The Blacksmith

Hatsukokoro brings in masters of smithing, sharpening, and handle making to ensure quality, and a high attention to detail on their knives, so you know that you will be getting an amazing work knife. Based out of the industrial city of Amagasaki , Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, Hatsukokoro offers a wide breadth of handcrafted blades, sourcing from a variety of knife making regions across Japan. Their offerings are diverse in price point and profile, making them a great option for both industry guys and home cooks.

At the price these Kurouchi finish knives are a must have workhorse for any kit, the blue #2 steel will take an amazing edge, while being slightly more durable and rust resistant than a White steel (but we still wouldn’t push our luck). The dark octagonal wood handle looks great with the rustic style of the blade, making it as much a show piece as a work knife.

The Knife

The Yanagiba is a single bevelled knife, traditionally used for slicing fish and proteins. The long blade allows for effortless one stroke cuts, where the considerable weight of the blade will do most of, if not all the work. It is important to note that yanagiba are very thin behind the edge, and should not be used for rough tasks. Single bevel knives are mainly made out of carbon steel, and can be sharpened extremely sharp, therefore are preferred by professional sushi chefs. This is a task specific knife, typically ranging between 180mm and 360mm in length. This knife is single beveled and is meant to be used by right handed users. 

Knife Care (Iron Clad)

• This Knife is made from 3 layers of material; A layer of iron on each side protecting a layer of carbon steel at the core, in a process referred to as Sanmai or forge welding. Iron and carbon steel are both susceptible to rust and must be kept dry and clean at all time’s to avoid oxidation and discolouration.
• Simply wipe the knife with a damp cloth immediately after use.
• Wash with regular dish soap and warm water using a none abrasive sponge or cloth.
• Never put your knife in the dishwasher! The extreme heat will ruin the wooden handle.

• Highly acidic ingredients (Onions, Tomatoes, Citrus) Will cause rust and oxidation to happen faster, thus the user must ensure the knife is wiped clean immediately after working with such an ingredient.
• Should any rust form it can be removed using a rust eraser or a mixture of Baking soda and water to simply scrub it clean.
• Avoid Bones, Frozen foods, nuts and hard candies or anything other than fruits, vegetables and proteins.