Chris Reeve Sikayo (9")

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Sep 29, 2008
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The Sikayo is a kitchen knife design from Chris Reeve. It comes in two lengths, a 9" and 6". After handling the 9" I will probably be getting the 6" as well at some point soon. The close price difference led me to the 9" as an initial knife, and it does not disappoint.

These knives are chisel ground. One side is completely flat, the other has a hollow grind. My initial impression was that this would cause the same issues every other chisel ground knife I've had has exhibited, poor tracking with a sharp lean towards one side. I can gladly say that this knife doesn't. It will pull slightly if you're cutting something very thick, however this is extremely minor and easily corrected. Would I be happier if they weren't chisel ground? Maybe. I can't say for sure.

The handle looks simple, but is probably one of the most comfortable kitchen knife handles I've held. These knives are dedicated right or left handed, with that side handle slab being thicker then the other. The "step" in the handle also makes it comfortable to wrap a full hand grip on the handle alone, while the slight kick on the blade grind makes choking up for fine control easy as well.

Previously in the kitchen I had used my Lg. Insigno. Comparing the lower blade shape I find it to have a very similar curve that for some magical reason works well on just about everything. Meat, carrots, onions, cheese, bread, lettuce, and more.

All around I find this an excellent knife and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a solid kitchen performer. The only downside is now I need a new knife block. :)
 
I use light kitchen knives from Japan...how heavy is the Sikayo?

Chris D. :D
 
I use light kitchen knives from Japan...how heavy is the Sikayo?

Chris D. :D

The 9" is listed at 7.6 oz. In the hand it feels a bit lighter. I would attribute this to the hollow grind and taper. Comparing it to a Henkels 8" chefs knife I think it's a bit lighter, but that could be my mind playing tricks.

IIRC most of the Japanese style kitchen cutlery has thinner blades and a stick handle. This would probably lend them to be lighter.
 
Thanks for the great review and additional info concerning the weight. My Tojiro 170mm weights in at 7.15 oz. and the Hattori comes in at 6.70 oz.

So, the 9" Sikayo at 7.6 oz.... is very exciting to me :eek:

Guess I'll be getting one in the near future!!

Chris D. :D
 
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