Japanese craftsmanship at the service of cutlery
Kanetsugu Forge, founded in 1955, is a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship in the world of Japanese cutlery. With expertise handed down from generation to generation, Kosuke Muneishi, the current master blacksmith, oversees the handcrafted production of each knife. From forging to tempering, hammering and sharpening, every step is carried out by hand, resulting in knives that combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology.
As production is artisanal, stocks of the Yuzo Tsuchime range are limited and restocking times may vary, making each knife unique and exclusive.
San Maï structure for optimum cutting performance
The Yuzo Tsuchime VG10 knife features a San Maï blade, a traditional Japanese technique involving the superimposition of three layers of steel: a hard core and two softer layers. The core is made of Aogami 2 (Blue #2 Steel), a top-of-the-range Japanese steel from the renowned Hitachi steelworks, with a carbon content of 1.2%, giving it a hardness of 60 HRC on the Rockwell scale. This material provides a sharp, long-lasting cutting edge, ideal for clean, precise cuts.
Around the hard core, a layer of soft iron is added to enhance flexibility and reduce the risk of breakage. This combination ensures smooth cutting, even during the most demanding cutting tasks.
The characteristic damask patterns created by the superimposed steel layers form beautiful waves along the cutting surface, adding both optimum functionality and unique aesthetics.
VG10 steel for ultimate strength
The VG10 steel used in the core of Yuzo Tsuchime knives is an alloy renowned for its durability and corrosion resistance, thanks to a 15% chromium content. This ensures that your knife will effectively resist moisture and stains, while retaining its sharpness over time.
Blade polishing also offers enhanced corrosion protection and a glossy finish that highlights the unique damascus patterns. In addition, traditional Tsuchime hammering, applied by hand, creates a distinctive visual effect and enhances the non-stick properties of the blade, preventing food from sticking to its surface during cutting.
Rosewood handle for exceptional comfort and grip
The handles of Yuzo Tsuchime VG10 knives are made from rosewood, an exotic wood particularly prized for its beauty and strength. This wood is particularly appreciated for its density and resistance to humidity, making it ideal for use in the kitchen.
This wood features unique veins on each knife, ensuring that each piece is truly individual. The handle is complemented by a quince wood bolster, offering a smooth transition between blade and handle, and by a fine white ring that adds a touch of elegant contrast.
The octagonal handle is ergonomically designed to provide optimum comfort for cooks' hands, whether right- or left-handed. Its shape ensures a solid, balanced grip, essential for precise, effortless cutting.
Care and maintenance to preserve the beauty of your knife
To maintain the beauty and performance of your Yuzo Tsuchime VG10 knife, proper care is essential. Wash it by hand in lukewarm water with a mild soap, then dry it immediately to remove all traces of moisture. We recommend avoiding soaking the knife in the sink or putting it through the dishwasher.
The blade can be lightly oiled on receipt to protect it. To prevent oxidation, we recommend wiping the blade with a soft cloth soaked in mineral oil from time to time. As the wood of the handle is sensitive to humidity, take care not to get it too wet, and dry it thoroughly after each use.
By taking good care of your knife, you guarantee its longevity and performance for many years to come.