{"title":"Father’s Day Gift Ideas","description":"\u003cp\u003eDads are hard to shop for because they usually claim they don’t need anything. But a sharp Japanese knife is different. It feels special, looks impressive and makes everyday cooking more enjoyable, even if his signature dish is still steak and potatoes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWin #1 Child this Father’s Day.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"zdp-189-bunka-silver","title":"ZDP-189 Bunka Silver 190mm (7.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003eZDP-189 Bunka was designed in harmony with our values (excellence, quality, and reliability), in line with those originating from the steadfast Japanese tradition. We also devoted special attention to certain aesthetics inspired by Japanese mysticism and a respectful attitude to tradition, nature, raw materials, the constituent elements, and the final product – in short, the quintessential values of Japanese culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\" title=\"The shape of the blade is called Bunka\"\u003eshape of the blade is called Bunka\u003c\/a\u003e which means \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eculture\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e in Japanese. Bunka makes for a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ehighly versatile knife\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e suitable for cutting vegetables, meat, and fish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003cstrong\u003eBunka design\u003c\/strong\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt has a flexible profile that is \u003cstrong\u003ewide enough at the handle\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ea gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either \u003cstrong\u003elong or short cuts\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ea \u003cstrong\u003eflat back side\u003c\/strong\u003e of the blade,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eand a thin pointy \u003cstrong\u003ereverse tanto tip for precise cuts\u003c\/strong\u003e and carvings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe angle of the spine rapidly changes to meet the tip, which is referred to as a »\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eK-Tip\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e«. Besides looking badass, this shape allows the user precision and makes getting to the hard-to-get-places a bit easier.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca title=\"Japanse powder steel\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\" title=\"Lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eBunka has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for the finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBunka Silver was fitted a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa handle. The wooden handle is made of walnut wood with an octagonal shape, so it will fit equally well into the hands of right- or left-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31821025214552,"sku":"03011633091","price":268.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/Yoshida_Hamono_ZDP-189_Bunka_Silver03011633091_1.jpg?v=1756725354"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-black-180mm","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cp\u003eZDP-189 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\") is the one of the knives we designed with a help of the skillful blacksmith Osamu-san from Yoshida Hamono. The design is a result of years of our experience with Japanese knives. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/santoku-knives-multi-purpose\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSantoku\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e knife, originating from Japan, is a versatile and multipurpose kitchen tool commonly found in Japanese households. It excels at various cutting and chopping tasks on the cutting board. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its rich heritage and versatile design, the Santoku knife is an indispensable tool for any kitchen, catering to a wide range of cutting needs with its three virtues.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \"Santoku\" derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Santoku knife is divided into three distinct parts. The tip is designed for intricate work, allowing for precise cuts. The cutting edge serves general cutting purposes, accommodating a range of tasks. Lastly, the heel of the knife is perfect for heavy-duty chopping.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003eSantoku Black has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Santoku was fitted a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa. The wooden handle is made of Walnut wood with an octagonal shape, so it will fit equally well into the hands of right- or left-handed users.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31821054312536,"sku":"03010810094","price":240.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Yoshida_Hamono_ZDP-189_Santoku_Black.jpeg?v=1756725352"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-silver","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Tsuchime 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Tsuchime 210mm (8.3\") is a perfect knife for versatile use for chefs who prefer medium size multi-purpose knife, suitable to cut meat, fish and vegetables. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003cstrong\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#gyuto\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is the most versatile and useful blade shape in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel ZDP-189 contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. Heat treatment produces steel with a hardness of \u003cstrong\u003e65-67 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe pure carbon content of ZDP-189 makes it one of the most edge retentive alloy in the knife industry. What makes the ZDP-189 steel remarkable is that it can be hardened up to HRC 65-67 without any problems of chipping. Manufacturing processes of this steel make it one of the toughest steels available on the market today. Serious users and professional chefs prefer to use knives made from ZDP-189 steel because of its superior cutting performance and longer edge retention.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel is laminated, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel and covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time: its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003eA small batch of ZDP-189 gyuto silver blades from the Yoshida Hamono smithy has been finished with delicate hammer marks, creating a subtle tsuchime finish that embodies the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that finds beauty in imperfections, asymmetry, and authenticity, valuing uniqueness in things that are not considered traditionally flawless.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Gyuto was fitted a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa. \u003c\/span\u003eThe wooden handle is made of Walnut wood and has an octagonal shape, which fits well into the hands of both left- and right-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy in 2016.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31821047529560,"sku":"03010312093","price":276.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189GyutoSilverTsuchime210mm_03010312093_1.jpg?v=1756725349"},{"product_id":"yoshida-ryo-deba-kuro-uchi-170mm","title":"Yoshida Ryo-Deba Kuro-uchi 170mm (6.7\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYoshida Ryo-Deba Kuro-uchi 170mm is a heavy, thicker classic Japanese knife for rougher tasks, such as cutting fish, chicken and also for filleting.\u003c\/span\u003e Kuro-uchi series knives are traditional Japanese rustic knives. Its price is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. It is suitable for the first purchase of a traditional Japanese knife. The blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade needs some extra care. After the use rinse it well and dry it. The name of kuro-uchi refers to the final look of the blade, which is unprocessed on the top and has already developed dark patina, which protects the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi Deba has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel grind\u003c\/strong\u003e, it's not a single bevel like most deba knives, so this one can be used by both right- and left-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe handle is made in Magnolia wood with a plastic ferrule. The handle does \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e have the red sticker applied to it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":38494741129,"sku":"03010125089","price":120.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Yoshida_Hamono_Kuro-uchi_Deba.jpeg?v=1513439748"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-210mm-black","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Black 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Black\u003c\/span\u003e is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade shape of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/gyuto-knives-chefs-knife\"\u003egyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is essentially a Japanese version of the chef's knife, making this knife suitable for preparing large quantities of vegetables and meat. The length of 210 mm is optimal for everyday versatile use, whether you are a home cook or a professional chef. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eA pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca title=\"Japanse powder steel\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\" title=\"Lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eThis knife has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGyuto Black was fitted a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa handle. The wooden handle is made of walnut wood with an octagonal shape, so it will fit equally well into the hands of right- or left-handed users.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31821030129752,"sku":"03010312092","price":272.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Yoshida_Hamono_ZDP-189_Gyuto_Black_03010312092.jpeg?v=1756725346"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-kiritsuke-black-240mm","title":"ZDP-189 Kiritsuke Black 240mm (9.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZDP-189 Kiritsuke Black 240mm (9.5\")\u003c\/span\u003e is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eZDP-189 Kiritsuke Black\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis a\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003elonger and larger brother\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eof our bestseller\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/collections\/japanese-knives\/products\/zdp-189-bunka-black\"\u003eZDP-189 Bunka Black\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKiritsuke knives have a special place in the Japanese (strict) kitchen hierarchy. Japanese traditions only allow the Executive Chef to wield this knife. But since most of us reside outside of Japan, we can kind of omit the strict rules and enjoy this multi-purpose chef's knife in our home kitchens too! Kiritsuke knives are hybrids between the traditional Japanese knife Yanagiba (slicer knife, mostly used for sushi) and the Usuba (knife specialized to cut vegetables), meaning they can be used for all sorts of tasks in the kitchen, from making sashimi, slicing through ribeye, to chopping veggies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough traditionally kiritsuke knives are single bevel, Yoshida ground this one on both sides (double bevel) to cater to the needs of Western users. This knife can be a great alternative to the Gyuto knives, however due to its straight edge (very little belly curve), Kiritsuke won't rock through cuts as the Gyuto does.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003eThis knife has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKiritsuke Black was fitted a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa handle. The wooden handle is made of walnut wood with an octagonal shape, so it will fit equally well into the hands of right- or left-handed users.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":20584883257432,"sku":"03012116782","price":352.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189_Kiritsuke_Black_240mm_03012116782_1_new.jpg?v=1756725343"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-kiritsuke-black-240mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Kiritsuke Black 240mm (9.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Each batch of ZDP-189 Kiritsuke blades is slightly different, as every piece is individually hand-forged. The current batch comes without hammer marks, featuring a flat, pattern-free finish. Because the blades are made by hand, minor differences in texture, tone, and detail are normal—and part of what makes each blade unique.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Kiritsuke blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with an \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/kiritsuke-knives-chefs-knife\/products\/zdp-189-kiritsuke-black-240mm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eoctagonal handle in walnut wood\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eKiritsuke is a multi-purpose, Japanese kitchen knife with blade shape that is a hybrid of the Yanagiba (slicer knife, mostly used for sushi) and the Usuba (a specialized knife for cutting vegetables). It is intended for chefs who have prior experience with Japanese knives. You can use it for various tasks but it performs best when you cut meat or chop larger amounts of vegetables. The colour of the blade is dark which is the reason why this look is also called Kuro-uchi finish – the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. The hand-forged blade bears visible signs of being pounded with a hammer. This doesn’t only give it a beautiful, rustic finish but also prevents food sticking to its surface.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of ZDP-189 steel, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSteel is laminated, which entails that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time; its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eZDP-189 Kiritsuke is the pick of the bunch as regards what one desires in a kitchen knife and is made of steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC that will ensure fine, long-lasting sharpness even by Japanese standards! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Kiritsuke blade knife is manufactured at the smithy of Yoshida Hamono in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33194150756440,"sku":"03012116975","price":308.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/6897D780-1D6E-4B3F-84BD-806AF334CC28.jpg?v=1756725335"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-black-180mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Santoku black blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/zdp-189-santoku-black-180mm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean octagonal handle in walnut wood\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \"Santoku\" derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Santoku knife is divided into three distinct parts. The tip is designed for intricate work, allowing for precise cuts. The cutting edge serves general cutting purposes, accommodating a range of tasks. Lastly, the heel of the knife is perfect for heavy-duty chopping.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca title=\"Japanse powder steel\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\" title=\"Lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eSantoku Black has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33194192470104,"sku":"03010810989","price":200.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/ZDP-189SantokuBlack180mm-blade.jpg?v=1756725333"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-black-210mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Black 210mm (8.3\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e The ZDP-189 Gyuto blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with an\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/products\/zdp-189-gyuto-210mm-black\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eoctagonal handle in walnut wood\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 210mm Gyuto design will mostly cater to the needs of chefs who prefer a medium-sized, multi-purpose knife for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables. The color of the blade is dark which is the reason this look is also called Kuro-uchi finish – the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. The hand-forged blade bears visible signs of being pounded with a hammer. This doesn’t only give it a beautiful, rustic finish but also prevents food from sticking to its surface.