cia dao

“Basic Models”  knives are made to order in intervals of 8 weeks, or 10 orders, whichever comes first. Ordering places you in queue for a batch knife, the “Basic Models” knives are not stocked. 

These are my “Basic Models Cleavers”, like the “Basic Models” gyutos, santokus, bunka, nakiri and sujihiki they are the most basic and affordable knives I can produce

They feature:

-Burned oak handles from reclaimed wood
-Low, high bevels
-Convex zero grinds, hand sharpened
-Nail flexing edges
-As quenched finishes
-1.6mm blade stock
-Forward balance
-100mm-115mm tall
-AEB-L stainless steel
-Rounded spines and choils
-Weights in the 300g-500g range (the depicted 220mmx110mm weighs 362g)
-Excellent food release
-Cutting ability close to more extensively ground blades
– ~$250 CAD and below price point for most offerings

I have tested the Basic Models Cleavers and I have to say, part of me is a bit irritated at just how well they do considering how rough they are. They aren’t pretty, and they’re not intended to be, and tip cuts aren’t quite as smooth as they would be on blades with more taper, but these are undoubtedly performers.

*I know that cleaver profiles can be somewhat variable, but the one I have chosen for these blades is flat in the central area with a slight upsweep at either end

** The cleavers are only available in AEB-L at the moment

***Basic Models” knives generally feature some dimpling from mechanical straightening.