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 mainly well known for his blue steel knives that he creates 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 unique clad-line between the hagane and jigane compared to other makers. He also usually has more core steel exposed than you would typically see on other blades.
The versions we are stocking are made from Blue #1 steel that has a soft iron jigane featuring a lovely 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 adding a very well-finished octagonal handle made from rosewood and colored pakka wood.
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
Edge Steel: Blue #1
Cladding: Soft Iron Clad
Hardness: 62-64 HRC
Handle: Rosewood Octagonal
Ferrule: Colored Pakka Wood
Weight: 7.8 oz (222 g)
Blade Length: 180 mm
Total Length: 330 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 2.5 mm
Blade Height: 58 mm
We do not have a saya that fits this knife well; try the felt guard instead.
The versions we are stocking are made from Blue #1 steel that has a soft iron jigane featuring a lovely 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 adding a very well-finished octagonal handle made from rosewood and colored pakka wood.
We are so pleased to be able to offer you these wonderful creations made by a true Master Blacksmith.
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Heavy Metal, January 11, 2025Posted By: Scott
A gourgeous knife, thick at the spine with a perfect symmetrical taper down to the edge, a large nakiri, and the heaviest knife I own. So many Japanese knives are super light weight, but this is a very heavy blade. It doesn't seem overly thick. It will make short work of any veggies. I love a heavy blade, and this is an absolute beauty. I will be hoping to pick up another of these knives if they make a repeat appearance on the website.
A gourgeous knife, thick at the spine with a perfect symmetrical taper down to the edge, a large nakiri, and the heaviest knife I own. So many Japanese knives are super light weight, but this is a very heavy blade. It doesn't seem overly thick. It will make short work of any veggies. I love a heavy blade, and this is an absolute beauty. I will be hoping to pick up another of these knives if they make a repeat appearance on the website.
