The difference between White #1 and Blue #2 (Aogami 2) carbon steel is a matter of degree and character. White #1 is the purer, more reactive steel - exceptionally responsive on the stone, extremely sharp, but requiring attentive care. Blue #2 adds chromium and tungsten to the formula, which gives it better edge retention and a slight improvement in corrosion resistance while keeping the essential quality that makes Japanese carbon steel worth using: the ability to take and hold a genuinely sharp edge that stainless cannot replicate. Kawasaki Kajiya, a family blacksmith shop in Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Kyushu, has been working with both steels for over 100 years. Now in its third and fourth generations under Mr. Kawasaki and his nephew Mr. Mizokami, the shop produces the Blue #2 line alongside the White #1 lineup - same construction, different steel, different character.
The tall petty is the compact anchor of the Blue #2 lineup. At 110mm with 40mm blade height and a 2mm spine, it is a small knife with more board capability than the format usually offers. The extra height gives knuckle clearance, opens up rocking cuts, and makes the flat face useful for small bench-scraping work between cuts. Blue #2 at this construction level - iron cladding, kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) finish, san mai - is a working knife with genuine character that develops a patina and becomes more interesting over time. The walnut octagonal handle and black plastic ferrule are a step up from the ho wood oval on the White #1 line, with a more contemporary feel. Photos by Gustavo Bermudez.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding will also develop color over time. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly.
The tall petty is the compact anchor of the Blue #2 lineup. At 110mm with 40mm blade height and a 2mm spine, it is a small knife with more board capability than the format usually offers. The extra height gives knuckle clearance, opens up rocking cuts, and makes the flat face useful for small bench-scraping work between cuts. Blue #2 at this construction level - iron cladding, kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) finish, san mai - is a working knife with genuine character that develops a patina and becomes more interesting over time. The walnut octagonal handle and black plastic ferrule are a step up from the ho wood oval on the White #1 line, with a more contemporary feel. Photos by Gustavo Bermudez.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding will also develop color over time. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly.
- Blacksmith: Kawasaki San
- Location: Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: Hitachi Blue #2 (Aogami 2)
- Cladding: Iron
- Finish: Kurouchi (Black Finish)
- Edge Grind: Even
- Handle: Walnut Octagonal
- Ferrule: Black Plastic
- Weight: 2.7 oz (78g)
- Blade Length: 111mm
- Total Length: 239mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 2mm
- Blade Height: 40mm
- Photos: Gustavo Bermudez
