A kiritsuke with a very effective blade
The kiritsuke features a 17cm blade made of damascus steel. It features a rigid steel core, surrounded by several layers of softer steel to protect it. This structure is highly advantageous in the kitchen: the blade offers a rigid, durable cutting edge, while benefiting from a balanced surface thanks to the layers of steel that surround it. These layers also provide "flexibility" to the core, reducing the risk of breakage.
The core of the blade is made from Japanese Ginsan steel, also known as G3 or Silver 3. This steel, which contains around 0.95% carbon, offers high hardness and rigidity for prolonged edge retention. Thanks to a chromium content of around 13.5%, the blade also boasts excellent corrosion resistance. With a hardness of 59/60 HRC, this knife is easy to maintain, requiring only a simple stone sharpening to maintain optimum edge retention.
The blade features authentic hand-engraved kanji meaning "Kaishin". These kanji recall the brand and add character and authenticity to your knife.
Octagonal rosewood handle
The knife's handle is made from rosewood, an exotic wood renowned for its strength and resistance to moisture. This dense species offers magnificent nuances unique to each knife. Being a living material, the wood's appearance can vary from one knife to the next, which is what gives it its charm. Its shades range from brown to dark red, with beautiful dark veins that add contrast to the whole.
Your knife has an octagonal handle, a shape designed for maximum ergonomics, suitable for both left- and right-handed users. The handle adapts perfectly to the palm of your hand, guaranteeing enhanced comfort, much appreciated during prolonged cutting.
A red Pakkawood Bolster links the blade to the handle. This is complemented by wood pulp that seals the knife, preventing water and food from seeping through. Pakkawood is a material composed of laminated wood and resin, and is antibacterial and resistant to temperature variations. Its red color adds a warm touch to the look of your knife.
Left: Shogo Yamatsuka / right: Fujii Keiichi
Shogo Yamatsuka's work for Nakamura
Nakamura is a Japanese company established in 2015 as an artisan workshop. It calls on the best Japanese blacksmiths and sharpeners, whose expertise results in the creation of knives of exceptional visual quality and performance. The company has launched its own brand, Kaishin (魁心), which highlights what like-minded craftsmen can achieve together."Kai" (魁) means "pioneer", and"Shin" (心) "spirit". With this innovative spirit, Nakamura Kaishin aims to bring you the finest knives ever conceived.
This Kiritsuke knife is the work of Sakai-based blacksmith Shogo Yamatsuka. The son of a blacksmith, Shogo was quickly attracted to the craft and became his father's apprentice. Specializing in Ginsan steel, Yamatsuka san passed on all the secrets of this high-end alloy to his son. Shogo, determined to excel in the art of forging, has devoted almost 30 years to mastering the hot working of Ginsan steel, becoming the only blacksmith to possess this skill. His passion and commitment to this craft have been recognized by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, which has awarded him the prestigious title of Master Traditional Craftsman.
Fujii Hamono's experts, led by Fujii Keiichi, then sharpened the knife. The company uses large grinding wheels. The craftsmen use all their know-how and experience to give your knife an incomparable edge.
The right care for my Japanese knife kitchen knife
Made from high-quality materials, this knife requires meticulous care, starting with proper cleaning. Wash only by hand with mild soap and a non-abrasive sponge. Never leave it in the sink to soak, and never put it in the dishwasher. After each cleaning, dry the knife thoroughly with a soft cloth to remove all traces of moisture. Once dry, store it safely in its case to preserve its quality and elegance for years to come.
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