Harukaze translates to windy spring, a name we like for the image it brings to mind, and this bunka represents the carbon steel side of the lineup the company builds exclusively for us in Tosa, Japan.
The core here is White #2, or Shirogami #2, wrapped in a layer of soft iron that adds both lightness and strength, finished in a kurouchi, or black, coating that protects the blade and gives it a rustic, handmade look. This bunka runs surprisingly light in hand for how stout the blade looks, and the shape covers a wide range of kitchen tasks, from quick in-hand trimming to longer prep sessions. It comes with an oval rosewood handle and black pakka wood ferrule, comfortable for right and left handed cooks alike.
What Customers Are Saying: The most common reaction to this knife is surprise at how light it feels for its size, with more than one owner saying that took some getting used to before becoming one of their favorite qualities. Cooks consistently call it one of their go-to knives well over a year into ownership, and slicing tomatoes is a recurring point of praise for how effortlessly the edge gets through them. One reviewer did note a slight twist in their particular blade, with the edge and spine not perfectly aligned, though they said it was minor enough not to affect daily use. Most owners describe it as a serious bargain for the steel and fit and finish you get.
Care Instructions: White #2 is a reactive carbon steel, so wipe and dry the blade immediately after use rather than letting it sit. Avoid leaving acidic foods against the blade for any length of time, and apply a light coat of camellia oil for longer term storage. Hand wash only.
The core here is White #2, or Shirogami #2, wrapped in a layer of soft iron that adds both lightness and strength, finished in a kurouchi, or black, coating that protects the blade and gives it a rustic, handmade look. This bunka runs surprisingly light in hand for how stout the blade looks, and the shape covers a wide range of kitchen tasks, from quick in-hand trimming to longer prep sessions. It comes with an oval rosewood handle and black pakka wood ferrule, comfortable for right and left handed cooks alike.
What Customers Are Saying: The most common reaction to this knife is surprise at how light it feels for its size, with more than one owner saying that took some getting used to before becoming one of their favorite qualities. Cooks consistently call it one of their go-to knives well over a year into ownership, and slicing tomatoes is a recurring point of praise for how effortlessly the edge gets through them. One reviewer did note a slight twist in their particular blade, with the edge and spine not perfectly aligned, though they said it was minor enough not to affect daily use. Most owners describe it as a serious bargain for the steel and fit and finish you get.
Care Instructions: White #2 is a reactive carbon steel, so wipe and dry the blade immediately after use rather than letting it sit. Avoid leaving acidic foods against the blade for any length of time, and apply a light coat of camellia oil for longer term storage. Hand wash only.
- Brand: Harukaze
- Location: Tosa, Japan
- Blacksmith: Undisclosed
- Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
- Edge Steel: White #2 (Shirogami #2)
- Cladding: Soft Iron
- HRC: 60-61
- Finish: Kurouchi
- Edge Grind: Double Ground, Even (See Choil Photo)
- Handle: Rosewood Oval
- Ferrule: Black Pakka Wood
- Weight: 4.9 oz (140 g)
- Blade Length: 171 mm
- Total Length: 310 mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 4 mm
- Blade Height: 45 mm
Reviews
8 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval)
Finally easy to cut tomatoesPosted By: Get to da choppa - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Been big into cooking for years, but this has been one of my first investments into good knives. Sharp enough slicing tomatoes is effortless and makes that nice "clunk" you so desire. Some reviews mentioned how light the knife was, but from my side that has been nice as it feels more like a hand extension.
6 people found this review helpful
Been big into cooking for years, but this has been one of my first investments into good knives. Sharp enough slicing tomatoes is effortless and makes that nice "clunk" you so desire. Some reviews mentioned how light the knife was, but from my side that has been nice as it feels more like a hand extension.
One of my favorite knivesPosted By: A. D. Fitzgerald
8 people found this review helpful
I've enjoyed this knife for over a year; it is one of my top three go-to chef's knives. When I opened the box, I was somewhat dismayed by the length of the blade + hilt, but my dismay quickly turned to surprised happiness when I picked the knife up and realized that it is LIGHT! I very much admire this knife's esthetics, but make no mistake, it is a joy to use in the kitchen. A true bargain for the price.
8 people found this review helpful
I've enjoyed this knife for over a year; it is one of my top three go-to chef's knives. When I opened the box, I was somewhat dismayed by the length of the blade + hilt, but my dismay quickly turned to surprised happiness when I picked the knife up and realized that it is LIGHT! I very much admire this knife's esthetics, but make no mistake, it is a joy to use in the kitchen. A true bargain for the price.
I might have missed somethingPosted By: John Morningstar - verified customer
6 people found this review helpful
Decent amount piece of steel for the price. The handle is well executed. The blade takes and holds a nice edge. The knife I received is not perfectly straight. There is a slight twist. As a result the edge and spine don't exactly line up. It isn't bad enough to negatively affect daily tasks, but it's noticeable if you look closely.
6 people found this review helpful
Decent amount piece of steel for the price. The handle is well executed. The blade takes and holds a nice edge. The knife I received is not perfectly straight. There is a slight twist. As a result the edge and spine don't exactly line up. It isn't bad enough to negatively affect daily tasks, but it's noticeable if you look closely.
Great starting knife! Great knife Great Value 
Best Value
