Xin Cutlery XinCore 8.5'' Chef Kitchen Knife Black G10, Damascus VG10 by Ostap Hel (XC126)

The XinCore 8.5" Chef Black G10, Damascus is one of the most recognizable designs in the Xin Cutlery lineup and represents a conscious combination of utilitarian design and the real-world demands of intensive kitchen work. The XinCore series was designed as a line of knives in which aesthetics are subordinated to function, and form acts as a tool to communicate readiness for a demanding environment. It's an approach close to the philosophy of kitchens treated as workspaces, where control, repetitive movements and resilient design matter. The designer is Ostap Hel, known for his consistent approach to ergonomics and technical, clear geometry. The silhouette of the knife is resolute, with a clear separation of the working and grip zones, reinforcing its tool-like character. Blade of san-mai construction is based on a core of VG10 steel , sheathed with 67-layer damask, which provides very good edge stability, wear resistance and high cutting precision. The chef profile provides high versatility and allows efficient performance of both high-speed linear cuts and rocking work. The flat grind used creates a flat, predictable geometry that is conducive to blade control and even guidance during dynamic movements. The titanium nitride-based coating gives the Blade a distinctly technical, almost tactical character, while increasing surface resistance and reducing product adhesion. The G10 composite Handle is designed as a component for maximum control under intense use. Its ergonomic profile supports natural hand positioning and allows for a secure grip even with wet hands or prolonged use. Carefully engineered surfaces and clear grip lines promote maneuverability and quick blade response to hand movements. The XinCore XC126 is a tool for users who treat the kitchen like a working environment - dynamic, demanding and with no room for randomness. It's a knife designed to work continuously, resiliently and in full subordination to function.

Ostap Hel - a talented Polish knifemaker and designer. His designs are based on the fundamentals of geometry, smooth transitions and the concept of “golden proportion.” He is not afraid to experiment with new shapes and ideas to suit the unique style and production capabilities of the company he designs for.

VG-10 - a grade of high-carbon stainless alloy tool steel created specifically for making premium blades and knives. The steel recipe was developed in Japan by Takefu Special Steel co. Ltd, which is headquartered in Takefu, Fukui Prefecture. Initially used in the production of kitchen knives, it quickly found use as an excellent material for utility blades. Due to import restrictions, almost all knives made of VG-10 steel are produced in Seki, Japan.

San-mai is a special three-layer blade construction, in which the hard core that forms the cutting edge is “wrapped” with two more flexible layers of steel. This combination makes it possible to achieve very good sharpness and its long retention, while at the same time making the blade more resistant to breakage and damage compared to a classic single-steel wedge. It is a solution derived from Japanese blacksmithing traditions, valued both for its functional properties and the characteristic transition drawing between the core and outer layers visible on the Blade.

Blade - with chef profile designed as a working blade for intensive kitchen use. The pronounced belly of the cutting edge supports smooth rocking motions and fast working speed, while the stable ridge line ensures control when working under pressure. The flat grind used guarantees a flat, clear geometry that promotes efficient cutting and predictable blade behavior during dynamic changes in direction of movement. The multi-layered damascus structure, finished using the acid-etched method, not only emphasizes the knife's craftsmanship, but also promotes blade stability and even stress distribution during use. The overall design has been developed with an emphasis on edge stability, smooth cutting and high control under heavy use.

Handle - made of G10 composite provides high resistance to moisture, temperature changes and intensive use, maintaining rigidity and grip in demanding kitchen conditions. Handle profile is designed to guide the hand in the natural axis of the blade, improving precision and safety of work. Carefully designed curves and appropriate surface texture reduce slippage and reduce hand fatigue during long slicing sessions. The balance between the Handle and Blade promotes stable, predictable knife handling, making the handle durable, functional and fully subservient to the utility role of the tool.

Technical data:

Product number: XC126
Product name: XinCore 8.5" Chef Black G10, Damascus

Overall length: 360.0 mm / 14.2"
Blade length: 215.0 mm / 8.46"
Blade thickness: 3.0 mm / 0.12"
Handle length: 133.0 mm / 5.24"
Handle thickness: n.d.
Weight: 230.0 g / 8.11 oz

Blade material: VG-10 / 67-layer Damascus
Blade hardness: 60-62 HRC
Blade grind: Flat
Blade finish: Acid etched

Handle material: G10
Handle finish color: Black

Sheath (holster): None
Additional accessories: Blade guard

Designer: Ostap Hel
Brand: Xin Cutlery
Manufacturer: Bestech Knives
Country of origin: P.R.C.

Developed by the Sharg® company