The funayuki is a classification of knives that refers to a range of different design features. In the Sakai tradition, it is a small, thinner
deba knife, with a single bevel. In the Tosa region, it became common to give the knives a double bevel and use them as a
gyuto would be used. Our latest blacksmith find, Shindo san, works and resides in Tosa, so his rendition of the funayuki follows in the local tradition.
Two features common to funayukis are a fairly flat blade profile with a relatively little belly, and short, handy size. The Enjin SRK8 Funayuki 165mm certainly ticks those boxes!
The first knives in this new line are made with SRK8 steel which is an alloy that boasts some similarities to Hitachi Shirogami #2. In the case of SRK8, chrome and nickel are added for extra toughness and resilience. The steel is heat-treated to HRC 63+. It should therefore hold a good edge and be easy to sharpen.
These are really fine knives featuring a well-done kurouchi finish on the upper blade road that fades to a nice matte sand-blasted lower portion. The core SRK8 steel shows really well against this backdrop. A great-looking burnt oak wood handle with an urushi finish makes a perfect match for the blade.
Brand: Enjin
Blacksmith: Shindo San
Location: Kami City, Kochi Prefecture, Japan
Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
Edge Steel: SRK8 Carbon Steel
Cladding: Soft Iron
Finish: Kurouchi/Sand Blast/Polished
Edge Grind: Even
HRC: 63 +-
Handle: Oak Octagonal Burnt Finish
Weight: 4.7 oz (132 g)
Edge Length: 170 mm
Total Length: 314 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 5.0 mm
Blade Height at Heel: 47.8 mm