elevate your collection, Miyabi has got your back. From single masterpieces to majestic sets accompanied by wooden kitchen blocks, the world of Miyabi knives awaits your exploration.
1. Miyabi Birchwood Chef’s Knife
You see, the Miyabi Birchwood series isn’t just another knife collection; it’s a cut above the rest (pun intended). Natural birchwood handles, flawlessly merging with 100-layer Damascus steel blades. Dive deeper into the blade, and you’ll discover an SG2 micro-carbide steel core, a perfect blend of lightweight design and lasting durability. And if I were to handpick a star from this series, the chef’s knife would steal the limelight. Worth every penny, its performance might just make you reconsider that full knife set you’ve been eyeing!
The MIYABI Birchwood Chef’s Knife isn’t merely a kitchen tool; it’s a canvas painted with the finest materials. Beneath its sleek exterior, the blade showcases a mesmerizing flower Damascus pattern, not just for its aesthetic charm but also for unparalleled durability. The innovative ice-hardening technique employed by MIYABI ensures the CRYODUR blades retain their razor-sharp edge longer than you’d imagine.
It’s a work of art and a beast, fashioned from the rare Karelian (Masur) Birch. Karelian Birch isn’t just exclusive to knife-making; it’s the sole wood gracing the legendary Faberge eggs. Every time you grip this knife, you’re not just prepping your food; you’re embracing a slice of luxury. The ergonomic design ensures that this knife doesn’t just look good; it feels fantastic in action. And remember, every Miyabi Birchwood Chef’s Knife comes to life in Seki, Japan – the heartland of legendary blades.
You may also like this:
2. Miyabi Kaizen II 8-inch Chef’s Knife
The Miyabi Kaizen and its evolved sibling, the Kaizen II, stand tall with their exquisitely balanced blades, boasting that classic slender Japanese silhouette. If you’re drawing parallels with giants like Shun and Kamikoto, you’re spot on! Having experienced various blades over the years, I’ve come to cherish the Miyabi Kaizen series for its unique ice-hardening prowess. The edge retention and robustness this process offers are unparalleled, especially for the price point.
Taking a moment to revel in the art of Japanese perfection, the word “Kaizen” translates to “continuous improvement”. With the Kaizen II, MIYABI isn’t just iterating; they’re leaping. Age-old Japanese artistry fusing with state-of-the-art hardening tech, and enveloped in a contemporary design. At its heart lies the resilient FC61 super steel core, lovingly embraced by a staggering 48 layers of stainless steel.
But the Miyabi Kaizen II isn’t just about efficiency; it’s poetry in motion. The blade flaunts a captivating flower Damascus pattern, accentuated by a unique acid-dipping process, creating a contrast that’s a feast for the eyes. What makes this knife an heirloom piece is its double FRIODUR ice-hardened blade, offering not just resistance to corrosion but also an enviable lifespan. Kudos to the artisans who meticulously hand-hone using the revered four-step Honbazuke technique.
Every slice, dice, and chop with the Miyabi Kaizen II is a symphony, thanks to the meticulous craftsmanship. The blade’s excellence finds its perfect counterpart in a robust D-shaped handle crafted from black pakkawood. Holding it feels like a handshake with history, offering comfort and precision. And for the trivia lovers out there, every Miyabi Kaizen II knife takes shape in Seki, Japan – the Mecca of premium knife craftsmanship.
3. Miyabi Fusion Morimoto Edition Chef’s Knife
Drawing inspiration from both worlds, the Miyabi Fusion Morimoto Edition knife effortlessly merges Western-influenced ergonomics with the authentic Japanese art of knife-making. The blade, with its meticulous 9.5 to 12-degree Honzabuke edge, speaks volumes of Japanese tradition. Imagine making those ultra-thin slices synonymous with Japanese cuisine; this knife ensures every slice is an ode to precision.
Encased in an enchanting 64-layer flower Damascus pattern lies the VG10 super steel blade – a testament to resilience and finesse. Grasp the handle, and you’ll notice its Western design; thicker at the end ensuring it won’t slip and ensuring tireless, effortless cutting. As someone who values both function and form, I adore the fusion of an easy-to-care-for POM handle with such an illustrious blade. Remember, each of these masterpieces comes alive in the famed knife capital, Seki, Japan.
