A renowned smith from Sakai-city, Kikuchiyo (a pseudonym) apprenticed for over two decades before taking over the master’s forge upon his retirement a few years ago. One of the most impressive traits of his working style is that he is not only fast in production but he is also one of the few remaining smiths in Sakai that can forge Honyaki blades, a technique of forging that yields knives with beautiful Hamon lines and exquisite hardness.

Ren is a pseudonym for the grandson of one of Sakai’s greatest sharpeners. A sharpener highly respected for his quality sharpening consistency for both double and single bevel knives.

Being a third generation sharpener in his late teens who only began training a few years ago, blades done by Ren reflect his experience level in their price points. As a result, his knives are ideal for those looking for excellently forged carbon steel blades at an extremely reasonable price point. Hobbyist sharpeners looking for a knife to practice polishing and initiates of carbon steel knives will also enjoy owning a Kikuchiyo Ren blade. We carry both White #2 and Blue #2 steels in this line. 

Santoku is an all-purpose blade that is incredibly useful for tight spaces and it is the one that most home cooks should purchase first. Even folks who use paring knives for everything can quickly get used to this blade since it brings so much utility in a compact size.

Brand: Hitohira ひとひら
Blacksmith: Kikuchiyo 菊千代
Producing Area: Sakai-Osaka/ Japan
Profile: Santoku
Size: 180mm
Steel: Yasuki White (Shirogami) #2, Soft Iron Clad
Handle: Ho Wood & Buffalo Horn Ferrule Octagonal
Total Length: 312mm
Edge Length: 164mm
Handle to Tip Length: 176mm
Blade Height: 48mm
Thickness: 2.4mm
Handle Length: 130mm
Weight: 131g
Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous