Deba (Deba Bocho) translates as "thick knife". True to its name, it is a heavy knife with a blade up to 6-8 mm thick. Deba has a single-beveled and was originally created for cutting fish: the thick blade is designed for chopping heads and tails, the narrow tip is for ripping open the belly. In Japan, chefs use deba to cut, fillet and slice fish carcasses in a matter of seconds.
The blade length of a deba knife is usually from 150 to 210 mm. The longer the blade, the thicker it is, and the heavier the knife. Sometimes the weight of a deba reaches a kilogram. Due to its thickness and strength, the knife copes with dense fish and bony parts, but remains sharp enough for filigree work. There is also "Ai-Deba" - a lighter and thinner version, and a compact "Ko-Deba". Both options are suitable for small fish.
All deba knives are equipped with traditional Japanese wa-handles and are usually made of high-carbon steel. Therefore, these knives are not dishwasher safe. Hand wash and dry immediately after use.
In addition to cutting fish, the deba can also be used to cut meat and poultry. Do not use this knife for meat and poultry with bones, the thin cutting edge will only withstand fish bones, and when trying to cut harder bones or frozen foods, it may break.