Xinzuo X05Z Zhen Series Utility Knife 140 mm (5.5”) – ZDP-189, 3-Layer

The XINZUO Zhen Series Utility Knife 140mm (5.5”) elevates everyday prep with one of the most advanced blade steels available: ZDP-189. This nimble knife is sized perfectly for tasks where precision is key—peeling fruit, trimming vegetables, and slicing smaller proteins—offering cutting performance that far exceeds standard kitchen cutlery.

At the heart of this blade is ZDP-189 powder metallurgy stainless steel, manufactured by Hitachi Metals in Japan. Hardened to an impressive 65-67 HRC, this steel is renowned for its extreme hardness and unmatched edge retention. The ultra-fine carbide structure allows it to take a razor-sharp edge and hold it significantly longer than traditional steels, meaning less frequent sharpening for the user.

The blade features a 3-layer laminated construction. The ultra-hard ZDP-189 core is protected by softer stainless steel outer layers, which add durability and toughness to the blade structure. The edge is hand-sharpened to a precise 15° angle per side, ensuring effortless slicing capability. The blade thickness is approximately 2.0mm, providing a lightweight and agile feel.

The handle is crafted from North American Maple wood, accented with a white buffalo horn bolster. The octagonal shape is a classic Japanese design that provides a comfortable, secure grip and ambidextrous control. Product specifications include a total length of 275mm, a blade length of 137mm, a handle length of 138mm, and a net weight of 89g.

Care instructions:

Hand wash only. Although ZDP-189 is a stainless steel, its extremely high carbon content (3%) means it should still be kept clean and dry to prevent potential spotting. Wash and dry immediately after use. Never use in a dishwasher.

Due to the extreme hardness (65-67 HRC), the edge can be brittle if misused. Avoid twisting, prying, or cutting into hard objects like bones, frozen foods, or nut shells to prevent chipping. Use on quality wooden or soft plastic cutting boards.