Grunwerg Katana Saya Carving Set (2 Piece)
Grunwerg Katana Saya Carving Set (2 Piece)
- Low stock - 7 items left
Age Verified Delivery at £6.95 will apply (regardless of the total cost of your order) and delivery driver may require proof of age, if you are lucky enough to look younger than 21!
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Grunwerg Katana Saya Carving Set (2 Piece)
The Grunwerg Katana Saya Carving Set represents Japanese steel craftsmanship at an accessible price point, featuring 67 layers of VG-10 Damascus steel with a hardness rating of HRC 60-63. This premium steel composition delivers exceptional edge retention and toughness whilst the distinctive Damascus pattern creates visual appeal that makes each knife unique. The set includes a 20cm carving knife and 18cm carving fork, working together for precise slicing of roasted meats and fish.
The olive wood handles with decorative opal effect rings balance aesthetic appeal with practical durability, providing comfortable grip and control during carving. Each set arrives in an attractive wooden gift box. The combination of high-quality Japanese steel, handsome presentation, and considered design details makes this set suitable for both personal use and gifting.
Key features:
- 67-layer VG-10 Damascus steel: Premium Japanese steel with high carbon content for exceptional toughness
- Superior hardness: HRC 60-63 rating provides outstanding edge retention between sharpenings
- Distinctive Damascus pattern: Elegant layered appearance resulting from forged steel construction
- Olive wood handles: Dense, hard-wearing natural material with comfortable chestnut-shaped grip
- Decorative opal ring: Distinctive design element adding visual interest
- Complete carving solution: 20cm knife and 18cm fork work together for efficient carving
- Wooden gift box: Attractive presentation suitable for gifting
This carving set suits home cooks seeking Japanese steel quality at reasonable pricing, knife enthusiasts who appreciate Damascus aesthetics, gift-givers looking for impressive presentation, or anyone wanting carving tools that combine exceptional performance with visual distinction.
What Customers Ask About the Katana Saya Carving Set
What's the difference between this and the Lion Sabatier carving set?
The Grunwerg Katana Saya features 67-layer VG-10 Damascus steel with HRC 60-63 hardness, offering exceptional edge retention and the distinctive Damascus pattern. The Lion Sabatier uses N4116 Nitro+ French steel at HRC 58, providing easier sharpening and full tang construction with lifetime warranty. The Grunwerg represents Japanese craftsmanship with premium VG-10 steel and olive wood handles in a gift box. Lion Sabatier offers French heritage dating to 1812 with POM handles and brass rivets. Both are excellent—Grunwerg suits those seeking Damascus aesthetics and Japanese steel, Lion Sabatier suits those preferring French tradition and easier maintenance.
Is VG-10 Damascus steel difficult to sharpen?
VG-10 steel at HRC 60-63 is harder than typical Western knives, meaning it holds an edge longer but requires proper sharpening technique. Regular honing with a steel maintains the edge between sharpenings. When sharpening is needed, use a quality whetstone (1000-6000 grit) rather than pull-through sharpeners which can damage Damascus layers. The harder steel takes slightly longer to sharpen than softer steels, but the trade-off is significantly extended time between sharpenings—many customers sharpen annually or less with regular honing.
Why is this significantly less expensive than the Lion Sabatier set?
The Grunwerg offers excellent value through efficient manufacturing whilst maintaining quality materials like VG-10 Damascus steel. The Lion Sabatier commands premium pricing due to French heritage dating to 1812, Made in France production, lifetime warranty, and the Sabatier brand's established reputation in professional kitchens. Both sets use quality steel and construction—the price difference reflects brand heritage, manufacturing location, and warranty length rather than fundamental quality differences in cutting performance.
Will the olive wood handles withstand regular use?
Olive wood is naturally dense, hard-wearing, and resistant to moisture when properly cared for. With hand washing and immediate drying after each use, the handles will maintain their appearance and integrity for years. Never soak or put in the dishwasher, as prolonged water exposure can cause wood to swell, crack, or loosen from the tang. The opal effect ring adds decorative appeal without compromising durability. Many customers use olive wood handled knives for decades with proper care.
