Yoshikane SKD Nashiji Kiritsuke 210mm - Ebony

Yoshikane by Hatsukokoro in Seki City, Japan.

Yoshikane Hamono was founded in 1919 in Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture. Today this highly regarded hamono is run by 4th generation master Kazutoshi Yamamoto. Yoshikane is considered one of the most established and top quality knife manufacturers in the region. 

A quote from Yamamoto-san sums up the hamono's beliefs perfectly: 'While many things change rapidly nowadays, there are ideas and beliefs that never change. Everyday I make sure the meaning of these words are forged into knife making.'

These knives are made with a semi-stainless SKD steel. SKD is traditionally a tool steel, though it has become very popular among blacksmiths because of its Carbon and Chromium content (1% and 4.5%, respectively). SKD makes for a knife with long lasting edge retention and will take longer to build up a patina. 

This kiritsuke in particular is incredibly well balanced and now features a beautiful Ebony handle. 

These knives will rust if left wet or dirty. Make sure to wipe down your knife to protect from oxidization.