Kohetsu Shinano knives are made from Aogami (blue) 2 steel. This is one of the most resilient steels used for knife blades. It does display a slightly lower wear resistance when compared to Aogami 1 steel, but at the stated hardness of 62 HRC this is barely discernible. Blue #2 steel is quick to sharpen.
The core steel is hardened to 62 HRC. An outer layer of stainless steel is applied san-mai style to protect and strengthen the inner core. It also makes daily maintenance a lot easier than with iron clad blades. The blade face is given a lovely sand blasted matte finish which contrasts nicely with the polished cutting edge. It has a symmetrical 50/50 grind which is very nicely carried out.
The blade length is slightly over the advertised number, which, together with the average height, results in a comfortable sized knife for most applications and users. There is a flat spot toward the rear of the blade but it also features a nicely curved belly from just past the halfway point. This is not a lightweight. Rather it has a very solid, reassuring feel in the hand and on the board. This knife comes with a lovely walnut handle with black pakka wood ferrule.
All around, the Kohetsu Shinano Blue #2
Gyuto 240mm is a really well constructed and finished knife at a very competitive price.
Knife Brand: Kohetsu
Line: Shinano
Location: Sanjo, Japan
Consrtuction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
Edge Steel: Blue #2
HRC: 62
Cladding: Stainless, Sand Blasted Finish
Type: Gyuto
Edge Length: 245mm
Height: 51mm
Handle: Walnut Octagonal
Ferrule: Black Pakka Wood