Blue #2 (Aogami 2) carbon steel sits at the top of the Hitachi Blue Paper family below Aogami Super - bringing better edge retention and slightly improved corrosion resistance compared to White steel while keeping the sharpening response and cutting feel that make carbon steel the choice of serious cooks. Kawasaki Kajiya produces the Blue #2 line from their family forge in Shiroishi-cho, Saga Prefecture, Kyushu - a shop over 100 years old, now in its third and fourth generations under Mr. Kawasaki and his nephew Mr. Mizokami. Same traditional construction as their White #1 line: iron cladding, kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) finish, san mai, hand-forged from start to finish. The walnut octagonal handle with black plastic ferrule is cleaner and more refined than the traditional ho wood handle on the White #1 line.
At 136mm and 40mm blade height the compact santoku (three virtues) sits at the smaller end of the format - nimble and maneuverable, good for kitchens where space is tight or cooks who prefer a shorter blade for everyday prep. The flat heel profile handles push cuts cleanly and the gentle belly accommodates rocking technique when needed. Blue #2 is a forgiving carbon steel to sharpen and maintain - the edge comes up well on quality water stones and the slightly higher chromium compared to White steel means the reactive surface is a little more tolerant of brief lapses in drying care. 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.
At 136mm and 40mm blade height the compact santoku (three virtues) sits at the smaller end of the format - nimble and maneuverable, good for kitchens where space is tight or cooks who prefer a shorter blade for everyday prep. The flat heel profile handles push cuts cleanly and the gentle belly accommodates rocking technique when needed. Blue #2 is a forgiving carbon steel to sharpen and maintain - the edge comes up well on quality water stones and the slightly higher chromium compared to White steel means the reactive surface is a little more tolerant of brief lapses in drying care. 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: 3.4 oz (98g)
- Blade Length: 136mm
- Total Length: 270mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 3mm
- Blade Height: 40mm
- Photos: Gustavo Bermudez
