Hatsukokoro Shirasagi 33cm handmade Japanese yanagiba knife wenge handle

The Japanese brand Hatsukokoro offers kitchen knives forged by renowned craftsmen. This yanagiba was made by Japanese blacksmith Toru Tamura, while the sharpening was carried out by Tateo Myojin.

Toru Tamura discovered his passion for cutlery while working in Canada, surrounded by top-quality knives. He then decided to return to Japan to concentrate on learning forging techniques. He trained at the prestigious Takefu Knife Village, a place of transmission and exchange between blacksmiths, under the tutelage of master blacksmith Hiroshi Kato, a recognized expert in his field!

After completing his apprenticeship, Toru Tamura specialized in knives with asymmetrical blades, remaining faithful to traditional techniques. He collaborates with other renowned craftsmen, such as the Myojin family, a benchmark in sharpening. For this yanagiba knife, Tateo Myojin was in charge of sharpening, applying his know-how to the asymmetrical cutting edges.

This Japanese knife thus embodies an exceptional collaboration between two talented craftsmen, guaranteeing an authentic, traditional piece!

A Japanese knife for all hands

The blade of this yanagiba knife is crafted using the traditional Japanese technique of San Maï (meaning "three layers"). This process consists of forging a core of rigid steel, surrounded by a layer of softer steel that folds around it. This combines hardness and flexibility, while protecting the core of the blade.

The core of this blade is made from Japanese Aogami #2 steel, also known as Blue Paper Steel 2, a high-quality alloy designed by the renowned steelmaker Hitachi. With a carbon content of around 1.2%, this steel gives your blade great hardness, enhancing its effectiveness. With a hardness of 62HRC on the Rockwell scale, the blade delivers a sharp, long-lasting edge!

To preserve the edge, we recommend using sharpening stones when necessary. Like most yanagiba knives, this blade has an asymmetrical cutting edge, meaning that only one side is sharpened. This makes it particularly suitable for right-handed cooks, enabling thin, even slices to be cut.

Finally, to complete the San Maï structure, the softer steel layers surrounding the core add extra protection while increasing the blade's flexibility, without making it too pliable, thus minimizing the risk of breakage. Along the edge, you can admire the delicate patterns created by the superimposed layers of steel, forming an elegant wave.

The blade of this Japanese kitchen knife has a rough forged finish, without polishing, giving it a dark, rustic appearance. Highly appreciated by Japanese chefs for its traditional look, this design is complemented by hand-engraved kanji, reinforcing the knife's authenticity.

The handle, made from wenge wood, stands out for its strength and resistance to humidity. This tropical wood, with its dark tones and distinctive grain, makes each handle a unique piece, because wood, as a living material, varies from one knife to the next!

To enhance the handle, a black buffalo horn bolster is added at the junction with the blade, ensuring optimal balance to this handcrafted Japanese knife.

Thanks to its octagonal shape, the Shirasagi knife fits comfortably in every cook's hand, offering an ergonomic grip that remains pleasant even during prolonged use in the kitchen!

Finally, wood paste is applied to the point where the blade meets the handle to fill any gaps. This guarantees a complete seal, preventing the infiltration of water or food residues.

Care and maintenance of a handcrafted yanagiba knife

To care for your Japanese kitchen knife, wash it by hand only, using a soft sponge and avoiding exposing the handle to water. Once cleaned, dry immediately with a cloth to remove all traces of moisture, then store in a dry place. Do not put in the dishwasher, or leave to soak in the sink.

Over time, the blade may take on a slight patina, which is perfectly normal. This variation in color is due to the reaction of carbon to the acidity of food and ambient humidity, and has no impact on the performance of your yanagiba knife!

Choose a handcrafted Japanese knife on Knifeleader.eu!