Hitachi Blue #2 and soft iron cladding, by Taira Yasuaki under the moniker Minamoto Yasukuni, based in Kyushu, south west Japan. Having mastered both forging and grinding in multiple workshops, his knives today are a combination of all his experience and talent. Currently in his late 50s, he crafts his best work in small batches under his own label. A truly well rounded master bladesmith and fully licensed swordsmith.
These Gyuto have a a solid feel with a slight forward balance, and lasery cutting performance. Just over 4mm on the spine above the heel, gradual distal taper, and a thin convex geometry. These are serious performers made to do it all. All of the blade work from forged lamination, forging to shape, grinding and finishing are done by the man himself. Finished with a semi-mirrored kasumi. All blades are individually laminated.
Forge welded at the lowest possible temperature, Taira-san's Blue #2 steel is very easy to sharpen with a slight glassy feeling, and holds an aggressive toothy edge for a long time. Undoubtedly one of the most skilled bladesmiths in all Japan.
|
Steel |
Aogami #2 |
|
Cladding |
Soft iron |
|
Edge Length |
240mm |
|
Heel Height |
55mm |
|
Spine thickness at the Heel |
4.1mm |
|
Spine Thickness 10mm from the Tip |
0.9mm |
|
Weight |
238g |
|
Handle |
Octagonal Magnolia |
*As each knife is made individually by hand, there may be some slight variance in the measurements. If you are concerned about the exact dimensions of the knife you will receive please feel free to contact us.