Zakuri Aokami Steel Kuro Bunka 170mm - Made in Tosa, Japan

Experience Tosa Blacksmithing at Its Purest in a Kurouchi BunkaThe Zakuri Aokami Steel Kuro Bunka 170mm is hammer-forged in Tosa, Japan by blacksmith Michikuni Tokaji. A San Mai construction with an Aogami #1 carbon steel core and soft iron cladding, finished in raw kurouchi. One of the finest carbon steels available, in a versatile bunka profile built for precision and edge retention.The Specs Steel: Aogami #1 (Blue Steel #1) carbon steel Construction: San Mai, hammer forged Cladding: Soft iron Finish: Kurouchi (blacksmith's finish) Blade length: 170mm Blade height: 46mm Spine thickness at heel: 3.0mm Edge grind: Even (50/50) Blacksmith: Michikuni Tokaji Origin: Tosa, Japan The Zakuri DifferenceZakuri is a small workshop in Tosa - a region of Japan with a centuries-long tradition of blade-making distinct from the more famous centres of Seki and Sakai. Blacksmith Michikuni Tokaji hammer-forges each knife individually using San Mai construction, where a hard Aogami #1 core is clad between layers of soft iron. Aogami #1 (Blue Steel #1) is among the highest-grade carbon steels used in Japanese knife-making - a tungsten and chromium-enriched high-carbon alloy that takes an exceptionally fine edge and holds it through sustained hard use. The bunka profile combines the flat cutting stroke of a nakiri with a pointed reverse-tanto tip, making it equally capable at push-cutting vegetables and detail work. The kurouchi finish is left intact on the blade flats, giving the knife a rugged, honest character and offering slightly better rust resistance than a fully polished carbon blade.Care and Maintenance Hand wash only - never dishwasher Dry immediately after use - Aogami #1 will rust if left wet Apply a light coat of food-safe oil if storing for extended periods Expect a natural patina to develop with use - this is normal and protective Do not cut frozen food or bones - the edge will chip Sharpen with a whetstone to maintain the edge Store on a magnetic strip or in a knife block