Miyabi Black Chef's Knife 9.4-inch

The Peak of Japanese Knife Engineering: 67 HRC ZDP-189 Micro-Carbide Steel


When standard high-carbon steels reach their limit, the Miyabi Black 9.4-inch (240mm) Chef's Knife begins its reign. This is not a general-purpose tool for the casual cook; it is a precision instrument engineered for those who understand the technical nuances of Japanese metallurgy. At the heart of this blade is an MCD67 micro-carbide powdered steel core, ice-hardened via the Cryodur process to a staggering 67 Rockwell Hardness (HRC). This represents one of the hardest steels available in the culinary world, providing an edge that remains laser-sharp through high-volume prep sessions that would dull a standard German or Japanese blade.


The aesthetic is as formidable as its performance. The core is protected by 132 additional layers of steel, acid-etched to reveal a stunning 'Flower Damascus' pattern. This 240mm (9.4") length is the preferred choice for professional stations, offering the reach necessary for large proteins and heavy vegetable prep while maintaining the balance of a much smaller tool. The blade is finished with a traditional Honbazuke honing, resulting in a 9 to 12-degree edge angle that glides through fiber with zero resistance.


Completing the build is the ergonomic D-shaped handle, crafted from stained Bigleaf Maple Burl. The unique grain of the wood ensures no two knives are identical, while the steel end cap and mosaic pin provide a counter-balance that reduces wrist fatigue during 12-hour shifts. This is a tool that rewards technique and provides the highest level of feedback for the professional saucier or prep lead.


SKU: 1019510

Availability: In stock

$499.95
  • Details

    Product Specs & Technical Highlights

    • Primary SKU: 1019510
    • Model Number: 34401-243
    • Blade Core: ZDP-189 (MCD67) Micro-Carbide Powdered Super Steel
    • Hardness: 67 Rockwell Hardness (HRC); Ice-hardened at -196°C (Cryodur)
    • Construction: 133-Layer Flower Damascus (66 layers per side + core)
    • Edge Geometry: 50/50 Symmetrical Bevel, Honbazuke Honed (9-12° angle)
    • Handle Material: Stained Black Bigleaf Maple Burl Wood
    • Handle Shape: Traditional Japanese 'D-Shape' for ergonomic grip
    • Blade Length: 9.45 in (240mm)
    • Spine Thickness: 2.1mm at the heel
    • Weight: 7.9 oz (227g)
    • Total Length: 14.84 in
    • Origin: Handcrafted in Seki, Japan
    • Maintenance: Hand wash only; sharpen exclusively with high-grit ceramic waterstones.

     

    Practical Application & Chef Feedback

    In a professional kitchen, the 2.1mm spine and 67 HRC core allow for incredibly thin slicing of proteins and delicate vegetables. While standard 58-60 HRC knives require frequent honing, the Miyabi Black can often go days of heavy use before requiring a touch-up on a ceramic rod. Note: The extreme hardness makes the edge brittle compared to softer steels; avoid all contact with bones, frozen foods, or hard plastic cutting boards.

     

    When We Recommend the Miyabi Black Series

    Who it Fits Best

    Professional chefs and serious enthusiasts who have mastered their knife skills and want the absolute limit of edge retention.

    Where it Excels

    Precision slicing, fine dicing (brunoise), and processing large quantities of produce without needing to stop for honing.

    Professional Comparisons

    Stays sharp significantly longer than the Wusthof Ikon (58 HRC) or even the Shun Classic (61 HRC), but requires much more careful handling.

    Chef Feedback

    "The 'D-shape' handle is specifically loved by right-handed chefs for how it 'locks' into the palm during heavy dicing sessions."

    Trade-offs & Considerations

    The dark cladding can show scratches. Make sure to wash this blade with a dish cloth or other soft material, not a hard scrub pad.

    Additional Info

    Blade Length (Inches) 9.4 in.
    Blade Length (mm) 240 mm
    Blade Width (inches) 2.09
    Grind 50/50 Bevel
    Steel Type ZDP-189 (MCD67)
    Rockwell Hardness 67
    Stainless Yes
    Handle Material Bigleaf Maple Burl Wood
    Spine Thickness (mm) 2.1
    Brand Miyabi
    Country of Manufacture Japan
    SKU 1019510
    Manufacturer's Part Number 34401-243
    Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price $626.00

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