Blue #2, or Hitachi Aogami #2, earns its place in professional kitchens through a combination of edge sharpness, retention, and toughness that makes it one of the most trusted carbon steels in the Japanese knife tradition. Katsuto Tanaka heat-treats it to 62-63 HRC at Tanaka Kama Kogyo in Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture - a fourth-generation blacksmith shop whose roots trace back over 800 years.
The Togatta is a hybrid profile between gyuto and sujihiki - more forward weight than a standard gyuto, slightly narrower, suited for cooks who want reach and momentum through large prep. Made with Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC, the blade features a hand-applied nashiji finish and an even, double-bevel grind.
What Customers Are Saying: Two five-star reviews. Peter calls it super. Michael loves it - calls it a great knife across everything he uses it for.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel - the stainless cladding protects the flanks, but the exposed carbon edge will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after every use. Avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only; never put it in the dishwasher. Apply camellia oil for long-term storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC sharpens easily and rewards good technique. Strop regularly between sharpenings.
Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.Blacksmith: Katsuto Tanaka
Workshop: Tanaka Kama Kogyo
Location: Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Edge Steel: Blue #2 Carbon Steel
Cladding: Nashiji Stainless
HRC: 62-63
Finish: Nashiji
Edge Grind: Even (50/50), Double Bevel
Handle: Octagonal Oak with Burnt Urushi Finish
Weight: 6.7 oz (190 g)
Blade Length: 243 mm
Total Length: 395 mm
The Togatta is a hybrid profile between gyuto and sujihiki - more forward weight than a standard gyuto, slightly narrower, suited for cooks who want reach and momentum through large prep. Made with Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC, the blade features a hand-applied nashiji finish and an even, double-bevel grind.
What Customers Are Saying: Two five-star reviews. Peter calls it super. Michael loves it - calls it a great knife across everything he uses it for.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel - the stainless cladding protects the flanks, but the exposed carbon edge will patina naturally with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after every use. Avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only; never put it in the dishwasher. Apply camellia oil for long-term storage. Sharpen on quality water stones - Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC sharpens easily and rewards good technique. Strop regularly between sharpenings.
Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
Reviews
2 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Top knife Very nice knife.Posted By: Michael
9 people found this review helpful
I love this knife. I'll start first by saying this is my first wa 240 and it definitely feels much larger that a western 240 but I love it. Whoever made this handle did a fantastic job the matte type finish goes perfect with the hammered finish of the knife for a rustic look. On top of great looks so far the knife has been performing very well. I haven't got to use it much but it was very sharp otb after a few stropes. I will be using this one very often for sure. The blade has very good corrosion resistance as well which is nice. It's not stainless but you don't need to baby it like some other knives I have. My only negative comment and it's very small is I'd like to see the spine and Choil rounded just and hair more but it is still very comfortable. Awesome and beautiful knife. If you have a chance to buy one of the others jump on it.
9 people found this review helpful
I love this knife. I'll start first by saying this is my first wa 240 and it definitely feels much larger that a western 240 but I love it. Whoever made this handle did a fantastic job the matte type finish goes perfect with the hammered finish of the knife for a rustic look. On top of great looks so far the knife has been performing very well. I haven't got to use it much but it was very sharp otb after a few stropes. I will be using this one very often for sure. The blade has very good corrosion resistance as well which is nice. It's not stainless but you don't need to baby it like some other knives I have. My only negative comment and it's very small is I'd like to see the spine and Choil rounded just and hair more but it is still very comfortable. Awesome and beautiful knife. If you have a chance to buy one of the others jump on it.
