Global G-80 Santoku Knife (18cm, Fluted Blade)

What makes the fluted blade different from regular santoku knives?

The fluted blade features specially designed grooves that create air pockets during cutting. These grooves prevent food from sticking to the blade surface, particularly useful when slicing sticky ingredients like cheese, cooked meats, or vegetables with high moisture content. This design reduces drag and makes cutting more efficient compared to smooth-bladed knives.

How should I properly care for this Global knife?

Hand wash the knife immediately after use with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Never put it in the dishwasher as this can damage the blade edge and handle. Store the knife in a knife block or magnetic strip to protect the edge. Regular sharpening with a Global MinoSharp or ceramic sharpener maintains optimal performance.

What cutting tasks is this 18cm santoku knife best suited for?

This knife excels at dicing vegetables, slicing meat, mincing herbs and general food preparation tasks. The 18cm blade length provides excellent control for detailed work whilst being large enough for most kitchen tasks. It's particularly effective for Japanese-style cutting techniques and works well with fish, vegetables and boneless meats.

How does the sand-filled handle affect the knife's performance?

The sand-filled hollow handle creates perfect balance by counterweighting the blade. This engineering reduces hand fatigue during extended use and improves cutting accuracy. The balanced design allows for more controlled cutting motions and makes the knife feel lighter in hand despite its substantial construction.

Is this knife suitable for professional kitchen use?

Yes, Global knives are widely used in professional kitchens worldwide. The seamless stainless steel construction meets commercial hygiene standards, whilst the CROMOVA 18 steel maintains its edge through heavy daily use. Many professional chefs prefer Global knives for their reliability, sharpness retention and easy maintenance requirements.

What's the difference between this santoku and a traditional chef's knife?

Santoku knives feature a straighter edge profile compared to the curved belly of chef's knives, making them better suited for chopping motions rather than rocking cuts. The santoku's wider blade provides more knuckle clearance and the fluted design prevents food sticking. This makes it particularly effective for precise vegetable work and Asian cooking techniques.

How long does the edge stay sharp with regular use?

The CROMOVA 18 steel and 15-degree convex edge design maintain sharpness significantly longer than standard kitchen knives. With proper care and regular honing, the edge can remain razor-sharp for months of regular home use. Professional kitchens may require more frequent sharpening due to higher usage volumes, but the steel's hardness ensures consistent performance.

Can I sharpen this knife myself or do I need professional sharpening?

You can maintain the edge yourself using Global's MinoSharp sharpeners or ceramic sharpening rods designed for the 15-degree angle. These tools are specifically designed for Global knives and maintain the correct edge geometry. For major edge restoration or if you're uncomfortable sharpening, professional knife sharpening services can restore the blade to factory specifications.