Speaking from personal experience, a MIYABI knife isn’t just manufactured; it’s birthed. Envision a 42-day journey, and at every step, from forging to fine-tuning, the skilled hands of artisans breathe life into the blade. A knife that doesn’t just fit your hand but dances in it, elevating every culinary experience.
It’s essential to maintain that pristine edge with regular honing using a sharpening steel. Thankfully, MIYABI’s sharpening tools make the task a breeze, ensuring impeccable performance with every use. And yes, occasionally treating your knife to a sharpening session is a must. Whether you opt for MIYABI’s chef-endorsed whetstones or their handy handheld sharpeners, you’re in for a sharpening experience that’s both efficient and satisfying.
You may also like this:
4. Miyabi Birchwood SG2 7-Pc. Knife Block Set
When I first got my hands on the Birchwood SG2 8” chef’s knife, it wasn’t just a touch; it was a connection. A connection so profound that it led me to dive headfirst into the magic of the entire Birchwood SG2 range. And believe me, I was at a loss for words to describe the blend of awe and functionality it offered.
MIYABI Birchwood isn’t just a knife; it’s an ode to culinary passion. With blades and handles sculpted from the finest materials, its beauty is undeniable. Nestled within is the potent core of SG2 micro-carbide powder steel, cocooned in a mesmerizing 100-layer steel protective shield. Enhanced further with MIYABI’s avant-garde ice-hardening technique, the CRYODUR blades’ sharpness isn’t fleeting; it’s here to stay.
Emblazoned with the flower Damascus pattern, durability takes center stage. The blade, sharp as a surgeon’s tool, finds its perfect partner in the striking Karelian (Masur) Birch handle. This same wood is a chosen material for the illustrious Faberge eggs. The balance, the elegance, the grip – MIYABI Birchwood knives are a treat, both for the eyes and the hands.
Here’s a secret – every knife and shear in this set boasts the unparalleled quality of SG2 stainless powdered steel. With a Rockwell hardness score of 63, they’re among the elite in blade resilience. Backed by 50 layers of Damascus steel on each side and a core of SG2 steel, you get a whopping 101 layers of pure, unyielding strength. These knives aren’t just robust; they’re legacy pieces.
5. Miyabi Evolution Chef’s Knife
Miyabi’s Evolution series beautifully fits the bill for budding chefs and passionate home cooks. Touted as Miyabi’s nod to affordability without skimping on quality, this range can be your entry-ticket to the esteemed world of Miyabi knives. These blades have been expertly forged from featherweight, ultra-sharp fine carbide steel, and have an elegantly curved belly. This means whether you’re executing straight cuts or getting rhythmic with rocking chops, this knife has got you covered. Personally, the Evolution chef knife strikes me as an irresistible deal, but do weigh its counterparts in the series against other brands for the best value.
Whisked into existence in Seki, the legendary heartland of Samurai sword mastery, Miyabi fuses the finesse of Japanese artistry with robust German engineering. Dive deep into the charm of unparalleled sharpness with the Evolution range. Gleaming with a mirror finish, the ice-tempered blades vow durability and defiance against corrosion. Made from the trailblazing fine carbide Fc61 steel, these knives uphold the legendary sharpness Japanese blades are celebrated for.
The handle, a triple-riveted ergonomic wonder, beckons you for endless culinary sessions, free from fatigue. Whether you’re embracing Western-style chopping or the rhythmic Asian rocking cuts, this knife is your trusty companion. And here’s the thing, the meticulous craftsmanship isn’t just in the blade; seasoned artisans, with their unwavering commitment, ensure every knife sings tales of unmatched quality. A staggering 100 steps and 42 days – that’s the devotion it takes to craft a knife worthy of the Miyabi name.
Fashioned in the historic corridors of Seki, Japan, every element, from blade to handle, exudes a touch of luxury and an assurance of unparalleled comfort.
You may also like this:
6. MIYABI Mizu SG2 Chef’s Knife
Harnessing the centuries-old Tsuchime method, the knife boasts a trio of SG2 steel layers, artistically hammered to perfection. This isn’t just for aesthetics; it prevents your freshly chopped food from stubbornly sticking to the blade. The Katana edge of this knife is sharpened using the time-honored Honbazuke technique. A 3-step ritual that involves sharpening twice on premium whetstones and then polishing on a leather wheel, it’s reminiscent of the same process that gave samurai swords their lethal edge over a millennium ago.
