Rolin Knives 205mm Gyuto 51200 Spalted Hackberry

Hand forged mono steel gyuto made from 52100 carbon steel. Features a wide convex grind with a medium-thin edge and strong distal taper that allows for a precise and smooth cutting action with a substantial feel. The rokkaku hanmaru - half hexagon and half circle shaped - handle is made from spalted hackberry. 

Spalted hackberry is not a species of hackberry but is common hackberry that has been allowed to enter into a state of controlled spalting (partial decay) where the fungus that has begun to break down the wood fibers creates high contrast and distinct lines between the pale, creamy, heartwood tones. When the spalting is halted at the correct time, the tight grain structure texture and overall integrity of the wood are not compromised.

All aspects of this knife were meticulously forged, heat-treated, ground, machined, and shaped with an incredible amount of detail and intention by Nick Rolin. Originally from the Bay Area, Nick earned a degree in Sustainable Agriculture from UCSC before becoming a line cook. Nick's blade shapes and styles are inspired by his years in the professional kitchen and by his passion for well made things. After leaving kitchens to bartend in NYC, Nick took a weekend knife making class in 2016. This class sent him down the neverending rabbit hole of knife making, and after making knives for friends and colleagues, the eventual demand led to an inevitable return to the Bay Area in 2022 to make knives full-time.

We were able to test a few of Nick's knives and were impressed not only with the craftsmanship and aesthetics but also the edge performance, cutting feel and sharpenability of the knives. We are lucky to have Nick in our backyard and are proud to be able to introduce his work to our knife community.