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 petty (utility) knife probably gets used most often after your all-purpose knives. It can be used to cut small fruits, vegetables, and even some smaller cuts of meats (and many many more things, like cutting through plastic wrapping from a grocery trip!) If you have one, for a quick meal for two, you may just get it done without a chef's knife.

Brand: Hatsukokoro
Producing Area: Tosa-Kochi/ Japan
Profile: Petty
Size: 150mm
Steel Type: Carbon Steel
Steel: Blue (Aogami) #2, Soft Iron Clad
Handle: Teak & Buffalo Horn Ferrule Octagonal
Total Length: 284mm
Edge Length: 151mm
Handle to Tip Length: 163mm
Blade Height: 35.5mm
Thickness: 3.4mm
Handle Length: 120mm
Weight: 97g
Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous