Yoshimi Kato has taken the reins of the workshop founded by his father-in-law, Hiroshi Kato, and is widely regarded as one of the leading blacksmiths working in Echizen today. His knives reflect a careful balance of traditional craftsmanship, refined aesthetics, and practical performance.
This 150mm petty is forged using VG-10 stainless steel, a proven Japanese cutlery steel valued for strong edge retention, excellent wear resistance, and high corrosion resistance - the same steel trusted by respected names like Shun and Miyabi. The VG-10 core is clad in softer stainless steel and hammer forged to create a flowing suminagashi (Damascus) pattern, with the upper blade road transitioning into the signature nashiji (pear skin) finish that gives the knife its distinctive character. With its longer edge length compared to the 120mm version, this petty offers added reach and versatility while retaining the precision and control Kato is known for - performing beautifully for both in-hand work and light board tasks like slicing fruit, trimming proteins, and prepping vegetables. The blade is rigid and responsive, moving effortlessly through herbs and small ingredients.
Care Instructions: VG-10 is a fully stainless steel - low maintenance and resistant to corrosion. Hand wash and dry after each use. Avoid the dishwasher. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.
This 150mm petty is forged using VG-10 stainless steel, a proven Japanese cutlery steel valued for strong edge retention, excellent wear resistance, and high corrosion resistance - the same steel trusted by respected names like Shun and Miyabi. The VG-10 core is clad in softer stainless steel and hammer forged to create a flowing suminagashi (Damascus) pattern, with the upper blade road transitioning into the signature nashiji (pear skin) finish that gives the knife its distinctive character. With its longer edge length compared to the 120mm version, this petty offers added reach and versatility while retaining the precision and control Kato is known for - performing beautifully for both in-hand work and light board tasks like slicing fruit, trimming proteins, and prepping vegetables. The blade is rigid and responsive, moving effortlessly through herbs and small ingredients.
Care Instructions: VG-10 is a fully stainless steel - low maintenance and resistant to corrosion. Hand wash and dry after each use. Avoid the dishwasher. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.
- Blacksmith: Yoshimi Kato
- Location: Echizen, Japan
- Workshop: Takefu Village
- Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
- Edge Steel: VG-10 Stainless
- Cladding: Stainless Damascus
- Edge Grind: Even 50/50
- Handle: Walnut
- Weight: 2.8 oz (80 g)
- Blade Length: 150mm
- Total Length: 279mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 3mm
- Blade Height: 30mm
