Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife

The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife is an intriguing offering from Due Cigni. At $45.99, it’s positioned as an affordable, fixed blade knife suited for various tasks, hinting at culinary uses with its “Sashimi” designation. The natural maple handle adds a touch of class that’s somewhat unexpected at this price point, making it a potentially attractive option for those who appreciate aesthetics alongside functionality.

I needed a dedicated knife for preparing fish during my frequent fishing trips. I’d been using a general-purpose camping knife, which never felt quite right when filleting delicate fish. I was hoping the Due Cigni would offer a more specialized blade profile and comfortable grip for this task.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt surprisingly lightweight, which could be a positive or negative depending on preference. The maple handle had a smooth, almost polished feel, contrasting with the more rugged tactical knives I’m accustomed to handling. The blade had a clean, factory edge, but I noted that the stainless steel felt thinner than some of my other fixed blades.

Compared to my Mora Companion and a Gerber StrongArm, the Due Cigni is noticeably lighter and has a significantly different blade profile. I chose it because I wanted a knife specifically for preparing fish, and the blade shape seemed better suited for that purpose than my other options. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic; it looked the part, but I needed to see how it performed in real-world situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife on a recent fishing trip to the Oregon coast. The primary task was filleting rockfish and salmon, right on the beach after a successful day of angling. It was damp and windy, a typical coastal environment.

The knife performed surprisingly well when filleting the rockfish. The thin blade allowed for clean, precise cuts along the backbone and skin. However, the maple handle became a bit slippery when wet, requiring a firmer grip to maintain control.

There were no immediate issues after the first use, but I noticed some minor discoloration on the blade near the handle. This suggested that the stainless steel might be susceptible to corrosion, requiring careful cleaning and maintenance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, primarily on fishing trips and in the kitchen, the Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife has held up reasonably well. The blade still retains a decent edge, though it requires more frequent sharpening than my higher-end knives. There are also new scratches on the blade from cutting against rocks and the fish-cleaning station.

While the maple handle hasn’t cracked or chipped, it does show some signs of wear, including minor staining from fish oils. Cleaning the knife after each use has become a crucial ritual, as any remaining salt water or fish residue quickly leads to corrosion. Compared to my experiences with more robust knives like the Fallkniven F1, the Due Cigni requires more diligence and is less forgiving of neglect. It performs adequately, but longevity is a concern.

Breaking Down the Features of Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife

Specifications

• The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife has an overall length of 12 7/8 inches. This provides a good amount of reach for larger tasks.
• The blade length is 8 1/4 inches, providing sufficient cutting surface for filleting and other general tasks.
• The blade is made of stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance, albeit likely a lower grade compared to premium stainless steels.
• The handle is crafted from natural maple, offering a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing grip.
• The knife application is a fixed blade, offering superior strength and reliability compared to folding knives.
• The blade finish is stainless steel, which enhances corrosion resistance and provides a clean look.
• The handle color is natural, showcasing the natural beauty of the maple wood.

These specifications matter because they dictate the knife’s overall performance and intended use. The blade length and steel type are critical for cutting ability and durability. The handle material impacts grip and comfort, especially in wet conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife performs reasonably well as a filleting knife, thanks to its long, thin blade. It excels at making precise cuts through fish. However, the blade’s flexibility makes it less suitable for heavier tasks, such as chopping or prying.

The knife’s strength is its ability to create clean fillets. Its weakness is its limited versatility compared to a more robust, all-purpose knife. While it meets basic expectations for a filleting knife, it doesn’t exceed them in any significant way.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife is adequate for its price point. The stainless steel blade feels reasonably sturdy, but the edge retention isn’t exceptional. The maple handle is comfortable in hand, though the lack of texture can make it slippery when wet.

The knife is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. The fixed blade design is straightforward and easy to operate. However, the absence of a finger guard could be a safety concern for inexperienced users.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife should last for several years with moderate use. However, the blade’s susceptibility to corrosion and the handle’s vulnerability to staining require diligent maintenance.

Cleaning and oiling the blade after each use is essential to prevent rust and maintain its cutting ability. The maple handle should also be periodically treated with a wood preservative to protect it from moisture and staining. Sharpening will be needed frequently.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife comes with minimal accessories; it’s essentially just the knife itself in hang packaged. Customization options are limited, as the fixed blade design doesn’t lend itself to modifications like blade swapping or handle replacement.

While aftermarket sheaths are available, there are no readily available upgrades for the blade steel or handle material. This limits the ability to personalize or enhance the knife’s performance beyond its original design.

Pros and Cons of Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife

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Who Should Buy Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife?

The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for amateur anglers who need an affordable, dedicated filleting knife. It is also a good choice for those who value aesthetics and want a knife with a more refined look.

This knife is not suitable for experienced outdoorsmen or professionals who require a more durable and versatile tool. Anyone expecting heavy-duty performance or extreme corrosion resistance should look elsewhere.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge. Regular applications of mineral oil to the handle will also help preserve its appearance and prevent cracking.

Conclusion on Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife

The Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife is a decent value for its price. It’s a specialized tool best suited for filleting fish, and its aesthetic appeal is a plus. However, its limitations in durability and versatility should be considered.

The price is justified for casual users who prioritize affordability and aesthetics over high performance. If you need a dedicated filleting knife and are willing to take care of it, this could be a good option.

I would recommend the Due Cigni Sashimi Maple Handle Fixed Blade Knife with reservations. It’s a capable tool for its intended purpose, but be aware of its limitations. If you’re on a tight budget and need a knife for preparing fish, give it a shot. But if you need something truly bombproof, you’ll need to invest more.