KURO Series 9-inch Bread Knife with Sheath, High Carbon X-7 Damascus Steel, 504241

This is a review of the CANGSHAN branded KURO Series 9-Inch Bread Knife. The company is a respected US company based in Georgetown Texas, though they manufacture in China. The knife is stated to be 67 layer Damascus steel that Cangshan calls X-7. While not an official classification, it has been found to have properties with Rockwell Hardness of 60+/- 2. That is similar to, but likely better than VG10 Steel with Rockwell hardness of 61-62. The 67 layers of Damascus steel makes for greater toughness, less brittleness, better corrosion resistance, higher sharpness, and a nice pattern.

Thickness measured with a caliper was 2. 1 to 2. 13 mm (slightly thicker than 1/16th inch). The variation suggests confirmation that it is indeed forged and repeatedly folded Damascus steel. Length of blade is 9 inches. It is super sharp due to hand sharpening. Able to slice paper easily despite serrations. It is National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) food safety rated.

Another plus is that it is full tang. Held in place within a fiberglass handle by a signature ornate copper rivet. I might wish for a beefier slightly heavier handle for weight distribution and larger grip. However, this is designed as a bread knife. Not a Chef’s knife.

Usage Tip: It comes with a wooden scabbard. This “Saya sheath” is thick wood with an internal magnet to protect the knife in a drawer. After handwashing, the knife should be fully dried before storage. Since storing it damp in a wood case could both warp the wood…