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade shape of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/gyuto-knives-chefs-knife\"\u003egyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e is essentially a Japanese version of the chef's knife, making this knife suitable for preparing large quantities of vegetables and meat. The length of 210 mm is optimal for everyday versatile use, whether you are a home cook or a professional chef. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eA pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003eThis knife has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33194222977112,"sku":"03010312965","price":232.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Zdp-189gyutoblackblade210mm_1.jpg?v=1756725331"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-bunka-silver-190mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Bunka Silver 190mm (7.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Bunka Silver blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/zdp-189-bunka-silver\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean octagonal handle in walnut wood\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eZDP-189 Bunka was designed in harmony with our values (excellence, quality, and reliability), in line with those originating from the steadfast Japanese tradition. We also devoted special attention to certain aesthetics inspired by Japanese mysticism and a respectful attitude to tradition, nature, raw materials, the constituent elements, and the final product – in short, the quintessential values of Japanese culture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"The shape of the blade is called Bunka\" href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\"\u003eshape of the blade is called Bunka\u003c\/a\u003e which means \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eculture\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e in Japanese. Bunka makes for a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ehighly versatile knife\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e suitable for cutting vegetables, meat, and fish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003cstrong\u003eBunka design\u003c\/strong\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIt has a flexible profile that is \u003cstrong\u003ewide enough at the handle\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ea gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either \u003cstrong\u003elong or short cuts\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ea \u003cstrong\u003eflat back side\u003c\/strong\u003e of the blade,\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eand a thin pointy \u003cstrong\u003ereverse tanto tip for precise cuts\u003c\/strong\u003e and carvings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe angle of the spine rapidly changes to meet the tip, which is referred to as a »\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eK-Tip\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e«. Besides looking badass, this shape allows the user precision and makes getting to the hard-to-get-places a bit easier.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003eBunka has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for the finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eHandles are in different shades of brown, from dark brown to light brown. Therefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33199444066392,"sku":"03011633990","price":228.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Zdp-189Bunkasilverblade190mm_2.jpg?v=1756725328"},{"product_id":"kuro-uchi-ajikiri-100mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Ajikiri SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 100mm (3.9\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Yoshida Ajikiri SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 100mm (3.9\") blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-ajikiri-100mm\" title=\"Kuro-uchi Ajikiri\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean oval handle in magnolia wood.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi Ajikiri is a small kitchen knife, suitable for all sorts of cutting tasks. In Japan it is mostly used for cutting smaller fish. Kuro-uchi series knives are traditional Japanese rustic knives. Its price is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. It is suitable for the first purchase of a traditional Japanese knife. The blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra care. After the use rinse it well and dry it. The name of kuro-uchi refers to the final look of the blade, which is unprocessed on the top and has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33663460999256,"sku":"030107321080","price":44.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Kuro-uchiAjikiri_030107321080.jpg?v=1746439434"},{"product_id":"kuro-uchi-utility-175mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Utility SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 175mm (6.9\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Kuro-uchi Utility 175mm (6.9\") blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately, so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi Utility is a mid-sized kitchen knife suitable for all sorts of cutting tasks. Kuro-uchi series knives are traditional Japanese rustic knives. Its price is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. It is suitable for the first purchase of a traditional Japanese knife. The blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra care. After the use, rinse it well and dry it. The name of kuro-uchi refers to the final look of the blade, which is unprocessed on the top and has already developed dark patina, which protects the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33663475712088,"sku":"030111311081","price":56.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Kuro-uchiUtility175-REZILO_030111311081.jpg?v=1754561889"},{"product_id":"kuro-uchi-santoku-funayuki-155mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Santoku Funayuki SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 155mm (6.1\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Yoshida Santoku Funayuki Kuro-uchi 155mm (6.1\") blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with \u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi Ajikiri\" href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-ajikiri-100mm\" data-mce-href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-ajikiri-100mm\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ean oval handle in magnolia wood.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi Ajikiri is a small kitchen knife, suitable for all sorts of cutting tasks. In Japan it is mostly used for cutting smaller fish. Kuro-uchi series knives are traditional Japanese rustic knives. Its price is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. It is suitable for the first purchase of a traditional Japanese knife. The blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra care. After the use rinse it well and dry it. The name of kuro-uchi refers to the final look of the blade, which is unprocessed on the top and has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33709093748824,"sku":"030108341079","price":56.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/KurouchiSantokuFunayuk_030108341079.jpg?v=1746439429"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-silver-210mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Silver 210mm (8.3\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Gyuto blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. The knife is also available with an \u003ca href=\"\/products\/zdp-189-gyuto-210mm-black\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eoctagonal handle in walnut wood\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Tsuchime 210mm (8.3\") is a perfect knife for versatile use for chefs who prefer medium size multi-purpose knife, suitable to cut meat, fish and vegetables. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003cstrong\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#gyuto\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is the most versatile and useful blade shape in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel ZDP-189 contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. Heat treatment produces steel with a hardness of \u003cstrong\u003e65-67 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe pure carbon content of ZDP-189 makes it one of the most edge retentive alloy in the knife industry. What makes the ZDP-189 steel remarkable is that it can be hardened up to HRC 65-67 without any problems of chipping. Manufacturing processes of this steel make it one of the toughest steels available on the market today. Serious users and professional chefs prefer to use knives made from ZDP-189 steel because of its superior cutting performance and longer edge retention.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel is laminated, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel and covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time: its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003eA small batch of ZDP-189 gyuto silver blades from the Yoshida Hamono smithy has been finished with delicate hammer marks, creating a subtle tsuchime finish that embodies the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi. Wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic philosophy that finds beauty in imperfections, asymmetry, and authenticity, valuing uniqueness in things that are not considered traditionally flawless.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy in 2016.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33733792956504,"sku":"030103121076","price":236.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/ZDP-189gyutosilver030103121076_1.jpg?v=1756725320"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-bunka-black-190mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Bunka Black 190mm (7.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe ZDP-189 Bunka Black blade is available without a handle. This is your chance to make your own handle or order it separately so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWith its typical functionality, the Bunka Bano-Bocho (文化 万能-包丁) design allows for a versatile use in Western cuisine. It has a flexible profile that is wide enough at the handle, a gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either long or short cuts, a flat back side of the blade for chopping, and a thin tip for precise work with food. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi finish, the unprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. The knife bears visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful finish and also prevents food from sticking to the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of ZDP-189 steel, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe steel is laminated, which entails that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time, its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eZDP-189 Bunka embodies the cream of the crop as regards what one desires in a kitchen knife and is made of steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC that will ensure fine, long-lasting sharpness even by Japanese standards! \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of Yoshida Hamono in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eTherefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39277097189464,"sku":"030116331075","price":224.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Zdp-189BunkaBlackBLADE030116331075_1_1.jpg?v=1756725318"},{"product_id":"kuro-uchi-nakiri-takefu-165mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Nakiri Takefu SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 165mm (6.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"111\" data-end=\"419\" class=\"\"\u003eA classic Japanese vegetable knife with a straight, tall profile that’s made for fast, precise chopping. Compared to the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-nakiri-kyusyu-165mm-blade\"\u003eKyusu model\u003c\/a\u003e, the Takefu blade is 4 mm wider and has no upward curve at the tip—giving it maximum contact with the cutting board for clean, efficient cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eThis blade is available without a handle. Now is your chance to make your own handle or \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-blades-and-handles\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eorder it separately\u003c\/a\u003e, so you can put together a one-of-a-kind knife that is perfectly suited to your taste and needs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-end=\"960\" data-start=\"591\"\u003ePart of our \u003cstrong data-end=\"623\" data-start=\"603\"\u003eKuro-uchi series\u003c\/strong\u003e, the Takefu blade has a traditional, rustic look and offers \u003cstrong data-end=\"705\" data-start=\"684\"\u003eexceptional value\u003c\/strong\u003e for a hand-forged knife. It's made from \u003cstrong data-end=\"768\" data-start=\"746\"\u003eSUJ-2 carbon steel\u003c\/strong\u003e with a hardness of \u003cstrong data-end=\"801\" data-start=\"788\"\u003e63–64 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing impressive edge retention and sharpness. At the same time, it’s easy to resharpen—ideal even for first-time buyers of a traditional Japanese knife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-end=\"1194\" data-start=\"962\"\u003eThe blade's upper part is left unpolished in the \u003cstrong data-end=\"1031\" data-start=\"1011\"\u003ekuro-uchi finish\u003c\/strong\u003e, where a dark patina develops over time, giving each knife a unique look and added protection against rust. Just be sure to rinse and dry it thoroughly after use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1196\" data-end=\"1289\" class=\"\"\u003ePerfect for: slicing, chopping, and prepping all kinds of vegetables with precision and ease.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39277334134872,"sku":"030106101083","price":72.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Kuro-uchiNakiriTakefu165mmblade_030106101083.jpg?v=1746439424"},{"product_id":"hap-40-petty-black-135mm-blade","title":"HAP-40 Petty Black 135mm (5.3\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Petty Black 135mm (5.3\") is a small kitchen knife from our HAP-40 series which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWith this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Petty Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe shape of the blade allows for work on the cutting board, as well as for the in-hand use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePetty or utility knife is basically a smaller version of gyuto or chef's knife, intended for all those smaller tasks where larger and wider knives are deemed unwieldy. A must-have in every kitchen, this small general-purpose knife is used for peeling and slicing fruit and vegetables, while its compact size and a relatively narrow blade also makes it very nimble and thus perfect for filleting fish, cutting poultry, slicing smaller pieces of dry meats and trimming meat. The blade is 135mm (5.3\") long.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis knife is without a handle, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): Hitachi’s HAP-40 steel that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible 68 HRC, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\" data-mce-href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39277574127704,"sku":"030107401089","price":164.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/ZDP-189PettyBlack135mm-blade_2.jpg?v=1756725316"},{"product_id":"hap-40-gyuto-black-210mm-blade","title":"HAP-40 Gyuto Black 210mm (8.3\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black 210mm (8.3\") is a multi-purpose knife from our HAP-40 series which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWith this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe length of the blade (210mm \/ 8.3\") allows for efficient work even with larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It can be used with a variety of different cutting techniques to take on a wide range of kitchen tasks. \u003cspan\u003eGyuto stands for “beef sword” in Japanese and was initially used to cut meat. Today, gyuto is one of the most indispensable knives in a kitchen and can do just about everything, obviously also cut a large chunk of beef.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eThis blade is available without a handle\u003c\/span\u003e, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): Hitachi’s HAP-40 steel that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible 68 HRC, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600134062168,"sku":"030103121093","price":244.