A Japanese chef's knife with coppery highlights
This Takeshi Saji BS2 Rainbow Japanese chef's knife combines a versatile 21 cm length with a damascened blade featuring copper and gold hues. Handcrafted in Japan, it features an Aogami #2 steel core layered with decorative layers of stainless steel, copper, and brass. Its mirror finish reveals a pattern that varies from knife to knife, while its Western-style handle provides a familiar grip. A piece of Japanese cutlery with a distinctive character, designed to handle everyday cutting tasks with precision!
An Aogami #2 blade with rainbow-colored highlights
The 21-cm blade features a damascene structure: layers of soft steel are wrapped around a rigid core. This core is made of Japanese Aogami #2 steel (also known as Blue Paper Steel #2), containing approximately 1.2% carbon. This high-carbon steel delivers a fine edge and excellent cutting performance. Its hardness of approximately 62 HRC helps the blade retain its edge; it also means you’ll need to use a suitable cutting board and avoid impacts.
The outer layers consist of stainless steel, copper, and brass. Their alternating pattern creates a damascene design with rainbow hues (hence the name “Rainbow”) that is unique to each knife. The mirror polish highlights the contrasts and reflections of this blade structure.
The flat grind ensures a smooth, even cut, suitable for both pushing and pulling motions when preparing vegetables, fruits, fish, and boneless meats. Since the Aogami #2 core is sensitive to moisture, the blade must be washed and dried immediately after use.
A Western-style handle with copper accents
The handle is made of resin with flecks of copper-colored Corian®. The decorative inclusions echo the metallic hues of the blade and create a visually cohesive design. Its Western-style shape offers a familiar grip, distinct from traditional Japanese handles, which are typically octagonal or oval. The curved heel helps keep the hand in place and stabilizes the grip during cutting.
Two stainless steel rivets secure the handle. Between them, a central mosaic adds an extra decorative detail. At the front, the gold-plated stainless steel bolster creates a contrasting transition between the blade and the resin. The design combines contemporary materials with Japanese craftsmanship. To preserve its appearance, avoid impacts and soaking; wipe the handle dry if it gets wet, and store the knife in a dry place.
Features and Benefits
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- 21 cm blade: a versatile size for everyday cutting tasks
- Aogami #2 steel core: a fine, precise edge
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- Rockwell hardness of 62 HRC: long-lasting edge hold
- Damascene structure of stainless steel, copper, and brass: unique rainbow pattern
- Mirror-polished finish: highlights the damascene layers
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- Flat grind: consistent cut for linear strokes
- Resin and copper-plated Corian® handle: sturdy and elegant
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- Western-style curved heel: familiar and stable grip
- Two stainless
- steel
- rivets and central mosaic: secure assembly and decorative detail
- Gold-plated stainless steel bolster: contrast and balance
- Forged by Takeshi Saji: Japanese craftsmanship
Usage and Care Instructions
Use this knife on a wooden cutting board or a soft synthetic surface. It is not designed for cutting bones, frozen foods, or twisting motions, which may damage the hard edge. Wash the blade by hand with a soft sponge, then dry it immediately: the Aogami #2 core can oxidize if left damp. Do not let it soak, and do not put it in the dishwasher. When sharpening, use a whetstone suitable for hard steels.
The Craftsmanship of Takeshi Saji
Takeshi Saji is a Japanese blacksmith based in Takefu Knife Village, in Fukui Prefecture. This knife-making village brings together artisans who work using regional techniques. Recognized as a Traditional Master Craftsman in the 1990s, Saji handcrafts knives by experimenting with different blade constructions and material combinations. His creations include kitchen knives and outdoor knives. The Rainbow series showcases his work with damascened layers and color contrasts: the pattern results from the combination of several materials and varies from piece to piece.
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