Steel & hardness: Japanese VG-10 stainless steel with 67-layer Damascus construction · 60 HRC ±1. Unplated Damascus finish.

Handle material: 100% solid natural American walnut. No Pakkawood. Individually shaped and hand-finished.

The Route 83 Signature XL Chef Knife is a versatile, handcrafted knife designed for everyday kitchen and barbecue preparation. Its extended blade provides generous cutting capacity for chopping, slicing and preparing larger quantities of meat, vegetables and herbs. The considered blade shape, balanced weight and generous handle provide accuracy, comfort and control.

The blade is made from high-quality Japanese VG-10 67-layer Damascus steel and heat-treated to 60 HRC ±1. This considered hardness provides a practical balance of sharpness, edge retention and durability. Hand-hammered detailing gives the blade its distinctive character while helping food release during cutting.

The solid natural American walnut handle is individually selected, shaped and finished by hand. Its multidimensional form creates a natural grip between the first and second fingers, providing comfort and control. Natural variations in grain and colour give each handle its own distinctive character.

A stainless-steel end cap adds strength and acts as a counterweight, contributing to the knife’s considered balance from handle to blade. Three-quarter tang construction provides strength and stability without unnecessary handle weight. Every Route 83 knife is handcrafted to consistent standards of blade geometry, construction, balance and finish.

Care

Care: Hand wash with warm water and mild detergent, then dry immediately. Do not soak the knife or put it in a dishwasher. The finished natural wood handle is water-resistant and does not require routine oiling. A suitable food-safe oil may be applied occasionally for appearance if desired; wipe away any excess. Clean around the handle-to-blade junction.

Stainless-steel handle caps add stability, strength and act as a counter weight giving even weight distribution from tip to end.

Weight and handlingApproximate knife weight: 200 g. This is the knife weight, not the presentation box or shipping weight. Handle width, total weight and balance are separate characteristics. Compare this model’s weight and blade length with knives intended for the same task; a fuller grip alone does not make a knife heavy. Comfort also depends on your hand size and preferred grip.

Will the blade chip during barbecue and kitchen prep?

Made for clean, controlled trimming and slicing, with steel and blade geometry selected for practical toughness and lasting sharpness. Chipping is unlikely with correct use. Cutting through bone, twisting, prying or striking hard surfaces can damage the edge.

How do I care for this handle?

Hand wash your solid natural American walnut handle and dry immediately. Do not soak or put it in a dishwasher. Oiling is optional; a light application of food-safe oil can refresh the wood’s appearance.