Nigara Hamono Tsuchime AS 18cm Japanese santoku knife with walnut handle

Nigara Hamono is a Japanese forge with a history going back almost 350 years. Originally, it specialized in the manufacture of swords for the samurai of the Edo feudal era. This craftsmanship has survived the centuries, and it is now the 8ᵉ generation of the Yoshizawa family that continues this heritage, with the manufacture of Japanese kitchen knives.

Combining tradition and modernity, Nigara Hamono preserves ancestral forging techniques while collaborating with talented craftsmen. Based in Hirosaki, northern Japan, this forge offers handcrafted knives that perfectly blend traditional Japanese style with more contemporary designs!

A remarkable blade for your Japanese santoku knife

This santoku knife features a blade forged using the traditional Japanese San Mai method, which means "3 layers". This technique consists of integrating a hard steel core between two layers of softer steel. This process gives the blade both great strength and extra protection for its core.

The core of this blade is made from Japanese Aogami Super steel (also known as Blue Paper Steel), designed by the renowned steelmaker Hitachi. Its carbon content of around 1.5% gives it a high level of hardness, essential for guaranteeing an effective, long-lasting cutting edge. With a hardness of 65HRC on the Rockwell scale, this handcrafted Japanese knife offers remarkable cutting precision!

This blade features a flat cutting edge, which provides a very fine cutting edge, perfect for precise, clean cutting. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, this serration is appreciated for its sturdiness and ease of sharpening on a whetstone.

In the San Maï structure, the softer stainless steel outer layer enhances the blade's suppleness, without making it flexible. This reduces the risk of breakage during use. In addition, this superimposition of different steel layers creates a fine wavy line visible along the edge, adding a unique aesthetic touch.

Your Nigara knife is distinguished by its nashiji finish, giving it an elegant, authentic appearance. This finish is accompanied by hammering with original wave patterns. For an extra touch of authenticity, kanjis have been hand-engraved on the blade.

The Japanese knife with a handcrafted handle in natural wood

This Japanese kitchen knife features a handle made from walnut wood, a robust and durable material. Moisture-resistant, it reduces the risk of warping over time. Its dark color, enhanced by natural veining, adds a touch of elegance to your Aogami knife!

The handle is enhanced by a black buffalo horn bolster at the junction between the blade and the wood. As this natural material is unique, each Nigara Hamono knife features variations that make it even more distinctive.

The octagonal handle is suitable for both right- and left-handed users, guaranteeing an ergonomic grip. Ideal for long kitchen sessions, it offers optimum comfort during cutting!

Finally, to ensure a better seal between blade and handle, wood paste has been applied to the junction. This prevents the infiltration of water or food residues.

Caring for a carbon knife

To preserve your Japanese santoku knife, it should be washed only by hand with a sponge and mild detergent, avoiding excessive moisture on the handle. After washing, it is essential to dry it immediately before storing it in a dry place. Do not put in the dishwasher or soak in water.

Over time, the color of your blade may vary slightly, which is normal! This is a natural reaction of carbon to the acidity of the food you're cutting and the humidity in the air. This in no way affects the usability of your santoku knife!

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