What does the Damascus pattern actually do?
The Damascus pattern results from the 67 layers of steel forged together, creating the distinctive wavy appearance. Functionally, the layered construction can provide slight flexibility whilst maintaining hardness, though the primary benefit of Damascus is the VG-10 core steel's exceptional edge retention and toughness. The visible pattern serves aesthetic purposes, making each knife visually distinctive. The pattern won't wear away—it's integral to the blade structure throughout its thickness.
Understanding VG-10 Damascus Steel
In our 52 years helping customers select quality knives, we've observed increasing interest in Japanese steel compositions like VG-10, and it's worth understanding what makes this material distinct from Western knife steels.
VG-10 is a high-carbon stainless steel developed in Japan specifically for knife making. The "V" stands for "V Gold" (a quality designation), whilst the "10" indicates it's the 10th variation in the series. The high carbon content (approximately 1% carbon) combined with chromium, cobalt, molybdenum, and vanadium creates steel that achieves exceptional hardness (HRC 60-63 in this set) whilst maintaining good corrosion resistance. This hardness allows the blade to hold an extremely sharp edge significantly longer than softer Western steels typically hardened to HRC 54-58.
The Damascus cladding—the 67 layers visible on the blade—surrounds the VG-10 core steel. This layered construction creates the distinctive wavy pattern through differential etching of the various steel layers, each with slightly different compositions. Beyond aesthetics, the Damascus construction can provide subtle benefits in flexibility and edge geometry, though the primary advantage of this knife lies in the VG-10 core's performance characteristics. The harder steel requires more careful sharpening technique than Western knives, but rewards that attention with edge retention that many customers find remarkable—particularly valuable for carving where maintaining sharpness through extended use matters considerably.
Specifications
Carving Knife
Carving Fork
General Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging. Wash the knife and fork in warm, soapy water using a soft cloth. Dry immediately and thoroughly. The knife should be extremely sharp from the factory—handle with appropriate care.
Using for carving: The fork's tines hold meat steady whilst you slice with the knife. Insert the fork into the roast to anchor it, then use the knife to cut thin, even slices. The exceptional sharpness of VG-10 Damascus steel allows clean slicing without tearing meat fibres. Use appropriate cutting surfaces—wood or quality plastic boards that won't damage the edge.
Daily care - critical: Hand wash immediately after each use with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. Never put in the dishwasher—the harsh detergents, high heat, and water pressure will damage both the Damascus blade finish and the olive wood handles. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately with a clean tea towel. Pay particular attention to drying around the handle junction where water can collect. Never leave to air dry, as this can damage olive wood and potentially cause rust spots on the blade.
Maintaining sharpness: Before each use, run the blade along a honing steel 3-4 times per side at approximately 15 degrees. This realigns the edge between proper sharpenings. When the knife no longer responds well to steeling (typically after several months to a year depending on use frequency), it needs proper sharpening. Use a whetstone with progression from 1000 to 3000 to 6000 grit for best results. VG-10 steel at HRC 60-63 requires patience when sharpening—work systematically through the grits, maintaining consistent angle. Alternatively, use a professional knife sharpening service experienced with Japanese steels. Avoid pull-through sharpeners which can damage the Damascus layers.
Handle care: The olive wood handles require no special treatment beyond keeping them dry. Never soak the knives or leave them standing in water. If the wood appears dry over time, you may apply a thin film of food-safe mineral oil, allow it to penetrate for a few hours, then wipe away excess. This is optional—the dense olive wood is naturally moisture-resistant.
Avoiding damage: Never cut on ceramic, glass, stone, or metal surfaces which will damage the edge. Don't use the knife for prying, twisting, or cutting through bones. Avoid cutting frozen foods which can chip even hardened steel.
Storage: Store in a knife block, on a magnetic strip, or in a drawer with blade guards. Never store loose with other utensils where blades can knock against each other or other items. Keep out of reach of children. The wooden gift box provides attractive storage when not in use.
