The Japanese Take on the Chinese Chef's Knife: Hatsukokoro Sentan
ThisJapanese Hatsukokoro Sentan Kurouchi Migaki Chinese chef’s knifeembodies a Japanese interpretation of the famous Chinese design, crafted to deliver both power and precision in a single tool. Handcrafted in Japan, it features a 17-cm wide blade and traditional forging techniques. This handcrafted Chinese chef’s knife makes it easy to slice, dice, and transfer food thanks to its generous surface area. It’s ideal for those seeking a versatile knife capable of handling large volumes while maintaining excellent control.
A wide, technically advanced blade for precise cutting
The 17-cm blade features a shape typical of Chinese chef’s knives, offering a large working surface. It makes it easy to cut vegetables, herbs, and boneless meats, and also allows you to scoop food off the cutting board.
Its San Mai construction features a hard core surrounded by layers of softer stainless steel. This design protects the blade while preserving the cutting qualities of the core. The core is made of JapaneseAogami #2 steel, containing approximately 1.2% carbon, renowned for its sharp edge and ability to maintain performance over time.
With a hardness of approximately 62 HRC on the Rockwell scale, the edge retains its sharpness over time while remaining easy to maintain.The flat grind ensures smooth penetration into food, minimizing friction during cutting.
The blade features a dark, forged Kurouchi finish on its upper surface. It has not been polished to emphasize the knife’s artisanal character and helps protect the surface from oxidation. Kanji characters have been engraved on the blade as a finishing touch.
A maple handle with a natural grip
The handle is crafted from maple wood, a species prized for its light color and smooth texture. Maple feels comfortable in the hand, making it suitable for extended use.
Its rounded shape promotes a smooth grip, allowing you to easily adjust your movements depending on the techniques you’re using. This design naturally follows your movements, whether you’re slicing quickly or making more precise cuts.
The knife is well-balanced, making it comfortable to use despite the blade’s width. This design allows you to move seamlessly from one task to the next.
Features at a Glance
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- 17 cm blade: wide surface for easy handling of food
- San Mai construction: durability and protection of the core
- Aogami #2 steel (1.2% carbon): precise and long-lasting edge
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- Hardness 62 HRC: excellent edge retention
- Kurouchi finish: authenticity and protection against oxidation
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- Flat grind: smooth and consistent cut
- Maple handle: natural comfort in the
hand
- Round shape: maneuverability and freedom of movement
- Handcrafted in Japan: meticulous and authentic workmanship
Daily Use and Care
Use this knife on a wooden or soft-surface cutting board to preserve the edge. Avoid bones, very hard foods, or frozen foods. Wash it by hand immediately after use, then dry it thoroughly to minimize oxidation marks caused by the carbon steel core. Sharpening with a whetstone is recommended to maintain its performance. Store the knife in a dry place, using a blade guard if necessary.
Handcrafted in Japan
Hatsukokoro Sentan knives reflect Japanese craftsmanship faithful to traditional methods. Each knife is designed with particular attention to balance and cutting quality. The combination of renowned carbon steel and a Kurouchi finish reflects a commitment to preserving the authenticity of the forging process.
These knives are designed to offer a direct, unadorned cutting experience, using materials chosen for their effectiveness and durability. This approach highlights what matters most: a high-performance blade, a functional handle, and a cohesive design.
Explore our complete selection of Chinese chef’s knives to round out your collection!