The blade is equipped with an extremely effective razor sharpening.
The central core is made of sintered stainless steel of Japanese production, SG2 Micro Carbide, covered with 161 layers of stainless steel with variable rigidity.
This high carbon material is exceptionally hard (Rockwell value: approx. 63).
Sintered steel is preferred because it guarantees high parameters of purity and resistance.
The blade thus obtained is extremely hard and guarantees an exceptionally effective edge. Its surface is enriched by a very pleasant damask chiseling confirming the high quality level marked by the acronym Super GOU 161.
The handle of the knife is made of Canva-Micarta material, approved by FDA standards.
It is an extremely durable and resistant material, made up of resins and black and red linen fiber. It has an accurate finish and is destined to last for decades.
The handle is fixed with 3 stainless steel rivets.
It is finished with a stainless steel knob which gives the knife exceptional qualities of stability, balance and functionality. The stylized brand is engraved on the knob.
Blade length cm. 18
Total length cm. 32
FAQs
What characterises the SUPER GOU 161 series?
The SUPER GOU 161 series by Yaxell represents the highest level within the range. It features an SG2 powdered steel core clad in 161 layers of Damascus steel, a construction that enhances blade stability and reduces micro-vibrations during cutting.Compared to the Gou 101, it maintains very high performance but delivers a smoother, more uniform, and more controlled cutting feel. The result is a blade that feels less “nervous” and more stable, especially during extended use.
Who is it recommended for?
It is designed for experienced users and professionals seeking top-level performance with a more refined and controlled feel. It requires solid technique but offers superior stability in return.
What is it ideal for?
Ideal for high-precision work, technical preparation, and continuous use. It excels where consistency, control, and cutting uniformity directly impact the final result.
How should it be maintained?
It requires careful maintenance: hand wash, immediate drying, and precise sharpening on whetstones. The high hardness of SG2 demands careful handling, avoiding twisting or impact, but ensures excellent edge retention.
What truly distinguishes Yaxell knives within the Japanese knife market?
Yaxell occupies a very specific position: it is one of the brands that most effectively translates Japanese knife-making tradition into a high-quality industrial product, while maintaining both consistency and accessibility. Unlike fully handcrafted knives, Yaxell relies on controlled processes and modern steels such as VG-10 and SG2 to achieve high and consistent performance. The result is a blade that combines Damascus-style aesthetics, high hardness, and stable cutting performance, without entering the extreme complexity of more elite artisanal knives.
What is the real philosophy behind the Yaxell brand?
Yaxell’s philosophy is not just about Japanese tradition, but about making that tradition practical and usable at scale. Each knife is designed to deliver precise cutting, long-lasting edge stability, and strong perceived quality, including visual appeal, while maintaining consistency and reliability through industrial production.
How should the differences between Yaxell series be understood?
The main differences lie in the type of steel (VG-10 vs SG2), blade rigidity, and edge retention. VG-10 lines offer a balance between performance and ease of use, while SG2 lines represent a clear step up in performance, with higher hardness, longer edge life, and greater cutting precision.
Who are Yaxell knives recommended for?
Yaxell covers a wide range of users, from those entering the world of Japanese knives to advanced professionals. It is an ideal choice for anyone looking for high performance that remains manageable in everyday use.
What are they ideal for?
They excel in precision cutting, repetitive preparation tasks, and continuous use. The more advanced series offer greater stability and consistency during extended work sessions.
What is the correct maintenance approach?
Hand wash, dry immediately, and sharpen regularly using whetstones. SG2 series require more attention due to their higher hardness.
What distinguishes Japanese knives from Western ones?
Thinner geometries, sharper edge angles and an approach focused on precision and clean cutting.
Santoku or Gyuto: which should you choose?
The santoku is compact and versatile for everyday use; the gyuto is closer to a classic chef’s knife and is ideal for long cuts and sustained work.
Are Japanese knives more delicate?
Yes, they often require more care: they are not suitable for bones, frozen foods or twisting, but offer superior cutting performance when used correctly.
How do you properly sharpen a Japanese knife?
Whetstone sharpening is ideal: a medium grit for maintenance and a finer grit for finishing, adapting the choice to the steel and usage.