Rust prevention: Whilst VG-10 is stainless steel with good corrosion resistance, it's not rust-proof. Always dry thoroughly after washing. If rust spots appear, remove them immediately with a rust eraser or fine polishing compound, then dry and consider applying a thin film of food-safe mineral oil for protection.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality knives and kitchen tools. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. We stock Grunwerg products because they represent accessible quality—bringing premium materials like VG-10 Damascus steel to customers at reasonable pricing without compromising performance.
Our Expertise Promise
The Katana Saya collection demonstrates that exceptional steel and craftsmanship needn't command premium-brand pricing. VG-10 Damascus steel delivers edge retention comparable to knives costing significantly more, whilst the olive wood handles and presentation packaging add value for customers seeking gift-worthy presentation. This represents the quality-to-value balance we've prioritised throughout our 52 years—accessible excellence without compromising on materials or performance.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've used it for carving. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing quality knives.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this carving set (such as chipping the blade or breaking a handle), we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable. This provides protection for everyday use where accidents can happen despite careful handling.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill. We pack knives carefully to prevent damage during transit.
Can I put this carving set in the dishwasher?
Absolutely not. The dishwasher will damage both the Damascus blade finish and the olive wood handles. High temperatures cause wood to crack and warp, whilst harsh detergents can etch the blade surface and affect the Damascus pattern's appearance. Water pressure can loosen handles over time. Quality knives should always be hand washed, dried immediately, and properly stored. This hand care takes less than a minute and protects your investment.
How often will this need sharpening compared to cheaper knives?
The VG-10 steel at HRC 60-63 holds an edge significantly longer than softer Western steels. With regular honing before each use, many customers sharpen once or twice yearly with regular home use. Cheaper knives with softer steel (HRC 54-56) typically require sharpening every few months. The harder steel means less frequent sharpening overall, though each sharpening session requires more care and time. The trade-off heavily favours harder steel for most users—extended performance between maintenance.
Is this set suitable as a gift?
Yes, the attractive wooden gift box, and distinctive Damascus pattern make this set particularly suitable for gifting. The presentation conveys quality and thoughtfulness appropriate for weddings, housewarmings, retirements, or special occasions. Consider the recipient's knife care habits—this set requires hand washing and proper maintenance. For knife enthusiasts or serious home cooks who appreciate Japanese steel, this makes an excellent gift at accessible pricing compared to premium-brand Damascus sets.
Will the Damascus pattern fade or wear away over time?
No, the Damascus pattern is integral to the blade structure—it results from the 67 layers of steel forged together throughout the blade's thickness. The pattern may become more or less pronounced depending on how the blade is maintained and sharpened, but it won't disappear. Proper care including hand washing, immediate drying, and appropriate sharpening technique will maintain the pattern's visibility throughout the knife's lifetime. Aggressive machine sharpening or harsh chemicals can affect surface appearance, which is why hand care is essential.
What's the warranty on this carving set?
Contact Grunwerg directly for specific warranty details, as coverage varies by product and region. Our own guarantees (No Quibble Returns and Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement for 2 years) provide additional protection beyond manufacturer warranty. If you experience any manufacturing defects or concerns about quality, contact us and we'll work with you to resolve the issue satisfactorily.
Can I sharpen this myself or do I need professional service?
You can sharpen VG-10 Damascus steel yourself if you have experience with whetstones and are comfortable maintaining proper sharpening angles. Use 1000, 3000, and 6000 grit whetstones in progression, maintaining approximately 15 degrees per side. Work patiently—the hard steel removes slowly. If you're uncertain about technique or lack the proper whetstones, professional sharpening services experienced with Japanese steels will deliver excellent results. Many customers use professional services annually whilst maintaining the edge themselves with regular honing between sharpenings.
|
“ Master knife selection with our expert guide. Learn blade types, steel grades, maintenance tips, and find your perfect chef's knife. 50+ years of expertise.” Read more about my views on Kitchen Knives in my article Kitchen Knife Buying Guide  by Andi HealeyArt of Living - Web Manager |
