Ever see someone use a cheap paring knife to do a full breakdown? I watched a cook break down a case of chickens with just that and a steel. Made my fancy knives feel like overkill. I mean, skill really is the best tool you can have. Kinda makes you want to go back to basics sometimes.
Totally get that feeling. Watching a pro with basic gear is a real eye opener. It puts all the focus on their hands and knowledge, not the shiny thing they're holding. Makes you question how much we rely on fancy stuff to feel skilled. Honestly, that kind of thing is the best reminder to just practice more.
That chicken breakdown likely used a boning knife, not a paring knife. The blade shape and flex are totally different for that kind of work. It's a key detail that changes the skill being shown.