Tsunehisa Hamono is a maker located in Tosa, rather like Tojiro, with about 30 people doing some very nice work on a variety of different knife lines. We have included several different steel types in this lineup of mid-priced kitchen knives.
This fine
gyuto is made with G3 stainless steel as its core. Manufactured by Hitachi Metals, Ltd., G3 contains 1.05% carbon, 13% chromium, and 0.8% manganese. It is usually hardened to between 59-62 HRC. One main benefit of this particular steel is its similarity to carbon alloys. Being made with very pure, fine particle components elevates the steel to the top performance rung among other stainless steels. Ginsan-ko contains high carbon but is rust and stain-resistant. Being clad with softer stainless steel makes it easy to maintain while the core of G3 guarantees great cutting performance.
This is a nicely proportioned knife with a reasonable height and well-conceived profile. The walnut oval handle with maple ferrule is finished to a high standard and complements the beautiful hand-chiseled kanji characters on the blade face. This is a wonderful kiritsuke for the pro or home chefs who are seeking a great all-around cutter with easy-to-maintain attributes and top-shelf performance.
Weight: 5.3 oz/ 150g
Blade Length: 212mm
Overall Length: 347mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 2.9mm
Blade Height at Heel: 44.7mm