Hitachi Blue #2 core steel and soft iron cladding forged by Yoshikazu Tanaka of Sakai City. Undoubtedly one of the most revered blacksmiths, Tanaka-san's mastery of heat treating steel is loved by many users around the globe. The very thin grind and elegant finish has been done by the legendary Kawakita Hamono.
This mini cleaver was inspired by the cutting performance of our previously released White #2 cleaver, which was also crafted by the same duo. The idea behind this was to have a similar cutting experience but in a size that is a lot more nimble. This mini cleaver has an edge profile with a very subtle curve, similar to a full sized #6 Chuka. Unlike a typical Nakiri which will generally have a flat edge profile that relies on the tip being rounded - this mini cleaver's subtle curve allows for great comfort on the board while having the tip at a right angle.
A blade designed for high volumes of vegetable preparation, the edge is far too thin for it to be used as a butcher's cleaver. Tanaka-san's Blue #2 core has excellent edge retention and sharpness.
Steel |
Aogami #2 |
Cladding |
Iron |
Edge Length |
183mm |
Height at the Heel |
79mm |
Height at the Middle | 80mm |
Height at the Tip |
78mm |
Spine thickness at the Heel |
2mm |
Weight |
235g |
Handle |
Octagonal Wenge |