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/HAP-40Gyuto210mm-REZILO_030103121093_1.jpg?v=1756725308"},{"product_id":"hap-40-wide-gyuto-black-240mm-blade","title":"HAP-40 Wide Gyuto Black 240mm (9.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eHAP-40 Wide Gyuto Black 240mm (9.5\") is our second all-rounder made of powder steel that we designed in collaboration with the Japanese master blacksmith Osamu-san from the Yoshida Hamono smithy. With the HAP-40 series, we fused an optimal blade shape that matches the versatile nature of Western cuisine, Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Wide Gyuto Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe wide blade at the handle allows for comfortable (and lengthy) work with either right or left hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade is perfect for scooping food from the kitchen board.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe curved belly is designed for chopping larger amounts of veg.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe length of the blade (240mm \/ 9.5\") allows for efficient work even with larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with 68 HRC.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. Wide Gyuto, however, has a little twist to its shape: with a pronounced curved belly and a very wide blade, it sets itself apart from traditional Japanese blades and is suited to Western cutting and chopping techniques. The standard gyuto shape thus transforms into a blade that looks like a deba but is readily used for precision cutting, where you need really thin cuts (this makes it unsuitable for cutting through bones or making more robust cuts). A slight belly curve makes it great for rocking cutting technique, while the pronounced tip, triangular design and an enviable length (240mm \/ 9.5\") will make quick work of larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis knife is \u003cb\u003ewithout a handle\u003c\/b\u003e so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): Hitachi’s HAP-40 steel that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has a minimal content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible 68 HRC, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBlacksmiths counter the brittleness of material with special composition of the knife. In the case of this HAP-40 Wide Gyuto, Osamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esan-mai\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “sandwich”) method. A layer of the core steel (HAP-40) is laminated between two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003eChef and entrepreneur J. Hartley had this to say after using the knife: \u003cem\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The HAP-40 is an unusual knife. It's large, but I personally enjoy having two knives in one. The larger heel and straighter edge handle all manner of slicing and cutting, and the smaller tip end is great for more detailed work. It's unusual in that it's unbalanced, weighted toward the tip, but I have enjoyed that as for such a large knife it just naturally wants to fall into the cut and therefore make it an easier, smoother process. The fact it looks stunning and is sharp as shit doesn't hurt!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600297312344,"sku":"030103161094","price":328.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40WideGyutoBlack240mm-blade_030103161094_1.jpg?v=1756725304"},{"product_id":"hap-40-santoku-black-180mm-blade","title":"HAP-40 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\") is a kitchen knife from our HAP-40 series which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy. It will become your indispensable vegetable chopper. With this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Santoku Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIts shape is designed for a speedy chopping of greens on a kitchen board.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAllows easy, simple cutting technique also for inexperienced cooks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSantoku is a universal knife that excels at all types of cutting and chopping tasks on a cutting board. The Japanese word \u003ci\u003esantoku\u003c\/i\u003e roughly translates to “knife of three virtues” (\u003ci\u003esan\u003c\/i\u003e means “three”) and may refer to the wide array of ingredients that the knife can handle (meat, fish and vegetables) or to the tasks it can perform (slicing, chopping and dicing).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis knife is without the handle, so you can fit your own handle. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): Hitachi’s HAP-40 steel that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible 68 HRC, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600316874840,"sku":"030108101091","price":204.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/HAP-40Santoku180mm-REZILO_030108101091_1.jpg?v=1756725301"},{"product_id":"hap-40-bunka-black-190mm-blade","title":"HAP-40 Bunka Black 190mm (7.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Bunka Black 190mm (7.5\") is a multi-purpose knife from our HAP-40 series which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy. With this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Bunka Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWide blade at the handle allows for comfortable (and lengthy) work with either right or left hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gentle belly is suited to either long or short cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe heel of the blade is straight and intended for chopping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" target=\"_blank\" data-mce-href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\"\u003eBunka design\u003c\/a\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine. It has a flexible profile that is wide enough at the handle, a gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either long or short cuts, a flat back side of the blade, and a thin tip for precise work with food.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis knife is without the handle, so you can fit your own handle. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): Hitachi’s HAP-40 steel that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible 68 HRC, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\" data-mce-style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\" data-mce-style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39600359047256,"sku":"030116291092","price":228.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/HAP-40Bunka190mm-REZILO-030116331075.jpg?v=1756725299"},{"product_id":"yoshida-ai-deba-kuro-uchi-170mm","title":"Yoshida Ai-Deba Kuro-uchi 170mm (6.7\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKuro-uchi Deba is a heavy Japanese knife for rougher tasks, such as cutting fish, chicken and also for filleting.\u003c\/span\u003e Kuro-uchi series knives are traditional Japanese rustic knives. Its price is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. It is suitable for the first purchase of a traditional Japanese knife. The blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade needs some extra care. After the use rinse it well and dry it. The name of kuro-uchi refers to the final look of the blade, which is unprocessed on the top and has already developed dark patina, which protects the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKuro-uchi Deba has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel grind\u003c\/strong\u003e, it's not a single bevel like most deba knives, so this one can be used by both right- and left-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe handle is made in Magnolia wood with a plastic ferrule. The handle does \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e have the red sticker applied to it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40164039262296,"sku":"03010125102","price":88.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/products\/Yoshida_Hamono_Kuro-uchi_Deba.jpg?v=1667569756"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-silver-migaki-210mm-8-3","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Migaki 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Migaki 210mm (8.3\") is a perfect knife for versatile use for chefs who prefer medium size multi-purpose knife, suitable to cut meat, fish and vegetables. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003cstrong\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#gyuto\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is the most versatile and useful blade shape in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel ZDP-189 contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. Heat treatment produces steel with a hardness of \u003cstrong\u003e65-67 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe pure carbon content of ZDP-189 makes it one of the most edge retentive alloy in the knife industry. What makes the ZDP-189 steel remarkable is that it can be hardened up to HRC 65-67 without any problems of chipping. Manufacturing processes of this steel make it one of the toughest steels available on the market today. Serious users and professional chefs prefer to use knives made from ZDP-189 steel because of its superior cutting performance and longer edge retention.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel is laminated, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel and covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time: its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis Gyuto was fitted with a traditional Japanese wooden handle, called Wa. \u003c\/span\u003eThe wooden handle is made of Walnut wood and has an octagonal shape, which fits well into the hands of both left- and right-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy in 2016.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46976783450458,"sku":"030103121310","price":276.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189GyutoSilverMigaki210mm_030103121310_1.jpg?v=1756725201"},{"product_id":"yoshida-ajikiri-suj-2-kuro-uchi-100mm-rosewood-cedar-octagon","title":"Yoshida Ajikiri SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 100mm (3.9\") [Rosewood-Cedar\/Octagon]","description":"\u003cp\u003eYoshida Ajikiri SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 100mm (3.9\") [Rosewood-Cedar] blade is fitted with an octagonal rosewood handle, topped with a ferrule made of cedar wood. It is also available \u003ca href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-santoku-funayuki-155mm-blade\" data-mce-href=\"\/products\/kuro-uchi-santoku-funayuki-155mm-blade\"\u003ewithout a handle\u003c\/a\u003e (in case you would like to fit it with a custom handle of your choice).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe price of this knife is very affordable for the quality of a hand-forged knife. The blade is forged from \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel,\u003c\/strong\u003e which offers incredible capacities, hardness is \u003cstrong\u003e63-64 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra maintenance. After use, rinse it well and dry it. The name kuro-uchi refers to the blade finish, which is unprocessed on top and has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade from rust.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE PROFILE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe ajikiri is a smaller, thinner version of the traditional \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knife-types\/japanese-deba-knife-everything-you-need-to-know\"\u003eJapanese deba knife\u003c\/a\u003e. It is designed for smaller fish, such as mackerel, from which its name is derived - in Japanese, 'Aji' means mackerel, and combined with the word 'kiri' (jap. knife), the name \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e鯵切 ajikiri \u003c\/span\u003eliterally means 'a knife for a mackerel'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade is forged in \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, which offers incredible capacities, hardness is 63-64 HRC, and at the same time, the knife is very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra maintenance. After use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the san-mai method to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade sports a raw kurouchi finish which gives it a rustic appearance. The stamp on the blade 吉 (Kichi) means luck.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa hande in an octagonal shape. It is made from rosewood and topped with a ferrule made from cedar wood. The same blade with a handle of the same material but in an oval shape is available \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/products\/yoshida-ajikiri-suj-2-kuro-uchi-100mm-rosewood-cedar\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSMITHY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYoshida Hamono is a family-owned Japanese company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. The company has a workshop in the Japanese town of Saga. It is well-known for manufacturing metal products in tested corrosion-resistant materials, such as VG-10, Ginsan and Swedish steel. You can learn more about them and our visit to their workshop \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48526466154842,"sku":"0S0107321775","price":88.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaAjikiriSUJ-2Kuro-uchi100mm-palisander_cedra_oktagon__00541_2.jpg?v=1754561781"},{"product_id":"yoshida-gyuto-suj-2-kuro-uchi-210mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Gyuto SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 210mm (8.3\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Gyuto SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 210mm (8.3\")\u003c\/strong\u003e is a multi-purpose blade made in the Japanese smithy Yoshida Hamono.\u003c\/span\u003e It's made from high-carbon SUJ-2 steel, so it is easy to sharpen and stays sharp for a long time. The blade has a minimalist, black kuro-uchi look, so it will suit both classic and more extravagant handles wonderfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThis \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblade is \u003cstrong\u003ewithout a handle\u003c\/strong\u003e, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/gyuto-knives-chefs-knife\"\u003eGyuto\u003c\/a\u003e is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It can be used with a variety of different cutting techniques to take on a wide range of kitchen tasks. \u003cspan\u003eGyuto stands for “beef sword” in Japanese and was initially used to cut meat. Today, gyuto is one of the most indispensable knives in a kitchen and can do just about everything, obviously also cut a large chunk of beef.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Only a plastic saya fits this blade. Due to the hand-forged nature and the slightly non-standard size of the blade, the 210mm wooden saya does not fit properly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged in SUJ-2 steel, which offers incredible capacities. Its hardness is \u003cstrong\u003e63-64 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning it will keep sharp for a long time, and the steel qualities also make the knife very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra maintenance because of its high carbon content. After use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esan-mai method\u003c\/a\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel\u003c\/a\u003e (symmetrical) blade and is suitable for both left- and right-handed users. The blade \u003cstrong\u003etapers distally\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning that the blade becomes increasingly thinner from the heel of the blade towards the tip. This gives it more strength and weight at the handle (meaning we can exert more pressure with the heel) and more precision at the tip, allowing for smooth and precise cuts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark protective patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis blade is without a handle, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49612445286746,"sku":"030103121599","price":104.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaGyutoSUJ-2Kuro-uchi210mm_8.3__-blade_.030103121599_1tif_beb387f2-b7c2-42e2-a3d8-b6d52040f0e6.jpg?v=1746439337"},{"product_id":"yoshida-bunka-suj-2-kuro-uchi-190mm-koi-fish","title":"Yoshida Bunka SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 190mm (7.5\") [Koi Fish]","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe Yoshida Bunka SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 190mm (7.5\") is a \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ehandmade\u003c\/strong\u003e, versatile mid-sized kitchen knife, perfect for a variety of cutting tasks. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePart of the Yoshida Hamono Kuro-uchi series, this knife is crafted from durable \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e (64.7 HRC), which offers exceptional edge retention and features a kuro-uchi finish for a rustic appearance and added durability. The \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ehigh-end \u003cstrong\u003eebony handle\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring precise control while slicing, dicing, and chopping. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its traditional Japanese rustic design and unique \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish engraving\u003c\/strong\u003e, this knife is an ideal choice for anyone looking to purchase their first Japanese blade and makes a \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/japanese-knife-as-gift\"\u003efantastic gift\u003c\/a\u003e for culinary enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is handmade at the Yoshida Hamono Smithy in Saga Prefecture, located in the south of Japan. Every step of the process—\u003cstrong\u003elamination, forging, grinding, and heat treatment—is completed in-house\u003c\/strong\u003e. The extremely thin blade is crafted from SUJ-2 carbon steel, known for its fine particle structure, which enhances cutting precision and provides exceptional sharpness and agility in use. With a hardness of 64.7 HRC, this steel ensures both edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, this high-performance blade does require some extra care—after each use, it should be rinsed and \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/what-is-patina-good-or-bad-on-your-knife\"\u003edried immediately to prevent rust\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo make this knife even more special, we engraved our unique Japanese \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish\u003c\/strong\u003e illustration on the blade. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Japanese koi fish, known for its vibrant colors and graceful movements, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and good fortune. In Japanese tradition, koi are admired for their resilience, as they are said to swim upstream and even transform into dragons, symbolizing the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis design was created by the skilled tattoo artist Iva (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ivatattoo\/\"\u003e@ivatattoo\u003c\/a\u003e), owner of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rozatiger.tattoo\"\u003e@rozatiger.tattoo\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eShe is a passionate fan of all things related to Japan and specializes in Japanese motifs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knife-types\/japanese-bunka-knife\"\u003eBunka\u003c\/a\u003e is one of the most versatile and useful blade shapes in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With an above-average hardness of 64+ HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop some patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen, and stays sharp for a very long time. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-maintenance-oils\"\u003eBallistol or Camellia oil\u003c\/a\u003e is recommended for the care of such blades\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eAfter use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 CHARACTERISTICS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e SUJ-2 steel offers outstanding hardness (64.7 HRC), ensuring a long-lasting edge that stays sharp even with frequent use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine Particle Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its fine grain structure allows for precision sharpening, resulting in an incredibly sharp, precise edge ideal for detailed cutting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Durability: \u003c\/strong\u003eSUJ-2 is highly resistant to wear, maintaining its performance and sharpness over time, even with heavy use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Edge Retention: \u003c\/strong\u003eKnown for its ability to hold an edge, SUJ-2 steel requires less frequent sharpening, making it convenient for daily kitchen tasks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eChemical structure: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e0.95% - 1.10% carbon (C), 1.30% - 1.60% chromium (Cr), 0.25% - 0.45% manganese (Mn), 0.15% - 0.35% silicon (Si), with maximum levels of 0.025% phosphorus (P) and 0.025% sulfur (S).\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the\u003cstrong\u003e san-mai method\u003c\/strong\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eViewed from the back of the blade, the knife is heavier and stronger at the handle and thinner and more precise at the tip. This blade shape makes the knife easier to use because the blade is very responsive, easily maneuverable and nicely balanced. This type of blade design is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003edistal taper - you can read more about it in the article on blade geometry\u003c\/a\u003e.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish, which is the reason this look is called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe engraving on the blade 九佐吉 means: Yoshida Hamono, Saga, Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa handle in an octagonal shape, crafted from chocolate brown \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/what-are-japanese-knife-handles-made-of\"\u003eebony wood and topped with a ferrule made of light-colored buffalo horn\u003c\/a\u003e. Ebony is a rare and precious wood with an exceptionally hard and dense structure, making the handle highly durable and resistant to moisture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/understanding-japanese-knife-handle-shapes\"\u003eslightly flattened octagonal shape\u003c\/a\u003e of the handle helps it align well with the cutting board, and its symmetrical shape makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis handle provides excellent blade control when slicing. Additionally, the compact grip minimizes the possibility of slipping during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49766673645914,"sku":"0S0116291770","price":176.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaBunkaSUJ-2Kuro-uchi190mm_7.5__KoiFish__00554-0S0116291770_2_kanji.jpg?v=1755074766"},{"product_id":"yoshida-gyuto-suj-2-kuro-uchi-210mm-koi-fish","title":"Yoshida Gyuto SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 210mm (8.3\") [Koi Fish]","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe Yoshida Gyuto SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 210mm (8.3\") is\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ea\u003cstrong\u003e handmade\u003c\/strong\u003e, versatile knife designed for a wide range of cutting tasks. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePart of the Yoshida Hamono Kuro-uchi series, this knife is crafted from durable \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e (64.7 HRC), which offers exceptional edge retention and features a kuro-uchi finish for a rustic appearance and added durability. The high-end \u003cstrong\u003eebony handle\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring precise control while slicing, dicing, and chopping. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its traditional Japanese rustic design and unique \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish engraving\u003c\/strong\u003e, this knife is an ideal choice for anyone looking to purchase their first Japanese blade and makes a \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/japanese-knife-as-gift\"\u003efantastic gift\u003c\/a\u003e for culinary enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is handmade at the Yoshida Hamono Smithy in Saga Prefecture, located in the south of Japan. Every step of the process—\u003cstrong\u003elamination, forging, grinding, and heat treatment—is completed in-house\u003c\/strong\u003e. The extremely thin blade is crafted from SUJ-2 steel, known for its fine particle structure, which enhances cutting precision and provides exceptional sharpness and agility in use. With a hardness of 64.7 HRC, this steel ensures both edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, this high-performance blade does require some extra care—after each use, it should be rinsed and \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/what-is-patina-good-or-bad-on-your-knife\"\u003edried immediately to prevent rust\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo make this knife even more special, we engraved our unique Japanese \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish\u003c\/strong\u003e illustration on the blade. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Japanese koi fish, known for its vibrant colors and graceful movements, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and good fortune. In Japanese tradition, koi are admired for their resilience, as they are said to swim upstream and even transform into dragons, symbolizing the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis design was created by the skilled tattoo artist Iva (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ivatattoo\/\"\u003e@ivatattoo\u003c\/a\u003e), owner of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rozatiger.tattoo\"\u003e@rozatiger.tattoo\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eShe is a passionate fan of all things related to Japan and specializes in Japanese motifs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knife-types\/japanese-gyuto-chef-knife\"\u003egyuto\u003c\/a\u003e is the Japanese equivalent of the Western chef's knife and is considered the most versatile and useful blade shape in the modern kitchen. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eIt features a wide profile for easy food transfer and a slight curve extending from the heel to the tip, allowing for quick and efficient chopping using various cutting techniques on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eIt is ideal for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables, particularly excelling with larger cuts of meat and substantial quantities of vegetables, making it an excellent tool for meal prep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Only a plastic saya fits this blade. Due to the hand-forged nature and the slightly non-standard size of the blade, the 210mm wooden saya does not fit properly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With an above-average hardness of 64+ HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop some patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen, and stays sharp for a very long time. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-maintenance-oils\"\u003eBallistol or Camellia oil\u003c\/a\u003e is recommended for the care of such blades\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eAfter use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 CHARACTERISTICS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e SUJ-2 steel offers outstanding hardness (64.7 HRC), ensuring a long-lasting edge that stays sharp even with frequent use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine Particle Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its fine grain structure allows for precision sharpening, resulting in an incredibly sharp, precise edge ideal for detailed cutting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Durability: \u003c\/strong\u003eSUJ-2 is highly resistant to wear, maintaining its performance and sharpness over time, even with heavy use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Edge Retention: \u003c\/strong\u003eKnown for its ability to hold an edge, SUJ-2 steel requires less frequent sharpening, making it convenient for daily kitchen tasks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChemical structure: \u003c\/strong\u003e0.95% - 1.10% carbon (C), 1.30% - 1.60% chromium (Cr), 0.25% - 0.45% manganese (Mn), 0.15% - 0.35% silicon (Si), with maximum levels of 0.025% phosphorus (P) and 0.025% sulfur (S).\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the\u003cstrong\u003e san-mai method\u003c\/strong\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eViewed from the back of the blade, the knife is heavier and stronger at the handle and thinner and more precise at the tip. This blade shape makes the knife easier to use because the blade is very responsive, easily maneuverable and nicely balanced. This type of blade design is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003edistal taper - you can read more about it in the article on blade geometry\u003c\/a\u003e.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish, which is the reason this look is called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe engraving on the blade 九佐吉 means: Yoshida Hamono, Saga, Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa handle in an octagonal shape, crafted from \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/what-are-japanese-knife-handles-made-of\"\u003echocolate brown ebony wood\u003c\/a\u003e and topped with a ferrule made of light-colored buffalo horn. Ebony is a rare and precious wood with an exceptionally hard and dense structure, making the handle highly durable and resistant to moisture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/understanding-japanese-knife-handle-shapes\"\u003eslightly flattened octagonal shape\u003c\/a\u003e of the handle helps it align well with the cutting board, and its symmetrical shape makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis handle provides excellent blade control when slicing. Additionally, the compact grip minimizes the possibility of slipping during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49767037698394,"sku":"0S0103121769","price":184.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaGyutoSUJ-2Kuro-uchi210mm_8.3__KoiFish__00553-0S0103121769_2kanji.jpg?v=1755074969"},{"product_id":"hap-40-wide-gyuto-black-ebony-240mm","title":"HAP-40 Wide Gyuto Black Ebony 240mm (9.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Wide Gyuto Black Ebony 240mm (9.5\")\u003c\/strong\u003e is our second all-rounder made of powder steel that we designed in collaboration with the Japanese master blacksmith Osamu-san from the \u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono smithy\u003c\/strong\u003e. With the HAP-40 series, we fused an optimal blade shape that matches the versatile nature of Western cuisine, Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its pronounced curved belly and extra-wide blade, the Wide Gyuto sets itself apart from traditional Japanese blades, making it well-suited to Western chopping techniques as well as Japanese push\/pull cutting techniques. A slight belly curve makes it great for the rocking cutting technique, while the pronounced tip, triangular design, and its enviable length (240mm \/ 9.5\") will make quick work of larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb id=\"docs-internal-guid-a30f5518-7fff-0307-847d-5c7c936fc3bb\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. \u003cstrong\u003eWide Gyuto\u003c\/strong\u003e, however, has a little twist to its shape: with a pronounced curved belly and a very wide blade, it sets itself apart from traditional Japanese blades and is suited to Western cutting and chopping techniques. The standard gyuto shape thus transforms into a blade that looks like a deba but is readily used for precision cutting, where you need really thin cuts (this makes it unsuitable for cutting through bones or making more robust cuts). A slight belly curve makes it great for rocking cutting technique, while the pronounced tip, triangular design and an enviable length (240mm \/ 9.5\") will make quick work of larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe HAP-40 gyuto features a sleek Wa handle made from a single piece of dark ebony wood. Its octagonal shape offers a balanced, comfortable grip for both right- and left-handed users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): \u003cstrong\u003eHitachi’s HAP-40 stee\u003c\/strong\u003el that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible \u003cstrong\u003e68 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBlacksmiths counter the brittleness of material with special composition of the knife. In the case of this HAP-40 Wide Gyuto, Osamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003esan-mai\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “sandwich”) method. A layer of the core steel (HAP-40) is laminated between two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003eChef and entrepreneur J. Hartley had this to say after using the knife: \u003cem\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The HAP-40 is an unusual knife. It's large, but I personally enjoy having two knives in one. The larger butt-end and straighter edge handle all manner of slicing and cutting and the smaller tip end is great for more detailed work. It's unusual in that it's unbalanced, weighted toward the tip, but I have enjoyed that as for such a large knife it just naturally wants to fall into the cut and therefore make it an easier, smoother process. The fact it looks stunning and is sharp as shit doesn't hurt!