Masahiro Virgin Carbon 4.75-inch (120mm) Utility Knife

The Purist’s Choice for Surgical Kitchen Precision


The Masahiro Virgin Carbon 120mm Utility Knife (MH13002) is not just a tool; it is a specialized instrument for chefs who prioritize edge geometry and metallurgy above all else. At the heart of this knife is Masahiro's Original Hagane (ZCD-U), a 'virgin' carbon steel containing 1.05% carbon. Unlike mass-market stainless steels, this high-purity alloy is treated to a Rockwell hardness of 61, allowing it to take and hold an edge that feels significantly 'toothier' and more aggressive than its corrosion-resistant counterparts.


This 120mm (4.75 inch) petty is the surgeon’s scalpel of the professional kitchen. Its profile features a more prominent heel than standard Western paring knives, making it uniquely capable of transitioning from delicate hand-peeling and decorative fruit work to light board work like dicing shallots or mincing garlic. The asymmetrical compound grind is specifically engineered for right-handed efficiency, reducing food stiction and providing a smoother passage through dense proteins or fibrous vegetables. Over time, the carbon steel will develop a unique patina—a badge of honor that tells the story of every service it has powered through. For the professional line cook or the dedicated home enthusiast, the MH13002 offers a level of tactile feedback and sharpening ease that stainless steel simply cannot replicate.


SKU: MH13002

Availability: In stock

$63.00
  • Details

    Product Specs & Technical Highlights

    • Primary SKU / Model ID: MH13002 (Manufacturer Part: 13002)
    • Blade Material: Masahiro Original Hagane (ZCD-U) Virgin Carbon Steel
    • Metallurgy: 1.05% Carbon, augmented with Vanadium and Tungsten for carbide stability.
    • Rockwell Hardness: 61 HRC (High-end edge retention).
    • Blade Length: 120mm (4.75 inches).
    • Blade Thickness (Spine): 2.00 mm at the heel.
    • Grind Type: Asymmetrical/Compound (Optimized for right-handed precision and food release).
    • Weight: 70g (Ultra-lightweight for reduced fatigue during extended prep).
    • Handle Construction: Laminated reinforced wood treated with an antibacterial agent for food safety compliance.
    • Maintenance Profile: Non-stainless; requires immediate drying after use to prevent oxidation and encourage healthy patina development.
    • Country of Manufacture: Japan.

    When We Recommend the Masahiro Virgin Carbon 120mm

    Who it Fits Best

    Professional prep cooks and fine-dining sauciers who demand a 'screaming sharp' edge for high-volume delicate tasks like shallot dicing or mushroom fluting.

    Where it Excels

    This tool is unbeatable for 'in-hand' work like peeling citrus or garlic, and 'on-board' precision tasks where a full-sized chef knife is too cumbersome.

    Professional Comparisons

    It is significantly harder and holds a sharper edge than a standard Wusthof paring knife, though it requires more diligent maintenance than a Global stainless petty.

    Chef Feedback

    "Line cooks love the 70g weight; it feels like an extension of the hand during a 4-hour prep session. The antibacterial handle is a critical pro-feature for passing health inspections."

    Trade-offs & Considerations

    Virgin carbon steel is reactive. If you leave it wet on a cutting board for 10 minutes, it will begin to spot. This is a tool for those who respect their equipment and don't mind wiping a blade dry after use.

    Additional Info

    Blade Length (Inches) 4.75 in.
    Blade Length (mm) 120 mm
    Blade Width (inches) 1
    Grind Asymmetrical/Compound
    Steel Type Virgin Carbon
    Rockwell Hardness 61
    Stainless No
    Handle Material Laminated reinforced wood (with antibacterial agent)
    Spine Thickness (mm) 2.00
    Brand Masahiro
    Country of Manufacture Japan
    SKU MH13002
    Manufacturer's Part Number 13002
    Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price No

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