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 Boning Knife is handcrafted in-house for precise boning, trimming and slicing. Its fine blade geometry and perfectly centred balance point provide accuracy, control and easy manoeuvrability. Its 20.5 cm (8¼-inch) blade is designed for removing fat, trimming larger cuts and working cleanly around meat and joints.

The blade is made from Japanese VG-10 steel with 67-layer Damascus construction 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 shaped and finished in-house. Its multi-dimensional profile is shaped to fit naturally in the hand, creating a secure grip between the first and second fingers. This makes it easier to hold and control than a flatter handle profile, particularly when hands are greasy or oily. Research on black-walnut surfaces has found antibacterial effects under some test conditions, with results depending on bacterial species, moisture and surface treatment. This does not establish that a finished knife handle disinfects itself. Natural variations in grain and colour give each handle its own distinctive character.

A three-quarter tang and stainless-steel end cap counterweight create a perfectly centred balance point without unnecessary weight. Every Route 83 knife is manufactured, assembled and hand-finished in-house to consistent standards of blade geometry, construction, balance and finish. It is not assembled from mass-produced or outsourced knife components.

CareHand wash with warm water and mild detergent, then dry immediately. Do not place the knife in a dishwasher. The finished natural wood handle is water-resistant and does not require oiling; a suitable food-safe oil may be applied occasionally for appearance if desired.

SpecificationsBlade length: 20.5 cm (8¼ inches). Overall length: 35 cm. Knife weight: 168 g. Supplied in a premium wood storage box.

Handle hygieneWash the handle as well as the blade, dry immediately and avoid soaking. Check for damage or gaps that could retain food. Wood research does not replace normal cleaning or establish product certification.Research: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envadv.2023.100416

Weight and handlingApproximate knife weight: 168 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.