Hatsukokoro’s Kumokage line translates to “cloud shadow.” Forged in Tosa, these knives are characterized by consistent and thin grinds, affordable prices, and profiles that work well for both rock chopping and push cutting. The Kumokage Blue #2’s are not stainless and need to be kept dry to avoid corrosion over time. On the upside, they are very easy to sharpen and take a very keen edge. Hatsukokoro knives are known for a beautiful grind and polish, as well as generous heel height to prevent knuckles from contacting the board when cutting. 

Knives from the Kumokage line are constructed from Blue #2 carbon steel and clad in soft iron, giving them excellent edge retention and performance while remaining fairly easy to sharpen. The thickness in the spine gives these a sturdy, weighted feel in the hand while the convex grind minimizes food stiction. These are excellent choices for first time carbon steel knife users thanks to their affordable price and durability. 

A paring knife is often used for many in-hand tasks such as coring, peeling, and trimming; think apples, artichokes, various fruits and garlic etc. It is an extremely versatile tool that when you get a really good one, you start to wonder how you managed to cook all these years without it.

Brand: Hatsukokoro
Producing Area: Tosa-Kochi/ Japan
Profile: Paring
Size: 90mm
Steel Type: Carbon Steel
Steel: Blue (Aogami) #2, Soft Iron Clad
Handle: Teak & Buffalo Horn Ferrule Octagonal
Total Length: 212mm
Edge Length: 81mm
Handle to Tip Length: 97mm
Blade Height: 30mm
Thickness: 1.5mm
Handle Length: 113mm
Weight: 55g
Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous