Rolin Knives 175mm Small Chef 52100 Spalted Tamarind

Hand forged mono steel gyuto made from 52100 carbon steel. Features a wide flat grind with a medium-thin edge and strong distal taper that allows for a precise and smooth cutting action with a substantial feel. The octagonal handle is made from a single piece of spalted tamarind wood.

Spalted tamarind is not a species of tamarind wood but is common tamarind 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, treated, ground, machined, worked, shaped and fit with an incredible amount of detail and intention by Nick Rolin. Originally from the Bay Area, Nick’s blade shapes and styles are inspired by his years as a fine-dining line cook that preceded his time spent in NYC as a bartender after earning a degree in Sustainable Agriculture from UCSC. After a weekend knife making class in 2016, Nick began making knives for friends and the eventual demand lead to returning to the Bay Area in 2022 to make knives full-time.

We have been able to test a few of Nick’s knives and have been 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 represent his work in our knife community.