VG10 Makoto Kurosaki Kodama 16,5cm Japanese handmade santoku knife

Makoto Kurosaki is a blacksmith based in Echizen, Japan. His workshop is located in the heart of the Takefu Knife Village, an emblematic place for Japanese cutlery where ancestral techniques are passed on. Here, talented craftsmen perpetuate a know-how recognized far beyond Japan's borders.

Trained by Hiroshi Kato San, master blacksmith and co-founder of Takefu Knife Village, Kurosaki San has acquired exceptional expertise in forging. Under the guidance of this master, who has been forging knives for over 50 years, he has perfected his art to create Japanese kitchen knives of remarkable quality.

A specialist in sharpening, Makoto Kurosaki pays particular attention to the finish of his blades, offering cutting performance tailored to the demands of the most fastidious cooks.

The Makoto Kurosaki Kodama range, which means "spirit of the tree", evokes both nature and Japanese folklore. This damask knife is the perfect embodiment, with its satin-finish blade and wood handle in warm hues reminiscent of Japanese forests.

A refined blade for a handcrafted knife by Kurosaki

This santoku knife features a damascus steel blade, a technique consisting of forging a rigid core surrounded by several layers of softer steel. This structure balances the blade's hardness while offering additional protection to its core.

The core of this Japanese knife is made from VG10 steel, a high-end alloy produced by the renowned Takefu Special Steel company. Composed of around 1% carbon, this steel gives your blade a hardness of 60HRC on the Rockwell scale, guaranteeing excellent edge retention and optimal cutting performance!

Despite its high hardness, VG10 steel is easy to maintain. Simply stone-sharpen the blade when necessary!

To complete the damascus structure, several layers of softer stainless steel wrap around the core, improving the blade's strength and reducing the risk of breakage during use. These superimposed steels create a unique pattern across the entire surface of the blade, offering a singularly refined visual experience.

In addition to its superb damask pattern, the blade features an elegant satin finish. Engraved kanji round off the design, adding a touch of authentic Japanese craftsmanship!

A santoku knife with an elegant, resistant handle

This damascus knife features a handle made from rosewood, an exotic species renowned for its robustness. Its warm nuances and marked veining give it a refined, warm aesthetic. As each piece is unique, no two handles are exactly alike, making your Japanese santoku knife even more distinctive.

A turquoise-green pakkawood bolster completes the handle and provides the transition to the blade. This composite material, composed of laminated wood and resin, combines strength and natural aesthetics.

Thanks to its octagonal shape, this handle is suitable for both right-handed and left-handed users! Its ergonomic grip is ideal for optimum comfort, even during prolonged use in the kitchen.

Finally, wood putty is applied to the joint between blade and handle, guaranteeing a perfect seal. This prevents water from seeping in, ensuring the long life of your Japanese kitchen knife.

To care for your handcrafted Japanese knife, wash it only by hand with a soft, non-abrasive sponge, avoiding wetting the handle. After each cleaning, dry it immediately to prevent any traces of moisture. It is important not to put it in the dishwasher or let it soak in water.

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