Yoshimi Kato, who has recently taken the reins of his step-father’s esteemed business, continues the family tradition of crafting high-quality knives for various brands as well as a unique line exclusively for us. Kato-San hones his craft at the renowned Takefu Knife Village in Echizen, Japan, where he produces knives under notable names like Kanehiro and Masakage. Among the materials he works with, VG-10 stainless steel stands out as one of his favorites, widely admired in the world of Japanese knife making.
VG-10 steel is prized for its exceptional edge retention and outstanding resistance to wear and corrosion. The core of the blade is encased in a soft stainless steel cladding, making the knife easy to maintain. Its aesthetic appeal is equally impressive, featuring a beautifully etched Damascus pattern on the lower blade, which transitions into a nashiji (pear skin) finish on the upper surface.
Paired with a traditional octagonal walnut handle and a black buffalo horn ferrule, this knife is not only a high-performing tool but also a work of art. Its perfect balance of form and function ensures a superior cutting experience every time.
Brand: Kato Nashiji Suminagashi
Blacksmith: Yoshimi Kato
Location: Echizen, Japan
Construction: San Mai
Method: Hammer Forged
Core Edge Steel: VG-10
Cladding: Nashiji/Damascus Stainless
HRC: 61
Engraving: Laser Engraved
Edge Grind: Even (See Choil Shot)
Handle: Walnut Octagonal
Ferrule: Black Buffalo Horn
Weight: 5.9 oz (168 g)
Edge Length: 269 mm
Total Length: 415 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 3.5 mm
Blade Height: 40.7 mm