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.

This blade is ideal for both initiates and seasoned single bevel knife users who want to experience the performance of carbon steel without the full burden of rust management. Initiates of single bevel knives will enjoy the more forgiving nature of the stainless construction of Silver #3 steel compared to a blade with a reactive iron cladding. Seasoned single bevel knife owners will also find it to be a worthy addition to their arsenal, particularly if they work in a busy kitchen with high volumes of fish to process where breaks to clean your knife are limited.

A Yanagiba is a traditional Japanese fish slicing blade that is single-sided (beveled), often simply referred to as a “sushi knife.” These slicers may not be as versatile as its double-sided cousin, Sujihiki, but when it comes to pure slicing tasks of boneless protein (and not just fish), a well-sharpened Yanagiba is unmatched in performance. It is a great addition for any cooks working with sashimi and other delicate, raw seafoods.

Brand: Hitohira 
Smith: Kikuchiyo
Producing Area: Sakai-Osaka/ Japan
Profile: Yanagiba
Size: 300mm
Steel Type: Stainless Steel
Steel: Yasuki Silver #3 (Ginsan), Soft Stainless Clad
Handle: Ho Wood & Buffalo Horn Ferrule Octagonal
Come with Saya
Total Length: 454mm
Edge Length: 290mm
Handle to Tip Length: 308mm
Blade Height: 36mm
Thickness: 3.8mm
Handle Length: 146mm
Weight: 211g
Hand Orientation: Right-Handed
Hardness: 61±1HRC
Sharpener: Mosuke