Masakage Yuki vs Shimo

[Konrad]

Hi all

Why does the Shimo line command a higher price than the Yuki line? Can someone explain?

 

[JASinIL2006]

I own both in the 240 gyuto and I think the price difference is because the Shimo is a damascus pattern while the Yuki is a fairly simple san mai. Also, Shimo is some of Yu Kurosaki's early work and his stuff seems to command a bit of a higher price.

I'm biased because the Shimo was my first Japanese knife and therefore holds a special spot for me, but I think it's a better blade. I like the geometry better - it seems much lighter, thinner and more nimble than the Yuki - and I think the Shimo is just a better performing knife. I also find the Shimo's octagonal handle to be more comfortable than the oval handle on the Yuki. Both knives are perfectly acceptable, though.

 

[Konrad]

I own both in the 240 gyuto and I think the price difference is because the Shimo is a damascus pattern while the Yuki is a fairly simple san mai. Also, Shimo is some of Yu Kurosaki's early work and his stuff seems to command a bit of a higher price.

I'm biased because the Shimo was my first Japanese knife and therefore holds a special spot for me, but I think it's a better blade. I like the geometry better - it seems much lighter, thinner and more nimble than the Yuki - and I think the Shimo is just a better performing knife. I also find the Shimo's octagonal handle to be more comfortable than the oval handle on the Yuki. Both knives are perfectly acceptable, though.

I too prefer the Shimo line and am patiently waiting for them to get a Nakiri in. lol

 

[Delat]

Damascus is always going to cost more than the equivalent non-damascus variation. Plus Yu Kurosaki is a little better known that Y Kato and can charge a higher price.

I haven’t tried a Y Kato gyuto, but I used to have a Kurosaki gyuto that was pretty great especially for the price.