A Hatsukokoro Chinese chef' s knife with a raw, refined style
The Hatsukokoro Sentan Migaki 17cm Chinese chef's knife embodies the perfect balance between Japanese tradition and functional design. Designed for the precise cutting of vegetables, it features a wide, thin blade that is ideal for sweeping the board with fluidity. Hand-forged in Japan, this knife combines high-performance carbon steel with a sober, authentic look. It's the perfect companion for cooking enthusiasts looking for a finely forged knife.
A high-performance knife with a carefully crafted blade
The 17cm blade of the Hatsukokoro Chinese chef's knife has been forged using the San Maï structure, a Japanese technique that consists of surrounding a rigid steel core with two layers of softer steel.
The core of the blade is made of Japanese Shirogami #2 steel, an alloy containing around 1.1% carbon. This steel is renowned for its exceptional sharpness and ease of sharpening. Surrounding the core is a layer of softerstainless steel, folded over on either side, which plays a protective role.
This design allows the knife to benefit from the advantages of carbon steel (sharpness, fine cutting angle), while reducing the risk of corrosion thanks to the presence of the top layer of stainless steel. It's an ideal balance between cutting performance and long-term durability.
The blade reaches a hardness of 61 HRC, and its edge remains effective for a long time, without being difficult to maintain. Theflat cutting edge optimizes contact between blade and food, ensuring precise, resistance-free cutting. Finally, the blade features both a rough Nashiji finish and a polished Migaki finish. This gives the blade a beautiful, hand-crafted look and reduces food sticking to the blade, a real plus in everyday cooking.
A rustic maple handle
The knife's handle is made of maple, a light-colored wood that lends a natural touch to the whole. Carved in a round shape, the handle is comfortable in the hand and suitable for ambidextrous use. Its rustic appearance contrasts subtly with the blade's polished finish, creating a beautiful visual balance.
This handle has been deliberately left without a bolster or too-smooth finish, enjoying a raw aesthetic that will appeal to lovers of authenticity. Lightweight and easy to handle, it ensures good control when cutting, reducing the fatigue associated with prolonged use. This uncluttered style is typical of artisan Japanese cutlery, where the emphasis is on functionality and simplicity of materials.
Key features & benefits of the Chinese chef's knife
- 17cm San Maï blade: hard core protected by soft steel
- Shirogami #2 steel (1.1% carbon): clean cutting edge, easy maintenance
- 61 HRC
hardness- : very long edge retention
- Nahsiji and Migaki finishes: rough, polished appearance, non-stick food
- Flat cutting edge: clean cut, ideal for vegetables and herbs
- Round maple handle: ambidextrous grip, rustic style
- Varnished blue case: ideal for gift-giving or careful storage
- Handcrafted in Japan: authenticity and expertise
Taking good care of your Hatsukokoro Japanese knife
As this Sentan handcrafted Japanese knife has a carbon-enriched steel blade, it requires special care. Hand-wash only with a soft cloth, and dry immediately after use. Do not leave in prolonged contact with moisture, and do not put in the dishwasher. For sharpening, use a Japanese stone with a suitable grain. Store in a dry place, in its box, on a magnetic bar or in a wooden saya.
Over time, a gray patina may appear on the blade. This is a natural phenomenon, as the carbon in the steel reacts with ambient air and humidity. The patina does not affect the knife's cutting performance, and its traditional appearance is much appreciated.
The meticulous work of Hatsukokoro
Hatsukokoro is a Japanese company that selects talented blacksmiths to produce high-quality knives. The Sentan Migaki Chinese chef's knife is the result of meticulous work carried out in small Japanese workshops, in the heart of regions renowned for their cutlery tradition. This artisanal approach guarantees knives of consistent performance and unique design. "Hatsukokoro" translates as "original heart", illustrating the company's determination to preserve the soul of the artisanal gesture in every piece produced.
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