\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is fitted with an octagonal Japanese (Wa) style handle made out of a \u003cstrong\u003esingle piece of luxurious dark ebony wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, renowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50425292390746,"sku":"0S0103161768","price":392.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40WideGyutoBlackEbony240mm_limited__00557_2.jpg?v=1756725137"},{"product_id":"hap-40-gyuto-black-ebony-blond-buffalo-210mm","title":"HAP-40 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowder steel knives are next level and we have something limited and rare on deck. Introducing the HAP-40 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\"). This limited edition Gyuto is made from premium powder steel, HAP-40, and features a traditional octagonal ebony wood handle. Limited stock!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black 210mm (8.3\") is a multi-purpose knife from our HAP-40 series, which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWith this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe length of the blade (210mm \/ 8.3\") allows for efficient work even with larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It can be used with a variety of different cutting techniques to take on a wide range of kitchen tasks. \u003cspan\u003eGyuto stands for “beef sword” in Japanese and was initially used to cut meat. Today, gyuto is one of the most indispensable knives in a kitchen and can do just about everything, obviously also cut a large chunk of beef.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): \u003cstrong\u003eHitachi’s HAP-40 stee\u003c\/strong\u003el that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has a minimal content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible \u003cstrong\u003e68 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\") features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50425484149082,"sku":"0S0103121767","price":316.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40GyutoBlackEbonyBlondBuffalo210mm_limited__00558_1.jpg?v=1756725134"},{"product_id":"hap-40-santoku-black-ebony-blond-buffalo-180mm","title":"HAP-40 Santoku Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowder steel knives are next level and we have something limited and rare on deck. Introducing the HAP-40 Santoku Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 180mm (7.1\"). This limited edition Santoku is made from premium powder steel, HAP-40, and features a traditional octagonal ebony wood handle. Limited stock!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eHAP-40 Santoku Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 180mm (7.1\") is a kitchen knife from our HAP-40 series, which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy. It will become your indispensable vegetable chopper. With this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003epractical Japanese blades!\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eHAP-40 Santoku Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIts shape is designed for a speedy chopping of greens on a kitchen board.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAllows easy, simple cutting technique also for inexperienced cooks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSantoku is a universal knife that excels at all types of cutting and chopping tasks on a cutting board. The Japanese word \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003esantoku\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e roughly translates to “knife of three virtues” (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003esan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e means “three”) and may refer to the wide array of ingredients that the knife can handle (meat, fish and vegetables) or to the tasks it can perform (slicing, chopping and dicing).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): \u003cstrong\u003eHitachi’s HAP-40 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible \u003cstrong\u003e68 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION\u003c\/strong\u003e: 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis limited edition santoku features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50428014461274,"sku":"0S0108101766","price":276.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40SantokuBlackEbonyBlondBuffalo180mm_limited__00559_2.jpg?v=1756725130"},{"product_id":"hap-40-bunka-black-ebony-blond-buffalo-190mm","title":"HAP-40 Bunka Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 190mm (7.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003ePowder steel at its finest. The HAP-40 Bunka Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 190mm (7.5\") is rare, refined, and ready for action. With a razor-sharp HAP-40 powder steel blade and an elegant ebony octagonal handle, it’s built for balance, precision, and pure cutting joy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Bunka Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWide blade at the handle allows for comfortable (and lengthy) work with either right or left hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gentle belly allows you to perform either long, gliding slices or short, precise cuts with ease.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe heel of the blade is straight and intended for chopping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBunka design\u003c\/a\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine. It has a flexible profile that is wide enough at the handle, a gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either long or short cuts, a flat back side of the blade, and a thin tip for precise work with food.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe secret of this knife lies in extremely (68 HRC!) hard core made of a somewhat exotic and currently one of the most mysterious and attractive steels produced in Japan (at least as far as kitchen knives are concerned): \u003cstrong\u003eHitachi’s HAP-40 stee\u003c\/strong\u003el that fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible \u003cstrong\u003e68 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCOMPOSITION:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.27–1.37% carbon (C), 3.70–4.70% chromium (Cr), 5.60–6.40% tungsten (W), 4.60–5.40% molybdenum (Mo), 2.80–3.30% vanadium (V) and 7.50–8.50% cobalt (Co).\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis limited edition HAP-40 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\") features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50428026814810,"sku":"0S0116291833","price":300.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189BunkaBlackEbonyBlondBuffalo190mm_00597_1.jpg?v=1756725127"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-silver-ebony-210mm","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Ebony 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowder steel knives are next level and we have something limited and rare on deck. Introducing the ZDP-189 Gyuto Silver Ebony 210mm (8.3\"). This gyuto is made from premium powder steel, ZDP-189, and features a traditional octagonal ebony handle. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLimited stock.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"normal\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#gyuto\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eGyuto\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e is the most versatile and useful blade shape in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. A slight curve between the tip and the midsection makes the belly great for rocking the blade back and forth when cutting. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel ZDP-189 contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. Heat treatment produces steel with a hardness of \u003cstrong\u003e65-67 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe pure carbon content of ZDP-189 makes it one of the most edge retentive alloy in the knife industry. What makes the ZDP-189 steel remarkable is that it can be hardened up to HRC 65-67 without any problems of chipping. Manufacturing processes of this steel make it one of the toughest steels available on the market today. Serious users and professional chefs prefer to use knives made from ZDP-189 steel because of its superior cutting performance and longer edge retention.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe steel is laminated, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel and covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel. Such a blade remains sharp for a very long time: its softer external layer makes it easier to sharpen, and it also protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003eA small batch of ZDP-189 gyuto silver blades from the Yoshida Hamono smithy has been finished with delicate hammer marks, creating a subtle tsuchime finish. With its subtle hammer marks, this knife embodies the Japanese wabi-sabi concept. It celebrates beauty in imperfections, asymmetry, and irregularities, highlighting the uniqueness and authenticity of objects that may not conform to traditional notions of perfection.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is fitted with an octagonal Japanese (Wa) style handle made out of a \u003cstrong\u003esingle piece of luxurious dark ebony wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, renowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Silver is manufactured at the smithy of\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003ein Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e. katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy in 2016.\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50428112896346,"sku":"0S0103121763","price":292.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189GyutoSilverEbony210mm_limited__00564_1.jpg?v=1756725117"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-black-ebony-180mm","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Black Ebony 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowder steel knives are next level and we have something limited and rare on deck. Introducing the ZDP-189 Santoku Black Ebony 180mm (7.1\"). This santoku is made from premium powder steel, ZDP-189, and features a traditional octagonal ebony handle. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLimited stock.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Santoku Black 180mm (7.1\") is the one of the knives we designed with a help of the skillful blacksmith Osamu-san from Yoshida Hamono. The design is a result of years of our experience with Japanese knives.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \"Santoku\" derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca title=\"Japanse powder steel\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\" title=\"Lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe hard core of a knife is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel, reaching only up to a half of the blade’s width. This specific type of construction is used for steels that are very challenging to forge, for example for certain types of powder steels. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The material is now forged into one piece. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well. Warikomi is also called the “split and insert method”. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eSantoku Black has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e with a low profile and a \u003c\/span\u003eV-edge grind, which gives it a good balance between the ease of cutting and robustness. This kind of grind\u003cspan\u003e produces very sharp edges and is wonderful at making very thin slices. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eKuro-uchi\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e fin\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Kuro-uchi finish\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003eish\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eunprocessed (black) part on the top side of the blade has already developed a dark patina, which protects the blade and gives it a traditional Japanese look. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is fitted with an octagonal Japanese (Wa) style handle made out of a \u003cstrong\u003esingle piece of luxurious dark ebony wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, renowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The kuro-uchi finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eTherefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50430265590106,"sku":"0S0108101762","price":256.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189SantokuBlackEbony180mm_limited__00565_1.jpg?v=1756725114"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-bunka-black-ebony-blond-buffalo-190mm","title":"ZDP-189 Bunka Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 190mm (7.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"Fifteen years ago, ZDP-189 was practically a myth—the Holy Grail of knife steels,\" our founder Luka recalls. \"I shared my dream of forging it with master \u003cstrong\u003eOsamu San of Yoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e. One day he called: 'Luka, let’s give it a try.' We created a raw, black bunka. Don't let the rough look fool you. This blade is hand-forged, ice-hardened for smooth, effortless cutting, and built to withstand years of hard daily work. Even today, those very first bunkas still come back to us for sharpening after a decade of hard, everyday work in professional kitchens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBunka design\u003c\/a\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine. It has a flexible profile that is wide enough at the handle, a gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either long or short cuts, a flat back side of the blade, and a thin tip for precise work with food.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWide blade at the handle allows for comfortable (and lengthy) work with either right or left hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gentle belly is suited to either long or short cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe heel of the blade is straight and intended for chopping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e65-67\u003c\/span\u003e HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBunka features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50610199658842,"sku":"0S0116331761","price":296.