Yoshikazu Tanaka is one of the most famous knifemakers in Japan. Tanaka-san works in Sakai City forging knives for some of the top brands and chefs. He is particularly well known for his blue steel knives that he makes for one of the country’s top makers. He is universally lauded for his heat treatment and his forging skills. One aspect of his knives that is loved by all is a very unique clad-line between the hagane and jigane compared to other makers. He also usually has more core steel exposed than you would normally see on other blades.
The versions we are stocking are made from Blue #1 steel that have a soft iron jigane featuring a very nice kurouchi finish. The dark upper blade contrasts perfectly with the sand blasted lower face along the shinogi. Some lovely kanji elements add to the refined look of the knife. That look is further enhanced by the addition of a very well-finished octagonal handle made from rosewood and colored pakka wood.
This is a stout blade with a fair amount of heft to it. Like all Sakai knives, it also runs a bit shorter than advertised.
We are so pleased to be able to offer you these wonderful creations made by a true Master Blacksmith.Blacksmith: Tanaka
Sharpener: Tsuyoshi Yauchi
Location: Sakai, Japan
Profile: Gyuto
Edge Length: 210mm
Edge Steel: Blue #1
Cladding: Soft Iron Clad
Handle: Rosewood Octagonal
Ferrule: Colored Pakkawood
Total Length: 354mm
Edge Length: 201mm
Blade Height: 47mm
Thickness: 2.7mm
Weight: 5.9oz/170g
Hardness: 62-64HRC
The versions we are stocking are made from Blue #1 steel that have a soft iron jigane featuring a very nice kurouchi finish. The dark upper blade contrasts perfectly with the sand blasted lower face along the shinogi. Some lovely kanji elements add to the refined look of the knife. That look is further enhanced by the addition of a very well-finished octagonal handle made from rosewood and colored pakka wood.
This is a stout blade with a fair amount of heft to it. Like all Sakai knives, it also runs a bit shorter than advertised.
We are so pleased to be able to offer you these wonderful creations made by a true Master Blacksmith.
Reviews
2 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval)
Holy Crap, December 18, 2024
Posted By: Eric Barnello
I don't even know where to begin on this. Gorgeous design with all the equal parts perfection and imperfection you come to appreciate with this level artisanship. Out of the box, it feels right in the hand (and I have some giant bear paws), and of all of the knives I've purchased over my life, this one actually feels like an extension of my arm. I use it for everything, even nonsense I could relegate to a simpler, smaller knife. I'm really struggling to not purchase the 120 and 150mm as well because I adore this line. Definitely regret missing the 240 though!
I don't even know where to begin on this. Gorgeous design with all the equal parts perfection and imperfection you come to appreciate with this level artisanship. Out of the box, it feels right in the hand (and I have some giant bear paws), and of all of the knives I've purchased over my life, this one actually feels like an extension of my arm. I use it for everything, even nonsense I could relegate to a simpler, smaller knife. I'm really struggling to not purchase the 120 and 150mm as well because I adore this line. Definitely regret missing the 240 though!
Incredible Quality
Posted By: Bob Carpenter
I just received this knife from CKTG,I added the finish sharpening..This is the sixth or seventh knife I've bought from them and the first time adding the finish sharpening..The service is great,they answer my questions and give advice quickly..As for the knife,it's the highest quality I have in every respect,and the sharpening was superb,A really great knife.
I just received this knife from CKTG,I added the finish sharpening..This is the sixth or seventh knife I've bought from them and the first time adding the finish sharpening..The service is great,they answer my questions and give advice quickly..As for the knife,it's the highest quality I have in every respect,and the sharpening was superb,A really great knife.