Kurosaki makes some excellent knives, and his work on the Shimo series for Masakage is no exception. The reactive iron Damascus cladding is some of the most beautiful we have seen, hammered to resemble frost patterns that appear on windows during the winter. The core steel of White #2 is handled impeccably by the smith. A very refined edge is possible on this knife though, like most all Masakages, the edge the knife comes with is pretty darn sharp. The symmetrical convex grind and blade geometry on all of Kurosaki’s knives are really the stars of the show. Ultra-thin behind the edge, the final grind blends seamlessly with a generous convex section in the middle. While not lasers, these knives slide through soft and hard produce with equal ease making them tremendous performers in a broad range of applications.
The 165mm Shimo Bunka is essentially a santoku with a sword tip. Many prefer this profile to the santoku for the bunka’s ability to handle more detailed tip work and the reduced drag toward the end of the blade. The edge profile is nice and flat with a bit of belly for rocking towards the tip.Brand: Masakage
Line: Shimo
Blacksmith: Yu Kurosaki
Construction: Hammer Forged
Core Edge Steel: White #2
HRC: 62
Cladding: Carbon Steel Damascus/Sand Blasted
Engraving: Hand Engraved
Weight: 4.2 oz (120 g)
Edge Length: 175 mm
Total Length: 319 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 2.9 mm
Blade Height: 46.8 mm
The 165mm Shimo Bunka is essentially a santoku with a sword tip. Many prefer this profile to the santoku for the bunka’s ability to handle more detailed tip work and the reduced drag toward the end of the blade. The edge profile is nice and flat with a bit of belly for rocking towards the tip.
Reviews
5 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Very NicePosted By: Chad Graham
2 people found this review helpful
This was given to me as an early Father's Day gift from my wife. Compared to a European style chef's knife that I normally use, this is lighter, much sharper and very beautiful to look at. I do not usually write reviews but this is such a nice and well made knife that I would suggest it to anybody that likes great kitchen knives. The entire blade is reactive and starting to show a blue patina very quickly, but this is just adding to the beauty and certainly not a detriment. Just wipe frequently and keep it dry. If you strop before use this is as sharp as a shaving razor out of the box. Amazing knife and couldn't be happier.
2 people found this review helpful
This was given to me as an early Father's Day gift from my wife. Compared to a European style chef's knife that I normally use, this is lighter, much sharper and very beautiful to look at. I do not usually write reviews but this is such a nice and well made knife that I would suggest it to anybody that likes great kitchen knives. The entire blade is reactive and starting to show a blue patina very quickly, but this is just adding to the beauty and certainly not a detriment. Just wipe frequently and keep it dry. If you strop before use this is as sharp as a shaving razor out of the box. Amazing knife and couldn't be happier.
Masakage detailPosted By: David
3 people found this review helpful
I was admiring the line of the spine on this knife when using it the other day and though I should write a review. I have used this Bunka for more that two years. I like the balance, lightness, thinness behind edge, ability to hold an sharp edge, the convex grind, the ability to draw cut and do some chopping. It is especially handy in tight work spaces.
The Damascus is a unique pattern. Do note it is reactive. I would not let others use it. You can clean with multiple items from vinegar to Barkeepers Helper.
The price is very reasonable, the design is good, the knife is enjoyable to hold. Add it to your collection.
3 people found this review helpful
I was admiring the line of the spine on this knife when using it the other day and though I should write a review. I have used this Bunka for more that two years. I like the balance, lightness, thinness behind edge, ability to hold an sharp edge, the convex grind, the ability to draw cut and do some chopping. It is especially handy in tight work spaces.
The Damascus is a unique pattern. Do note it is reactive. I would not let others use it. You can clean with multiple items from vinegar to Barkeepers Helper.
The price is very reasonable, the design is good, the knife is enjoyable to hold. Add it to your collection.
An amazing all around knife for any taskPosted By: James - verified customer
4 people found this review helpful
I have owned this knife for about a year now. It is a beautiful looking blade. Good for push and rock cutting. I have large hands so when i pinch grip far as halfway up the blade and then use the knife like a paring knife. No problems cutting hard root veg or winter squah. The tip is also a great feature. Used it to cut out pineapple eyes, core tomatos, cutting wrappers lol, and occasionally have to cut bad spots out of veggies. I have fileted flatfish with it, butchered chickens, cleaned and cut tenderloins, used the heel of blade to butterfly shrimp. Ive used this knife in so many different settings. line cooking, hot cold,breakfast, prep work, school kitchens, banquet kitchens also. shes great in tight, small kitchens where i worry about chipping the tip of my 210mm gyuto. I really feel like it is two knives in one package. Comes out the box pretty sharp, she is a joy to use the sharper she is and she attracts other chefs all the time. Will develop a amazing patina and will really look like frost with the blue hue to it. only complaint is the whole blade is reactive and is very reactive. Wipe clean before you put it down and thinly coat with any oil if you are going to store it away
4 people found this review helpful
I have owned this knife for about a year now. It is a beautiful looking blade. Good for push and rock cutting. I have large hands so when i pinch grip far as halfway up the blade and then use the knife like a paring knife. No problems cutting hard root veg or winter squah. The tip is also a great feature. Used it to cut out pineapple eyes, core tomatos, cutting wrappers lol, and occasionally have to cut bad spots out of veggies. I have fileted flatfish with it, butchered chickens, cleaned and cut tenderloins, used the heel of blade to butterfly shrimp. Ive used this knife in so many different settings. line cooking, hot cold,breakfast, prep work, school kitchens, banquet kitchens also. shes great in tight, small kitchens where i worry about chipping the tip of my 210mm gyuto. I really feel like it is two knives in one package. Comes out the box pretty sharp, she is a joy to use the sharper she is and she attracts other chefs all the time. Will develop a amazing patina and will really look like frost with the blue hue to it. only complaint is the whole blade is reactive and is very reactive. Wipe clean before you put it down and thinly coat with any oil if you are going to store it away
Like my other masakage, I love itPosted By: Ben S - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
I bought this because while I love my gyuto, its a bit too big to use on the line. Out of the box it's sharp enough to shave hair. It's light, and the tip comes to a fine point. I love the look of the Damascus. It isn't totally smooth, which I like because it gives you better grip. It is very reactive, which might be a problem for some, but it doesn't bother me. If you're looking for a great, small knife at an affordable price, I recommend this.
2 people found this review helpful
I bought this because while I love my gyuto, its a bit too big to use on the line. Out of the box it's sharp enough to shave hair. It's light, and the tip comes to a fine point. I love the look of the Damascus. It isn't totally smooth, which I like because it gives you better grip. It is very reactive, which might be a problem for some, but it doesn't bother me. If you're looking for a great, small knife at an affordable price, I recommend this.
Product ReviewPosted By: aaron - verified customer
2 people found this review helpful
Beautiful knife. Sharp as a razor out of the box. I did leave my roll in the trunk of my car on a stormy night and didn't realize I had a leak so it got some rust. Very reactive. I just did a vinegar soak and baking soda paste wipe and it came out with a beautiful patina and is back to full form. Great knife. Favorite in my collection.
2 people found this review helpful
Beautiful knife. Sharp as a razor out of the box. I did leave my roll in the trunk of my car on a stormy night and didn't realize I had a leak so it got some rust. Very reactive. I just did a vinegar soak and baking soda paste wipe and it came out with a beautiful patina and is back to full form. Great knife. Favorite in my collection.