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189BunkaBlackEbonyBlondBuffalo190mm_00597_1.jpg?v=1756725127"},{"product_id":"masakiyo-weeding-hoe-right-handed","title":"Masakiyo Weeding Hoe [Right-Handed]","description":"\u003cp\u003eDesigned for efficient weeding and soil removal, this hand-made Japanese weeding hoe from Yoshida Hamono in Saga delivers precision and durability. The sharp double-layer steel blade ensures clean cuts and can be resharpened for long-term use. A reinforced blade-handle joint enhances strength and stability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\" data-end=\"519\" data-start=\"373\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCare Tips:\u003c\/strong\u003e After use, wipe the blade and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Avoid contact with stones and other hard objects, as they can damage the blade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlade material:\u003c\/strong\u003e SK5\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHandle material:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ebeech wood (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eFSC®-certified)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTotal Length:\u003c\/strong\u003e 330mm (13.0\")\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlade Length: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e125mm (4.9\")\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHandle Lenght:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e260mm (10.2\")\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight: \u003c\/strong\u003e7.1 oz (200g)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eManufacturer: \u003c\/strong\u003eYoshida Hamono [SAGA \/ Saga Prefecture \/ Japan]\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51024866378074,"sku":"030782001684","price":23.2,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaHamonoJaponskaMotika_030782001684_1.jpg?v=1754561732"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-silver-ebony-180mm","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Silver Ebony Blond Buffalo 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis limited-edition santoku is forged by Osamu-san of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e and crafted from \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/japanese-knives?pf_t_steel_material=steel_ZDP-189\"\u003eZDP-189 powder steel\u003c\/a\u003e—one of the hardest and most durable steels available for kitchen knives. The blade features traditional warikomi lamination, combining a razor-sharp cutting edge with impressive edge retention. A fine tsuchime texture and mirror-polished finish bring subtle elegance to its performance-driven design. At 180mm, it's a versatile choice for meat, fish, and vegetables—and it holds its edge exceptionally well. A true collector’s piece made to be used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \"Santoku\" derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189\u003c\/a\u003e is a high-carbon stainless powder steel with approximately 3% carbon and 20% chromium, offering exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. With a Rockwell hardness of 65–67 HRC, this steel allows for an extremely sharp, long-lasting edge. The steel also contains tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium to enhance wear resistance and structural integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis double-bevel santoku knife has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eV-edge grind\u003c\/a\u003e and a low-profile blade shape, ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping vegetables, fish, and meat. The geometry supports precise cuts with minimal resistance, making it versatile for both professional chefs and home cooks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe blade surface is polished to a subtle mirror hairline finish with a delicate tsuchime (hammered) texture, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection and uniqueness. Each knife is individually forged, so no two are exactly the same.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis santoku features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from durable ebony wood with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced, comfortable grip. Ebony’s hardness and polished finish create a luxurious look and smooth feel, while the octagonal shape ensures precise control during use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat-treated by the blacksmith in his workshop in southern Japan. The final finish retains a rustic, robust character, showcasing the craftsmanship of a purely handmade blade. As a result, each piece is entirely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51208464957786,"sku":"0S0108101757","price":272.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189SantokuSilverEbonyBlondBuffalo180mm_7.1___00609_1.jpg?v=1756725101"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-silver-180mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Silver 180mm (7.1\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Santoku Silver blade is available without a handle, giving you the chance to create a one-of-a-kind knife perfectly tailored to your taste and needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis limited-edition santoku is forged by Osamu-san of Yoshida Hamono and crafted from ZDP-189 powder steel—one of the hardest and most durable steels available for kitchen knives. The blade features traditional warikomi lamination, combining a razor-sharp cutting edge with impressive edge retention. A fine tsuchime texture and mirror-polished finish bring subtle elegance to its performance-driven design. At 180mm, it's a versatile choice for meat, fish, and vegetables—and it holds its edge exceptionally well. A true collector’s piece made to be used.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/santoku-knives-multi-purpose\"\u003eSantoku\u003c\/a\u003e derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189\u003c\/a\u003e is a high-carbon stainless powder steel with approximately 3% carbon and 20% chromium, offering exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. With a Rockwell hardness of 65–67 HRC, this steel allows for an extremely sharp, long-lasting edge. The steel also contains tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium to enhance wear resistance and structural integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis double-bevel santoku knife has a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eV-edge grind\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and a low-profile blade shape, ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping vegetables, fish, and meat. The geometry supports precise cuts with minimal resistance, making it versatile for both professional chefs and home cooks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade surface is polished to a subtle \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003emirror hairline finish\u003c\/a\u003e with a delicate tsuchime (hammered) texture, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection and uniqueness. Each knife is individually forged, so no two are exactly the same.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The final finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eTherefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51216553378138,"sku":"030108101616","price":200.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189SantokuSilver180mm-REZILO_030108101616_1.jpg?v=1756725099"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-nakiri-black-170mm-blade","title":"ZDP-189 Nakiri Black 170mm (6.7\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ZDP-189 Nakiri Black 170mm (6.7\") is a high-performance vegetable knife developed in collaboration with Yoshida Hamono, blending traditional craftsmanship with advanced powder steel technology. Made from ultra-hard ZDP-189 powder steel, this blade offers exceptional edge retention and cutting power, while remaining surprisingly easy to maintain for a knife of its class. A true workhorse with the refinement of a collector’s piece.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSold without a handle—so you can create a custom look and feel. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003ehandle selection\u003c\/a\u003e and add our Handle Fitting Service at checkout if you’d like us to install it for you.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/nakiri-knives\"\u003enakiri\u003c\/a\u003e is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife with a flat edge and square tip—perfect for clean, straight cuts without needing to push or pull. Its deep blade and thin tip make it ideal for both fast chopping and precise work. Designed for vegetables, but versatile enough for everyday prep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Only a plastic saya fits this blade. Due to the hand-forged nature and the slightly non-standard size of the blade, the leather saya does not fit properly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189\u003c\/a\u003e is a high-carbon stainless powder steel with approximately 3% carbon and 20% chromium, offering exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. With a Rockwell hardness of 65–67 HRC, this steel allows for an extremely sharp, long-lasting edge. The steel also contains tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium to enhance wear resistance and structural integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis double-bevel nakiri\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has a \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eV-edge grind\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cspan\u003e and a low-profile blade shape, ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping vegetables, fish, and meat. The geometry supports precise cuts with minimal resistance, making it versatile for both professional chefs and home cooks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003ekuro-uchi finish\u003c\/a\u003e—the dark, unpolished area on the top of the blade—develops a natural patina that protects the steel and gives the knife a traditional Japanese appearance. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtle round hammer marks from the hand-forging process remain visible, adding a beautiful rustic texture that also helps reduce food sticking to the blade. The kanji 登録 九佐吉作 (\"registered work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\") is chiseled onto the blade, certifying its authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eHand-forged at \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\" href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e in southern Japan—a family-run smithy with a long tradition of crafting katanas and fine tools. Renowned for their expertise with ZDP-189 steel, Yoshida Hamono creates each blade using time-honored techniques, lending a rustic, robust finish to every knife. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat treated by the \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblacksmith in his small smithy in the south of Japan. The final finish \u003cspan\u003ehas a touch of rusticity and robustness that comes with the purely handmade blade. \u003c\/span\u003eTherefore, each piece is completely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51335464714586,"sku":"030106251714","price":208.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189NakiriBlack170mm-REZILO_030106251714_1.jpg?v=1756725081"},{"product_id":"yoshida-bunka-suj-2-kuro-uchi-190mm-blade","title":"Yoshida Bunka SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 190mm (7.5\") - BLADE","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Bunka SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 190mm (7.5\")\u003c\/strong\u003e is a handmade, versatile mid-sized kitchen knife, perfect for a variety of cutting tasks. Part of the Yoshida Hamono Kuro-uchi series, this knife is crafted from durable SUJ-2 steel (64.7 HRC), which offers exceptional edge retention and features a kuro-uchi finish for a rustic appearance and added durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThis \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eblade is \u003cstrong\u003ewithout a handle\u003c\/strong\u003e, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWith its minimalist kuro-uchi look it will combine well with both classic and more extravagant handles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knife-types\/japanese-bunka-knife\"\u003eBunka\u003c\/a\u003e is one of the most versatile and useful blade shapes in the modern kitchen. It has a wide profile for easy food transfer and tends to be fairly flat towards the heel, enabling easy and fast chopping on the cutting board. A pointed tip allows piercing and precise, delicate work. It can be used for cutting meat, fish, and vegetables.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e*Only a plastic saya fits this blade. Due to the hand-forged nature and the slightly non-standard size of the blade, the 190mm wooden saya does not fit properly.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged in \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which offers incredible capacities. Its hardness is \u003cstrong\u003e63-64 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, meaning it will keep sharp for a long time, and the steel qualities also make the knife very easy to resharpen. The blade requires some extra maintenance because of its high carbon content. After use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esan-mai method\u003c\/a\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel\u003c\/a\u003e (symmetrical) blade and is suitable for both left- and right-handed users. The blade \u003cstrong\u003etapers distally\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, meaning that the blade becomes increasingly thinner from the heel of the blade towards the tip. This gives it more strength and weight at the handle (meaning we can exert more pressure with the heel) and more precision at the tip, allowing for smooth and precise cuts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark protective patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis blade is without a handle, so you can fit your own. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-handles\"\u003eselection of handles\u003c\/a\u003e and create your own, custom-looking knife! If you would like that we fit the selected handle to the blade for you, select \u003ci\u003eHandle fitting service\u003c\/i\u003e when adding the blade to the cart.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51983140225370,"sku":"030116291617","price":104.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaBunkaSUJ-2Kuro-uchi190mm_7.5__KoiFish__BLADE_030116291617_1_kanji.jpg?v=1755781282"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-bunka-silver-ebony-blond-buffalo-190mm","title":"ZDP-189 Bunka Silver Ebony Blond Buffalo 190mm (7.5\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePowder steel knives are next level. Introducing the ZDP-189 Bunka Silver Ebony Blond Buffalo 190mm (7.5\"). This edition Bunka is made from premium powder steel, ZDP-189, and features a traditional octagonal ebony wood handle.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eZDP-189 Bunka Silver 190mm (7.5\") is a multi-purpose knife which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy. With this knife, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eZDP-189 Bunka Silver embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWide blade at the handle allows for comfortable (and lengthy) work with either right or left hand.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe gentle belly is suited to either long or short cuts.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe heel of the blade is straight and intended for chopping.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e65-67\u003c\/span\u003e HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith its typical functionality, \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/types-of-japanese-kitchen-knives\/#bunka\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eBunka design\u003c\/a\u003e is intended for versatile use in Western cuisine. It has a flexible profile that is wide enough at the handle, a gently designed belly of the blade suitable for making either long or short cuts, a flat back side of the blade, and a thin tip for precise work with food.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\" title=\"Japanse powder steel\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is finished with a mirror polish hairline finish, which is suitable for the finest cuts. The single hairline, running along the length of the blade (just above the edge of the blade), marks the separation between the softer and the harder, core ZDP-189 steel.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe knife bears barely visible impressions of the hand-forging process (round hammer dents on the blade), which gives it a beautiful rustic finish \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eand also prevents food from sticking to the blade. Kanji\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e  登録 九佐吉作 \"registered as work of Yoshida Smithy in Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e has been chiseled onto the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBunka features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52869623087450,"sku":"0S0116291905","price":292.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189BunkaSilverEbonyBlondBuffalo190mm_0S0116291905_1.jpg?v=1764259933"},{"product_id":"yoshida-santoku-suj-2-kuro-uchi-165mm-rosewood-cedar-octagon","title":"Yoshida Santoku SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 165mm (6.5\") [Rosewood-Cedar\/Octagon]","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe Yoshida Santoku Tosa SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 165mm (6.5\") is\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ea\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ehandmade, versatile knife designed for a wide range of cutting tasks. