Hatsukokoro is one of the most versatile knife brands operating out of Tosa, Japan, today, collaborating with a wide network of skilled blacksmiths to produce knives that span every price point and style. The Kokugei line represents their most traditional approach: san mai construction, hammer-forged Blue #1 carbon steel core, soft iron cladding, and an octagonal ebony handle. Honest, no-frills Japanese carbon steel built for performance.
The petty knife is Japan's precision utility knife - equally at home on the cutting board and in hand. At 120mm, this is the compact end of the petty range, making it a natural partner to a gyuto or santoku for detail work like trimming, peeling, and breaking down herbs. Blue #1 carbon steel is one of the finest knife steels made, combining excellent edge retention with a hardness of 62-63 HRC. The kurouchi finish gives the blade a rugged, workmanlike character that develops a natural patina with use.
Care Instructions: Blue #1 is a reactive carbon steel that will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after each use - do not leave moisture or acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only; never use the dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil before storage. A well-maintained Blue #1 edge rewards good sharpening technique and stropping with exceptional sharpness and retention.
Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.Brand: Hatsukokoro
Line: Kokugei
Location: Tosa, Japan
Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
Edge Steel: Blue #1 Carbon Steel
Cladding: Iron
Finish: Kurouchi (Black Forge Finish)
HRC: 62-63
Edge Grind: Even
Handle: Octagonal Ebony
Weight: 3.3 oz (92 g)
Blade Length: 126 mm
Total Length: 258 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 3.5 mm
Blade Height: 39 mm
The petty knife is Japan's precision utility knife - equally at home on the cutting board and in hand. At 120mm, this is the compact end of the petty range, making it a natural partner to a gyuto or santoku for detail work like trimming, peeling, and breaking down herbs. Blue #1 carbon steel is one of the finest knife steels made, combining excellent edge retention with a hardness of 62-63 HRC. The kurouchi finish gives the blade a rugged, workmanlike character that develops a natural patina with use.
Care Instructions: Blue #1 is a reactive carbon steel that will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after each use - do not leave moisture or acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only; never use the dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil before storage. A well-maintained Blue #1 edge rewards good sharpening technique and stropping with exceptional sharpness and retention.
Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
