Takeshi Saji R2 Damascus 24cm handmade Japanese sujihiki knife

The 24cm sujihiki knife is the equivalent of a carving knife. It can be used to cut fine slices of meat (roasts, leg of lamb, etc.), as well as large fish. Its long, narrow blade enables you to work efficiently and with precision.

Its cutting surface is damascened, i.e. constructed using several layers of interlocking steel. In the center, there is always a more rigid core, followed by several layers of softer steel, which will soften it and make it more resistant to breakage during use (not in the flexible sense).

Here, the sujihiki knife has a core of Japanese R2 steel (also known as SG2): a stainless alloy derived from powder metallurgy. It is quite rare, but highly appreciated by smiths and users alike. With its 63 HRC on the Rockwell scale, it holds its sharpness over time, so you don't have to keep sharpening!

What's more, despite its hardness, R2 steel is easy to maintain should the need arise. This is a plus for such a rigid alloy. In fact, you can maintain it with a Sharpening stone to keep its sharp edge!

At microscopic level, its purity can be noted, meaning that its structure is very homogeneous, which makes it more resistant (for example, there's less risk of chipping when you use it).

The R2 is then surrounded by several layers of nickel and stainless steel, which contrast with its extreme rigidity. You can see them intertwining on the cutting surface. Finally, the blade benefits from a Diamond Finish, which creates a beautiful polished/blurred effect. What's more, polishing a blade makes it more resistant to corrosion, as its surface is smootherand less porous.

A sandalwood handle extends this top-of-the-range blade. This dark wood lends elegance and contrast to the knife. What's more, this wood is resistant to bacteria, and depending on the maturity of the tree, is considered precious. The veins observed are unique on every handle encountered. A dark Pakkawood bolster completes the set. This composite material is resistant to humidity and temperature variations. Octagonal in shape, it is suitable for both right- and left-handed cooks.

It also features wood pulp that fills the space between the blade and the handle. This makes it watertight and prevents small scraps from getting inside.

Finally, the knife comes in an elegant wooden case. A real asset if you're planning to give it as a gift!

Care and maintenance :

The knife is not dishwasher-safe. It must be washed by hand under lukewarm water, using a sponge and a mild detergent. After washing, wipe with a soft cloth to remove all traces of moisture, then store.

A few words about the blacksmith:

Takeshi Saji R2 Damascus japanese knives are handmade by Takeshi Saji san blacksmith.

This expert enjoys an excellent reputation in Japan. His knives are highly appreciated for their finesse and elegance. He brilliantly combines the forging techniques of yesteryear with original visuals, appealing to all cooks. In fact, he has been certified as a "traditional master craftsman" since the 90s.

His workshop is located in the renowned Takefu Knife Village , one of Japan's leading centres for the manufacture of knives and cutting utensils. Here, the best blacksmiths work in the traditional way, so as not to lose their ancestral know-how. They continue to train the new generation in this way, and being together in the same place enables them to share their tricks of the trade.

Please note that quantities are limited, due to the provenance of the knives and the capacity of the blacksmith, who carries out all operations by hand.

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