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePart of the Yoshida Hamono Kuro-uchi series, this knife is crafted from durable \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e (64.7 HRC), which offers exceptional edge retention and features a kuro-uchi finish for a rustic appearance and added durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe blade is handmade at the Yoshida Hamono Smithy in Saga Prefecture, located in the south of Japan. Every step of the process—\u003cstrong\u003elamination, forging, grinding, and heat treatment—is completed in-house\u003c\/strong\u003e. The extremely thin blade is crafted from SUJ-2 steel, known for its fine particle structure, which enhances cutting precision and provides exceptional sharpness and agility in use. With a hardness of 64.7 HRC, this steel ensures both edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, this high-performance blade does require some extra care—after each use, it should be rinsed and \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/what-is-patina-good-or-bad-on-your-knife\"\u003edried immediately to prevent rust\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/santoku-knives-multi-purpose\"\u003esantoku\u003c\/a\u003e is a multipurpose Japanese kitchen knife, known for its compact size and balanced design. With a flatter edge and a rounded sheepsfoot tip, it excels at chopping, slicing, and dicing vegetables, fish, and boneless meat. Its wide blade aids in scooping ingredients, while the shorter length offers precise control—perfect for fast, efficient prep work in any kitchen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With an above-average hardness of 64+ HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop some patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen, and stays sharp for a very long time. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-maintenance-oils\"\u003eBallistol or Camellia oil\u003c\/a\u003e is recommended for the care of such blades\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eAfter use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 CHARACTERISTICS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e SUJ-2 steel offers outstanding hardness (64.7 HRC), ensuring a long-lasting edge that stays sharp even with frequent use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine Particle Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its fine grain structure allows for precision sharpening, resulting in an incredibly sharp, precise edge ideal for detailed cutting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Durability: \u003c\/strong\u003eSUJ-2 is highly resistant to wear, maintaining its performance and sharpness over time, even with heavy use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Edge Retention: \u003c\/strong\u003eKnown for its ability to hold an edge, SUJ-2 steel requires less frequent sharpening, making it convenient for daily kitchen tasks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eChemical structure: \u003c\/strong\u003e0.95% - 1.10% carbon (C), 1.30% - 1.60% chromium (Cr), 0.25% - 0.45% manganese (Mn), 0.15% - 0.35% silicon (Si), with maximum levels of 0.025% phosphorus (P) and 0.025% sulfur (S).\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the\u003cstrong\u003e san-mai method\u003c\/strong\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eViewed from the back of the blade, the knife is heavier and stronger at the handle and thinner and more precise at the tip. This blade shape makes the knife easier to use because the blade is very responsive, easily maneuverable and nicely balanced. This type of blade design is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\" title=\"Geometry\"\u003edistal taper - you can read more about it in the article on blade geometry\u003c\/a\u003e.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish, which is the reason this look is called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe engraving on the blade 九佐吉 means: Yoshida Hamono, Saga, Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa hande in an octagonal shape. It is made from rosewood and topped with a ferrule made from cedar wood.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/understanding-japanese-knife-handle-shapes\"\u003eslightly flattened octagonal shape\u003c\/a\u003e of the handle helps it align well with the cutting board, and its symmetrical shape makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis handle provides excellent blade control when slicing. Additionally, the compact grip minimizes the possibility of slipping during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53433556664666,"sku":"0S0108251780","price":108.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/cedra_oktagon__0S0108251780_1.jpg?v=1770367809"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-gyuto-black-ebony-blond-buffalo-210mm","title":"ZDP-189 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\")","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eZDP-189 Gyuto Black Ebony Blond Buffalo 210mm (8.3\")\u003c\/strong\u003e is a multi-purpose knife from our ZDP-189 series, which we designed in collaboration with the Yoshida Hamono smithy. With this series, we fused Japanese tradition and knowledge of blade design and materials processing, and what came out is a versatile kitchen knife made of powder steel that is simple to use and maintain. To top it off, it boasts incredible properties, characteristic of only the best performing and most practical Japanese blades!\u003cbr\u003eHAP-40 Gyuto Black embodies the best characteristics we could possibly expect from a kitchen knife:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe length of the blade (210mm \/ 8.3\") allows for efficient work even with larger chunks of meat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting– sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It can be used with a variety of different cutting techniques to take on a wide range of kitchen tasks. \u003cspan\u003eGyuto stands for “beef sword” in Japanese and was initially used to cut meat. Today, gyuto is one of the most indispensable knives in a kitchen and can do just about everything, obviously also cut a large chunk of beef.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe heart of the knife is made of \u003ca title=\"Japanse powder steel\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189 steel\u003c\/a\u003e, which we selected because systematic testing has proven its superior qualities and long-lasting sharpness. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe steel contains as much as 3% Carbon (C), which is one of the main elements contributing strength and typically found in amounts of up to only 1% in other types of solid steel, while the Chromium (Cr) content, which prevents corrosion, amounts to nearly 20%. It also features 0.60% Tungsten (W), which considerably increases the abrasion resistance of steel, 1.4% Molybdenum (Mo), which helps to preserve the strength and power of steel under variable temperatures, and 0.10% Vanadium (V), the key element in increasing steel strength. \u003cstrong\u003eHeat treatment produces steel with a hardness of 65-67 HRC.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife features a traditional octagonal Japanese handle made from ebony wood, paired with a blonde buffalo horn ferrule. Designed for both left- and right-handed users, it offers a balanced and comfortable grip. Ebony is r\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eenowned for its exceptional hardness and density, which makes it one of the most durable and resistant woods. It is polished to a high gloss, creating a luxurious and elegant appearance and smooth feel that fits into the hand seamlessly. The octagon shape of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, allowing for precise control during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53500622537050,"sku":"0S0103121963","price":304.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40GyutoBlackEbonyBlondBuffalo210mm_limited__00558_1.jpg?v=1756725134"},{"product_id":"yoshida-nakiri-takefu-suj-2-kuro-uchi-165mm-koi-fish","title":"Yoshida Nakiri Takefu SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 165mm (6.5\") [Koi Fish]","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Nakiri Takefu SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 165mm\u003c\/strong\u003e is a a classic Japanese vegetable knife with a straight, tall profile that’s made for fast, precise chopping. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePart of the Yoshida Hamono Kuro-uchi series, this knife is crafted from durable \u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 steel\u003c\/strong\u003e (64.7 HRC), which offers exceptional edge retention and features a kuro-uchi finish for a rustic appearance and added durability. The \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ehigh-end \u003cstrong\u003eebony handle\u003c\/strong\u003e provides a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring precise control while slicing, dicing, and chopping. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eWith its traditional Japanese rustic design and unique \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish engraving\u003c\/strong\u003e, this knife is an ideal choice for anyone looking to purchase their first Japanese blade and makes a \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/japanese-knife-as-gift\"\u003efantastic gift\u003c\/a\u003e for culinary enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is handmade at the Yoshida Hamono Smithy in Saga Prefecture, located in the south of Japan. Every step of the process—\u003cstrong\u003elamination, forging, grinding, and heat treatment—is completed in-house\u003c\/strong\u003e. The extremely thin blade is crafted from SUJ-2 carbon steel, known for its fine particle structure, which enhances cutting precision and provides exceptional sharpness and agility in use. With a hardness of 64.7 HRC, this steel ensures both edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, this high-performance blade does require some extra care—after each use, it should be rinsed and \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/what-is-patina-good-or-bad-on-your-knife\"\u003edried immediately to prevent rust\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo make this knife even more special, we engraved our unique Japanese \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish\u003c\/strong\u003e illustration on the blade. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Japanese koi fish, known for its vibrant colors and graceful movements, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and good fortune. In Japanese tradition, koi are admired for their resilience, as they are said to swim upstream and even transform into dragons, symbolizing the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis design was created by the skilled tattoo artist Iva (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ivatattoo\/\"\u003e@ivatattoo\u003c\/a\u003e), owner of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rozatiger.tattoo\"\u003e@rozatiger.tattoo\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eShe is a passionate fan of all things related to Japan and specializes in Japanese motifs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/nakiri-knives\"\u003eNakiri blade\u003c\/a\u003e, a traditional Japanese knife shape, is specifically designed for cutting vegetables. Its flat edge and squared-off tip allow for efficient chopping and slicing, making it a preferred choice for prep cooks who handle a substantial volume of vegetables daily. The blade's straight edge provides optimal and stable contact with the cutting board and allows for fluid movement, providing the user with enhanced control and maneuverability. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eTakefu blade is wide and has no upward curve at the tip—giving it maximum contact with the cutting board for clean, efficient cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With an above-average hardness of 64+ HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop some patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen, and stays sharp for a very long time. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-maintenance-oils\"\u003eBallistol or Camellia oil\u003c\/a\u003e is recommended for the care of such blades\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eAfter use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 CHARACTERISTICS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e SUJ-2 steel offers outstanding hardness (64.7 HRC), ensuring a long-lasting edge that stays sharp even with frequent use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine Particle Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its fine grain structure allows for precision sharpening, resulting in an incredibly sharp, precise edge ideal for detailed cutting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Durability: \u003c\/strong\u003eSUJ-2 is highly resistant to wear, maintaining its performance and sharpness over time, even with heavy use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Edge Retention: \u003c\/strong\u003eKnown for its ability to hold an edge, SUJ-2 steel requires less frequent sharpening, making it convenient for daily kitchen tasks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eChemical structure: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e0.95% - 1.10% carbon (C), 1.30% - 1.60% chromium (Cr), 0.25% - 0.45% manganese (Mn), 0.15% - 0.35% silicon (Si), with maximum levels of 0.025% phosphorus (P) and 0.025% sulfur (S).\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the\u003cstrong\u003e san-mai method\u003c\/strong\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eViewed from the back of the blade, the knife is heavier and stronger at the handle and thinner and more precise at the tip. This blade shape makes the knife easier to use because the blade is very responsive, easily maneuverable and nicely balanced. This type of blade design is also called \u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edistal taper - you can read more about it in the article on blade geometry\u003c\/a\u003e.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish, which is the reason this look is called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe engraving on the blade 九佐吉 means: Yoshida Hamono, Saga, Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa handle in an octagonal shape, crafted from chocolate brown \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/what-are-japanese-knife-handles-made-of\"\u003eebony wood and topped with a ferrule made of light-colored buffalo horn\u003c\/a\u003e. Ebony is a rare and precious wood with an exceptionally hard and dense structure, making the handle highly durable and resistant to moisture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/understanding-japanese-knife-handle-shapes\"\u003eslightly flattened octagonal shape\u003c\/a\u003e of the handle helps it align well with the cutting board, and its symmetrical shape makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis handle provides excellent blade control when slicing. Additionally, the compact grip minimizes the possibility of slipping during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53500848898394,"sku":"0S0106091954","price":144.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaNakiriTakefuSUJ-2Kuro-uchi165mm_KoiFish__0S0106091954_2.jpg?v=1770276701"},{"product_id":"yoshida-ajikiri-suj-2-kuro-uchi-100mm-koi-fish","title":"Yoshida Ajikiri SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 100mm (3.9\") [Koi Fish]","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eHandcrafted in Japan, this small \u003cstrong\u003eAjikiri knife\u003c\/strong\u003e was made for filleting small fish but excels at chopping, slicing, and quick meal prep. Its wide SUJ-2 steel blade delivers razor-sharp precision, while the ergonomic handle ensures comfort and control. Perfect for home cooks and pros alike, or as a gift for lovers of Japanese craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eWith its traditional Japanese rustic design and unique \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish engraving\u003c\/strong\u003e, this knife is an ideal choice for anyone looking to purchase their first Japanese blade and makes a \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/japanese-knife-as-gift\"\u003efantastic gift\u003c\/a\u003e for culinary enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThe blade is handmade at the Yoshida Hamono Smithy in Saga Prefecture, located in the south of Japan. Every step of the process—\u003cstrong\u003elamination, forging, grinding, and heat treatment—is completed in-house\u003c\/strong\u003e. The extremely thin blade is crafted from SUJ-2 carbon steel, known for its fine particle structure, which enhances cutting precision and provides exceptional sharpness and agility in use. With a hardness of 64.7 HRC, this steel ensures both edge retention and ease of sharpening. However, this high-performance blade does require some extra care—after each use, it should be rinsed and \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/what-is-patina-good-or-bad-on-your-knife\"\u003edried immediately to prevent rust\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo make this knife even more special, we engraved our unique Japanese \u003cstrong\u003ekoi fish\u003c\/strong\u003e illustration on the blade. \u003c\/span\u003eThe Japanese koi fish, known for its vibrant colors and graceful movements, is a symbol of strength, perseverance, and good fortune. In Japanese tradition, koi are admired for their resilience, as they are said to swim upstream and even transform into dragons, symbolizing the ability to overcome obstacles and achieve greatness.