Taking innovation further, the Cryodur process bestows the blade with a robustness that’s hard to match. This ensures flexibility, unparalleled edge retention, and resistance to corrosion. Perfected at a traditional Japanese blade angle of roughly 12 degrees on both sides, its sharpness is reminiscent of a surgeon’s scalpel. And let’s talk aesthetics – that mesmerizing D-shaped Micarta handle isn’t just gorgeous to look at; it promises durability, adorned with a unique mosaic pin, fiery red spacers, and an emblematic metal end-cap showcasing the MIYABI logo, ensuring equilibrium in every slice.
The Cryodur ice-hardening technique ensures a stellar 63 Rockwell Hardness rating, guaranteeing flexibility with impressive edge retention. If history, art, and science had a rendezvous, it would be in the form of this knife. Every facet, from its age-old Honbazuke sharpening method to the modern Micarta D-shaped handle, exudes finesse. With a bolster for seamless comfort, a decorative mosaic pin, and the iconic Miyabi logo gracing its end, this knife isn’t just a tool; it’s a masterpiece.
7. Miyabi Koh 8-Inch Chef’s Knife
Ditching the signature Miyabi Damascus pattern, the Koh 8” chef’s knife wears its minimalist elegance with pride, ensuring you have a blade that’s both a statement piece and a culinary powerhouse. Dive deeper and you’ll discover it’s forged from the groundbreaking FC61 fine-carbide stainless steel. A blade that dances seamlessly through every culinary challenge, embodying the essence of what a chef’s knife should be.
I’ll admit, its unadorned design had me second-guessing initially. But then, its sheer performance was nothing short of revelatory. The magic lies in its FC61 stainless steel—a marvel that promises durability, courtesy of its fine-carbide composition. Boasting a Rockwell hardness of 61, it’s a harmonious blend of strength and longevity.
Thanks to the age-old 3-step Honbazuke technique, combined with the 4-step Friodur ice-hardening process, this blade emerges with a scalpel-like precision that’s hard to rival. Not only is it extraordinarily tough, but it also resists corrosion, maintaining its sharpness through countless meals.
Let’s get a bit technical: honed meticulously to a 12-degree angle, it promises precision in every slice. Its rounded spine and bolster ensure you sail smoothly through marathon cooking sessions, be it dicing tomatoes or carving a roast. Feast your eyes on its ergonomic faceted pakkawood handle. Not just a treat for the eyes, it ensures your hand finds its home, offering unparalleled comfort and control. It’s robust, full-tang design is the assurance of a knife built to last.
8. Miyabi Black 5000MCD67 8-inch Chef’s Knife
Stepping into the luxurious realm of the Black series, you’re embracing the crème de la crème of Miyabi’s masterpieces. An elegant maple wood handle harmoniously paired with one of the hardest and sharpest steel blades on the market. This is a blade that tells a story through its 132 mesmerizing layers of folded steel, shaped meticulously via the age-old Damascus process. Think of it as a symphony of craftsmanship and tradition in every slice.
For the uninitiated, the gyutoh stands as Japan’s answer to the chef’s knife—a true kitchen all-rounder. Whether you’re meticulously dicing veggies, filleting fresh fish, or creating fruit masterpieces, the Miyabi Black 5000MCD67 Chef’s Knife is your trusty companion, ensuring every cut is a testament to precision.
Now, from a technical standpoint, the magic within the MIYABI Black 5000MCD series lies in its marriage of exquisite Japanese artistry and top-notch German engineering. Nestled within its core is the powerful micro-carbide powdered MC66 steel. Once subjected to an ice-hardening process, this blade achieves a staggering 66 on the Rockwell hardness scale, promising unmatched sharpness and durability. Wrapped around this core are 132 layers of steel, which bloom into a breathtaking flower Damascus pattern. The blade’s beauty is outdone only by its precision, sharpened painstakingly using the revered three-step Honbazuke method.
Fashioned from the esteemed Bigleaf maple, dyed into a mysterious black ash hue, it’s the perfect juxtaposition against the blade’s intricate Damascus pattern. The traditional “D” shape, combined with its rounded spine and heel, feels like an extension of your hand, ensuring that every cut is not just precise but also fatigue-free.
