The Matsubara White #1 Cleaver is a fine example of a traditional Chinese vegetable knife. It is hand-forged by 4th-generation master bladesmith Katsuto Tanaka, who was born in Matsubara in 1962. He is the fourth president of Tanaka Kama Kogyo, Blacksmith.
Tanaka-san hammer forges his blades from Hitachi White Paper #1, a pure carbon alloy renowned for its hardness and ability to take and hold a sharp edge. This knife is hardened to 63-64 HRC, which is at the upper end of hardness for this steel. The core (hagane) is then covered in a layer of softer carbon steel to add strength and protection. This layer is finished in a kurouchi style of blacksmith carbon, which further protects the blade and aids in food release. It also endows the knife with a very nice rustic appearance. A lovely hand-engraved motif further adds to the fine aesthetic of the knife.
The Matsubara White #1 Cleaver measures 215mm in blade length and has a thicker-than-average spine measuring just over 3.4mm at the base. It also boasts a taller than average blade height of 86mm, making it a great choice for people with larger hands and those seeking more finger-to-board clearance. The double-sided grind features a very well-finished symmetrical edge bevel. This is a wonderful example of a classic cleaver, and a knife that should occupy a spot on the shopping list of anyone seeking a medium-sized and modestly priced kitchen knife capable of handling most cutting tasks.Brand: Matsubara
Blacksmith: Tanaka San
Location: Nagasaki, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Cladding: Soft Iron
Weight: 11.1 oz (314 g)
Edge Length: 215 mm
Total Length: 366 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 3.4 mm
Blade Height at Heel: 86 mm
Handle Type: Walnut Octagonal
Please note that Mr. Tanaka often puts a notch in the tang; this
is done on purpose and is not an installation mistake.
Tanaka-san hammer forges his blades from Hitachi White Paper #1, a pure carbon alloy renowned for its hardness and ability to take and hold a sharp edge. This knife is hardened to 63-64 HRC, which is at the upper end of hardness for this steel. The core (hagane) is then covered in a layer of softer carbon steel to add strength and protection. This layer is finished in a kurouchi style of blacksmith carbon, which further protects the blade and aids in food release. It also endows the knife with a very nice rustic appearance. A lovely hand-engraved motif further adds to the fine aesthetic of the knife.
The Matsubara White #1 Cleaver measures 215mm in blade length and has a thicker-than-average spine measuring just over 3.4mm at the base. It also boasts a taller than average blade height of 86mm, making it a great choice for people with larger hands and those seeking more finger-to-board clearance. The double-sided grind features a very well-finished symmetrical edge bevel. This is a wonderful example of a classic cleaver, and a knife that should occupy a spot on the shopping list of anyone seeking a medium-sized and modestly priced kitchen knife capable of handling most cutting tasks.
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Matsubara 210mm White #1 CleaverPosted By: Thomas J.
3 people found this review helpful
This is a really nice hand forged Chukabocho with good blade length, fine balance and takes a wicked edge!
No issues with fit or finish or over grinds and cuts at or slightly above above its price point.
Well suited for advanced home Foodies wanting a big step up from mass produced mono-steel cleavers.
CKTG provides excellent customer service and this item would make a fine birthday or Christmas gift.
3 people found this review helpful
This is a really nice hand forged Chukabocho with good blade length, fine balance and takes a wicked edge!
No issues with fit or finish or over grinds and cuts at or slightly above above its price point.
Well suited for advanced home Foodies wanting a big step up from mass produced mono-steel cleavers.
CKTG provides excellent customer service and this item would make a fine birthday or Christmas gift.
