The Kawasaki Kajiya White #1 Petty 140mm is a beautifully handcrafted knife from a small, family-run forge with over 100 years of history. Located in Shiroishi-cho in Saga Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, Kawasaki Kajiya is now in its third generation, led by Kawasaki-san alongside his nephew Mizokami-san. Their work reflects traditional Japanese blacksmithing with a strong emphasis on performance and simplicity. The core steel is Hitachi White #1 carbon steel, known for its fine grain structure, ease of sharpening, and ability to take an extremely sharp edge.
This knife features a kurouchi (blacksmith) finish with iron cladding, giving it a rustic, handmade appearance. The petty profile is ideal for smaller tasks like trimming, peeling, and precision work on the board or in hand. The grind is even for easy use by both right- and left-handed users. With its light weight and nimble feel, this knife offers excellent control and responsiveness. As with all carbon steel knives, it will develop a patina over time and should be kept clean and dry between uses.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers appreciate the razor-sharp edge, ease of sharpening, and traditional feel of this knife. Many note its excellent control for detailed work and the character that comes with a hand-forged blade.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel core and iron cladding. Hand wash only and dry immediately after use. Do not cut frozen foods or bones. Allow a natural patina to develop, but remove any orange rust with a gentle abrasive like baking soda or Bar Keeper’s Friend.
Blacksmith: Kawasaki San Location: Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Japan Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged Edge Steel: Hitachi White #1 Carbon Steel Cladding: Iron Finish: Kurouchi Edge Grind: Even Weight: 2.4 oz (68 g) Blade Length: 142 mm Total Length: 266 mm Spine Thickness at Heel: 2 mm Blade Height: 38 mm Handle: Ho Wood Oval Ferrule: Plastic
This knife features a kurouchi (blacksmith) finish with iron cladding, giving it a rustic, handmade appearance. The petty profile is ideal for smaller tasks like trimming, peeling, and precision work on the board or in hand. The grind is even for easy use by both right- and left-handed users. With its light weight and nimble feel, this knife offers excellent control and responsiveness. As with all carbon steel knives, it will develop a patina over time and should be kept clean and dry between uses.
What Customers Are Saying:
Customers appreciate the razor-sharp edge, ease of sharpening, and traditional feel of this knife. Many note its excellent control for detailed work and the character that comes with a hand-forged blade.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel core and iron cladding. Hand wash only and dry immediately after use. Do not cut frozen foods or bones. Allow a natural patina to develop, but remove any orange rust with a gentle abrasive like baking soda or Bar Keeper’s Friend.
