Hezhen · Santoku

Hezhen 7.5" Santoku

This 7.5-inch Santoku is built for durability with a G10 handle, while the Damascus blade delivers clean, effortless cuts.

Rating
9.1/10
Price
$82
Steel
67-layer Damascus 10Cr15CoMoV
Blade
7.5"

Pros

  • +Durable G10
  • +Workhorse length
  • +Steady control

Cons

  • Plain G10 look
  • A bit stiff

Full review

Design

The Hezhen 7.5" Santoku Damascus is built around 67-layer damascus 10cr15comov at 60-62 HRC, paired with a g10 handle. This 7.5-inch Santoku is built for durability with a G10 handle, while the Damascus blade delivers clean, effortless cuts. The blade profile is a proper santoku — tall and flat for clean push cuts on the board.

Edge retention

67-layer Damascus 10Cr15CoMoV run at 60-62 HRC is a sensible target for this style of knife — hard enough to hold a fine edge through weeks of use, forgiving enough to touch up on a ceramic rod or 1000/6000 stone without micro-chipping. Expect a strop every couple of weeks with daily use and a full stone session every few months.

Ergonomics

The g10 handle is comfortable in either hand, with a balance point that sits right around the bolster for a neutral pinch grip. The spine and choil are eased so long prep sessions don't leave hot spots, and the 7.5" blade length is a solid all-round choice for the santoku format.

Value

At around $82 shipped, this competes with mid-tier Japanese-branded santokus that cost roughly double, and the fit and finish holds up to the comparison. You're paying for the steel, the cladding, and a real g10 handle — not a stamped blade with a plastic grip. As with most factory grinds in this bracket, a short session on a stone taking the edge down to a finer angle makes it noticeably sharper.

Specifications

BrandHezhen
TypeSantoku
Blade Material67-layer Damascus 10Cr15CoMoV
Core Hardness60-62 HRC
Blade Length7.5"
Handle MaterialG10
Edge Angle15° per side
OriginMainland China
Price$82
Final verdict

A reliable and tough professional-style Santoku for those who prioritize longevity and grip.

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