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis design was created by the skilled tattoo artist Iva (\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ivatattoo\/\"\u003e@ivatattoo\u003c\/a\u003e), owner of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rozatiger.tattoo\"\u003e@rozatiger.tattoo\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe is a passionate fan of all things related to Japan and specializes in Japanese motifs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe ajikiri is a smaller, thinner version of the traditional \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knife-types\/japanese-deba-knife-everything-you-need-to-know\"\u003eJapanese deba knife\u003c\/a\u003e. It is designed for smaller fish, such as mackerel, from which its name is derived - in Japanese, 'Aji' means mackerel, and combined with the word 'kiri' (jap. knife), the name \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e鯵切 ajikiri \u003c\/span\u003eliterally means 'a knife for a mackerel'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse for: Filleting small fish, precise trimming, vegetables, garnishes\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSTEEL:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With an above-average hardness of 64+ HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop some patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen, and stays sharp for a very long time. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/knife-maintenance-oils\"\u003eBallistol or Camellia oil\u003c\/a\u003e is recommended for the care of such blades\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003eAfter use, rinse it well and dry it.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSUJ-2 CHARACTERISTICS:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Hardness:\u003c\/strong\u003e SUJ-2 steel offers outstanding hardness (64.7 HRC), ensuring a long-lasting edge that stays sharp even with frequent use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFine Particle Structure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its fine grain structure allows for precision sharpening, resulting in an incredibly sharp, precise edge ideal for detailed cutting.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHigh Durability: \u003c\/strong\u003eSUJ-2 is highly resistant to wear, maintaining its performance and sharpness over time, even with heavy use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Edge Retention: \u003c\/strong\u003eKnown for its ability to hold an edge, SUJ-2 steel requires less frequent sharpening, making it convenient for daily kitchen tasks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eChemical structure: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e0.95% - 1.10% carbon (C), 1.30% - 1.60% chromium (Cr), 0.25% - 0.45% manganese (Mn), 0.15% - 0.35% silicon (Si), with maximum levels of 0.025% phosphorus (P) and 0.025% sulfur (S).\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade’s core was laminated using the\u003cstrong\u003e san-mai method\u003c\/strong\u003e to improve its structural integrity and subsequent ability to withstand impacts and prevent chipping. San-mai translates to “three layers” in Japanese, referring to a blade that is composed of a primary, inner layer of harder steel (hagane) and of two secondary, outer layers of softer steel (jigane) that protect the prior.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e→ Read more on \u003ca href=\"blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003eBlade Construction: Lamination\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade\u003c\/a\u003e (50\/50) with a convex v-edge grind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eViewed from the back of the blade, the knife is heavier and stronger at the handle and thinner and more precise at the tip. This blade shape makes the knife easier to use because the blade is very responsive, easily maneuverable and nicely balanced. This type of blade design is also called \u003ca title=\"Geometry\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003edistal taper - you can read more about it in the article on blade geometry\u003c\/a\u003e.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish, which is the reason this look is called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe engraving on the blade 九佐吉 means: Yoshida Hamono, Saga, Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is fitted with a traditional Japanese wa handle in an octagonal shape, crafted from chocolate brown \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/what-are-japanese-knife-handles-made-of\"\u003eebony wood and topped with a ferrule made of light-colored buffalo horn\u003c\/a\u003e. Ebony is a rare and precious wood with an exceptionally hard and dense structure, making the handle highly durable and resistant to moisture.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/understanding-japanese-knife-handle-shapes\"\u003eslightly flattened octagonal shape\u003c\/a\u003e of the handle helps it align well with the cutting board, and its symmetrical shape makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed users.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis handle provides excellent blade control when slicing. Additionally, the compact grip minimizes the possibility of slipping during use.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53501068214618,"sku":"0S0107321955","price":108.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/YoshidaAjikiriSUJ-2Kuro-uchi100mm_KoiFish__0S0107321955_2.jpg?v=1770276849"},{"product_id":"hap-40-santoku-black-gold-carbon-180mm","title":"HAP-40 Santoku Black Gold Carbon 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"22\" data-end=\"287\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHAP-40 Santoku Black Gold Carbon 180mm\u003c\/strong\u003e is a high-performance Japanese knife \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003edeveloped in collaboration with Yoshida Hamono. Its extremely hard HAP-40 powder steel core delivers exceptional edge retention for faster, smoother, and more precise everyday prep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"289\" data-end=\"511\"\u003eThe santoku shape is easy to control and works beautifully for vegetables, herbs, meat, and fish. A resin-infused carbon fiber handle with gold flakes adds durability, easy maintenance, and a more substantial feel in hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"513\" data-end=\"653\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eA striking, practical santoku for users who want long-lasting sharpness, everyday versatility, and a knife that looks as special as it cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eSantoku is a universal knife that excels at all types of cutting and chopping tasks on a cutting board. The Japanese word \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003esantoku\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e roughly translates to “knife of three virtues” (\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003esan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e means “three”) and may refer to the wide array of ingredients that the knife can handle (meat, fish and vegetables) or to the tasks it can perform (slicing, chopping and dicing).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVersatile use: meat, fish and vegetables.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIts shape is designed for a speedy chopping of greens on a kitchen board.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAllows easy, simple cutting technique also for inexperienced cooks.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe blade tapers off towards the tip and lends itself perfectly to precise work with food.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine – and extremely long-lasting – sharpness.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery hard powder steel with a hardness of 68 HRC. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSimple maintenance and sharpening.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHitachi\u003cstrong\u003e HAP-40 \u003c\/strong\u003esteel fits into the category of modern and technologically advanced steels. HAP-40 is fine-grained enough to sharpen very well, and knives from this steel keep their sharpness 3-5 times longer than traditional knives. An interesting fact is that, considering it is a powder steel, it has an extremely small content of chromium (around 4%) and can react as a high-carbon steel in specific circumstances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis steel is heat-treated to an incredible \u003cstrong\u003e68 HRC\u003c\/strong\u003e, yet it can still be relatively easily sharpened on whetstones. It is extremely tough, and so not as likely to chip along the edge as the steel used in traditional knives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOsamu-san chose a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ewarikomi\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e (also called “split and insert”) method. A glowing hot piece of iron is split and a piece of steel is inserted. The new material is now forged into one piece composed of a very hard steel core in a jacket of two external layers of softer, stainless steel. This creates a highly durable kitchen knife with a slightly more pliable core. The main advantage of these knives is that they are thin, sharp and retain their edge very well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt has a \u003cstrong\u003edouble bevel (symmetrical) blade.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE FINISH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe blade has a dark finish which is the reason why this look is also called \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-blade-finish\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ekuro-uchi\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e - the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis blade is fitted with a \u003cstrong\u003eresin-infused carbon fiber wa handle\u003c\/strong\u003e, featuring a deep black resin sprinkled with gold flakes, and crowned with a traditional buffalo horn ferrule.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis modern composite is non-porous and waterproof, as well as highly resistant to cracking and warping, making it exceptionally easy to maintain and long-lasting. Unlike traditional wood, this dense material gives the handle a more substantial feel, shifting the balance point toward the handle similarly to a Western (Yo) style knife.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/blacksmiths-japan\/producer-yoshida-hamono\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54170812285274,"sku":"0S0108102030","price":284.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/HAP-40_Santoku_Black_Gold_Carbon_180_mm_0S0108102030_1.jpg?v=1780925453"},{"product_id":"zdp-189-santoku-silver-gold-carbon-180mm","title":"ZDP-189 Santoku Silver Gold Carbon 180mm (7.1\")","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"0\" data-end=\"260\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eZDP-189 Santoku Silver Gold Carbon 180mm\u003c\/strong\u003e is a high-performance Japanese knife developed in collaboration with Yoshida Hamono. Its extremely hard ZDP-189 powder steel core delivers exceptional edge retention for faster, smoother, and more precise everyday prep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"262\" data-end=\"484\"\u003eThe santoku shape is easy to control and works beautifully for vegetables, herbs, meat, and fish. A resin-infused carbon fiber handle with gold flakes adds durability, easy maintenance, and a more substantial feel in hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"486\" data-end=\"625\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eA refined, practical santoku for users who want long-lasting sharpness, everyday versatility, and a knife that looks as special as it cuts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLADE SHAPE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe name \"Santoku\" derives from the Japanese word \"San,\" meaning \"three,\" representing the knife's three virtues. It effortlessly handles three key ingredients: meat, fish, and vegetables. It is equally adept at slicing, chopping, and mincing, making it a versatile companion in the kitchen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTEEL:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/steel-heart-of-japanese-knives\"\u003eZDP-189\u003c\/a\u003e is a high-carbon stainless powder steel with approximately 3% carbon and 20% chromium, offering exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. With a Rockwell hardness of 65–67 HRC, this steel allows for an extremely sharp, long-lasting edge. The steel also contains tungsten, molybdenum, and vanadium to enhance wear resistance and structural integrity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eZDP-189 composition: C 3.00 % | Cr 20.00 % | W 0.60 % | Mo 1.40 % | V 0.10 % | Mn 0.50 % | Si 0.40 %\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLAMINATION:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe \u003ca title=\"Lamination\" href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-lamination\"\u003esteel is laminated\u003c\/a\u003e, meaning that the core is made of very strong steel covered with an external layer of softer stainless steel - also known as \u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003ewarikomi \u003c\/i\u003eclad\u003c\/strong\u003e. The softer external layer protects the core steel from external factors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGEOMETRY:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis double-bevel santoku knife has a \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/knives-101\/blade-construction-geometry\"\u003eV-edge grind\u003c\/a\u003e and a low-profile blade shape, ideal for slicing, dicing, and chopping vegetables, fish, and meat. The geometry supports precise cuts with minimal resistance, making it versatile for both professional chefs and home cooks. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eBLADE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e FINISH:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe blade surface is polished to a subtle mirror hairline finish with a delicate tsuchime (hammered) texture, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi—finding beauty in imperfection and uniqueness. Each knife is individually forged, so no two are exactly the same.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHANDLE:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis blade is fitted with a \u003cstrong\u003eresin-infused carbon fiber wa handle\u003c\/strong\u003e, featuring a deep black resin sprinkled with gold flakes, and crowned with a traditional buffalo horn ferrule.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis modern composite is non-porous and waterproof, as well as highly resistant to cracking and warping, making it exceptionally easy to maintain and long-lasting. Unlike traditional wood, this dense material gives the handle a more substantial feel, shifting the balance point toward the handle similarly to a Western (Yo) style knife.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBLACKSMITH:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe knife is manufactured at the smithy of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/yoshida-hamono\" title=\"Yoshida Hamono knives\"\u003eYoshida Hamono\u003c\/a\u003e in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords (katanas) by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner. \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/learn\/producer-yoshida-hamono\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSee the photo story from our visit to their smithy\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"background-color: #f6f6f6;\"\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"padding: 30px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe knife is laminated, forged, and heat-treated by the blacksmith in his workshop in southern Japan. The final finish retains a rustic, robust character, showcasing the craftsmanship of a purely handmade blade. As a result, each piece is entirely unique.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e","brand":"Yoshida Hamono","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54170899284314,"sku":"0S0108102031","price":280.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/files\/ZDP-189_Santoku_Silver_Gold_Carbon_180_mm_0S0108102031_1.jpg?v=1780925401"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2077\/0683\/collections\/FD02_Ernest_in_Ira-2-3.jpg?v=1781087622","url":"https:\/\/sharpedgeshop.com\/collections\/fathers-day.oembed?page=3","provider":"SharpEdge","version":"1.0","type":"link"}