If you’re looking for a knife that feels a bit special and actually does the hard work for you, the Zhen Sakimaru is a cracker.
It’s got that cool, long blade with a slightly curved tip, which makes it perfect for getting clean, single-swipe slices. Even though it looks like something a pro chef would use, it’s actually really easy to handle at home. Because the steel is so high-quality, it stays sharp for ages, meaning you aren't constantly reaching for the sharpener.
It’s brilliant for slicing through meat or fish without tearing it, and it just feels solid and well-balanced in your hand. If you want a knife that looks beautiful on the magnetic rack but is a total workhorse for your Sunday roast or a bit of sashimi, this is a great pick.
I purchased this knife for one of my staff who was constantly borrowing my Nakiri as she loved using it. Lovely little knife, good weight and arrived razor sharp. The blade was a bit deeper than my Japanese blade but still easy to use.
Excellent value for money.
Would definitely buy again.
I chose this specific model/series because it's one of the lightest (160g) and thinnest (1.9mm) in Xinzuo/Hezhen's current lineup.
It honestly exceeded my expectations. The choil/spine are comfortably rounded, the handle and blade are properly aligned, there are zero imperfections.
Recently I've been experimenting with other Chinese-branded kitchen knives, and it's only made me appreciate Xinzuo/Hezhen more (e.g. grind, factory edge).