You may also like this:
9. Miyabi Morimoto Edition Chef’s Knife
Drawing inspiration from the eclectic culinary style of chef Morimoto, this masterpiece is the epitome of a harmonious blend of Japanese precision and German robustness. And though it might remind you of its kin, the Miyabi Fusion Morimoto Edition, trust me; the Red Morimoto Edition stakes its claim in the culinary world with a character uniquely its own.
Now, diving a bit deeper: the blade is forged using a high-carbon German stainless steel—a hallmark of the esteemed Zwilling Professional S 8” chef’s knife lineage. Crafted from a singular piece of this prized steel through the revered Sigmaforge process, this knife goes a step further. It’s imbued with unparalleled resilience thanks to the Friodur ice-hardening technique, granting it a formidable 57 Rockwell hardness rating. This ensures that every cut, dice, or slice retains that same finesse, be it on a delicate vegetable or a robust meat cut.
For those of you passionate about angles and sharpness (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), each blade receives dedicated attention, being honed meticulously between 9.5-12 degrees on each side. This is achieved using the time-honored 3-step Honbazuke method, ensuring unparalleled sharpness.
When it comes to its handle, it’s here that the Western touch truly shines. Crafted from glass-bead-enhanced POM—a titan when it comes to resisting bacteria and germs—this ergonomic handle caters to both left-handed and right-handed culinary maestros. Reinforced with three rivets, it promises a secure and steady grip.
While the full-tang design of the Miyabi Red Morimoto Edition 8-Inch Chef’s Knife boasts unmatched balance and durability, there are alternatives in the market with similar features but a softer hit on the wallet. Keep an eye out for those delightful sales, and you might just snag this beauty at a bargain!
10. Miyabi Chef’s Knife
MIYABI Artisan honors Japanese workmanship. These knives combine ancient and modern approaches to create a unique assortment. Tsuchime coats the powerful SG2 micro-carbide powder steel core. Hand-hammered texture prevents food from sticking.
Each knife has a hand-honed blade with a real katana edge to honor Seki’s samurai swords. Cocobolo Rosewood pakkawood handles match the blade’s elegance. The mosaic pin, brass and red spacers, and stainless steel end cap add elegance. The D-shaped handle fits snugly in your hand for long-lasting cutting. Seki, Japan-made.
Miyabi Artisan knives use high-quality SG2 steel. The clever wood-and-resin handles keep the knife affordable while still looking great. Chefs with more German knife expertise will like the larger, thicker grip.
The blade and handle, handcrafted in Seki, Japan, are composed of the finest materials for elegance and comfort. Tsuchime coating on the SG2 super steel core prevents food from adhering. The ergonomic D-shaped Cocobolo handle has brass and red spacers, a mosaic pin, and a stainless-steel end cap.
You may also like this:
How to Choose the Best Knife
It pays to be knowledgeable if you’re determined to get the ideal knife for your cooking technique. I’d like to go through the characteristics I consider when suggesting a knife to friends or family in this part. This will help you determine which brand of knife is best for you when you compare Miyabi’s to other options.
Blade
The majority of the price of the completed product goes toward the material needed to make a knife’s blade. The knife’s utility depends greatly on the blade’s quality. Look for high carbon steel blades for the optimum performance. They are the steel kind with the highest capability for maintaining sharpness and edges.
Compare the methods used to forge and finish the blade after that. To guarantee consistency in quality, sharpness, and longevity, knives like the Miyabi go through a number of steps. If a knife company withholds information regarding their manufacturing method, you may be sure that it is subpar.
Tang
If your kitchen knives cost $100 or more, you shouldn’t accept anything less than complete tang construction. This indicates that a single piece of steel runs from the blade’s tip to the handle’s butt. It serves as a benchmark for toughness and balance and is undeniably proof that a knife has been built to last.
Handle
While a knife’s blade receives most of the attention, its handle contributes more to whether or not it is a suitable fit for you specifically. The greatest knives have handles made of real hardwood or of thick, specific synthetics that are more slip-resistant. Even though I’d want to suggest that I can determine the ideal handle for you, the best approach to decide is still to hold potential choices in your hands to gauge their level of comfort.
