[Date]
2015.11.09

[Score]
★★★★

[Message]
I purchased this 150 mm petty almost a year ago as an inexpensive way to experience handmade knives. All my previous knives were french, japanese, and german production.

I reach for it whenever my larger knives feel too cumbersome or my cutting board is crowded. It can easily handle anything up to large potatoes and onions, and is perfect for shallots, garlic, and other small tasks, including boneless meats.

The blade has a very pleasing rustic look, yet it is wonderfully ground and tapered for performance. Very thin at the edge, but with just enough body behind it to feel solid. The exposed carbon edge has become a grey-blue color that contrasts against the stainless in a very pleasing way. It sharpens easily, and stays sharp far longer than it should, especially if stropped occasionally. The initial edge was very sharp, but had areas of very small chipping, which I quickly fixed on a 4000 stone. No problems of any kind since.

The (western style) handle is a bit too rustic. The spine is below the level of the top of the handle enough to let food particles stick in, making cleaning more of a chore. It is also visually distracting. That said, the handle is made from surprisingly nice Indian Rosewood (I believe) and feels good in the hand. I was worried it felt too small at first, but in use it provides the knuckle clearance I need, and the easy cutting of the blade does not require a wood chopping grip.

Overall, this knife does everything it should, and is just a better handle away from full marks. Thinking about it now though, I've had almost a year to fix or replace the handle and haven't. I probably never will either (though it is worthy of something nicer). I'll probably buy another one too, because I haven't seen or used anything that worked so well for the price.