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This is the core trio set the smallest set that still feels complete. You get a full-size Chef Knife for everyday prep, a Santoku for fast, controlled chopping (especially veggies and boneless proteins), and a nimble Utility Knife for fruit, trimming, sandwiches, and quick detail work.
Steel + Heat Treatment (the 50/50 that matters)
In my experience, performance is 50% steel + 50% heat treatment. This set uses a 10Cr15MoV core (often called a Chinese VG-10 equivalent because the alloy makeup is extremely close) and then Xinzuo backs it up with vacuum cryogenic heat treatment (heat + deep cold). That combination is what delivers what you feel in the kitchen: stable hardness, stronger edge retention, better wear resistance, and consistent results from knife to knife.
Vacuum Cryogenic Heat Treatment process
https://www..com/pages/vacuum-deep-cooling-heat-treatment
Want the deeper breakdown and comparisons?
Read our 10Cr15MoV vs VG-10 guide
https://www..com/blogs/kitchen-knives/types-of-steel-used-in-xinzuo-knives-10cr15comov-chinese-vg10-steel
Third-party proof (Chef Panko)
Chef Panko is a well-known YouTube knife reviewer who has tested 100+ knives. Heres what he said about Xinzuo:
I believe Xinzuo has the potential to be the best, if not already the number one kitchen knife manufacturer in China particularly in terms of quality control, materials, and heat treatment. June 2023 Chef Panko
Source / full review:
https://www.chefpanko.com/xinzuo-hezhen-redefining-knife-manufacturing/
Handle: Linen Micarta (why I use it)
The linen micarta handles on the B38L series are basically modern indestructibleright up there with G-10 and pakkaWoodbut they have a classier, wood-reminiscent feel and stay grippy and comfortable even when your hands are wet.
Robs note: If someone asks me for a first real upgrade set, this Chef + Utility combo is where I startbecause youll actually use both knives constantly.
Hezhen: Real specs. Real heat treat. Real performance.
Standard Returns (30 days)
You have 30 days to return unused items in their original packaging for a full refund of the cost of your product(s).
How to start a return: email me, Rob, The Bamboo Guy, at [email protected], and let me know what you would like to return; I will email you back a return label, Ezzy Peezy.
Hezhen is a brand produced by Xinzuo, a manufacturer known for consistent quality control and clear product specifications. Their focus is simple: transparent materials, real heat treatment, top-quality fit and finish, and knives that perform as they should.