Tanaka Kama Kogyo is a fourth-generation blacksmith and owner of Matsubara Hamono, located outside Nagasaki, Japan. With centuries of knife and tool making behind the company, their work reflects a deep tradition of craftsmanship paired with excellent cutting performance. This gyuto draws inspiration from the classic Sabatier profile—a shape prized for its versatility, smooth rocking motion, and balanced feel. Matsubara’s take delivers that familiar profile with a distinctly Japanese execution and finish.
At the core is Blue #2 high carbon steel from Hitachi, known for its fine grain, excellent edge retention, and ability to take a very sharp edge. The blade is clad in stainless steel, leaving only the polished edge exposed and reactive, which helps reduce maintenance while preserving the benefits of carbon steel. The hand-applied nashiji finish not only gives the knife a rustic, attractive look but also aids in food release. As with most harder carbon steels, care should be taken to avoid bones, frozen foods, or hard squash to prevent chipping.
The knife is fitted with an octagonal burnt oak handle finished in Urushi lacquer, offering a comfortable grip and a unique, traditional appearance. Fit and finish are excellent, and each knife carries the small variations that come from true hand craftsmanship.
What Customers Are Saying: Owners consistently praise this knife for its blend of performance and character. Customers note excellent out-of-the-box sharpness and strong cutting feel, along with better-than-expected corrosion resistance for a carbon core blade. The burnt oak Urushi handle receives particular attention for its craftsmanship and how well it complements the rustic nashiji finish. Some mention that the wa-style 240mm feels larger than a western equivalent, but most quickly come to appreciate the added length and versatility. Minor feedback includes a desire for slightly more rounding on the spine and choil, though overall comfort remains high.
Care Instructions: Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Avoid cutting hard items such as bones or frozen food. Dry thoroughly before storage to prevent rust on the exposed edge.
Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
Brand: Matsubara Location: Nagasaki, Japan Blacksmith: Tanaka-san Construction: San Mai Steel: Blue #2 Carbon Steel Cladding: Stainless Finish: Nashiji (Hand Applied) Knife Type: Gyuto Edge Grind: Even (50/50) Engraving: Hand Engraved Weight: 6.7 oz (190 g) Blade Length: 243 mm Total Length: 395 mm Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm Blade Height: 50 mm Handle: Burnt Oak with Urushi Finish (octagonal)
At the core is Blue #2 high carbon steel from Hitachi, known for its fine grain, excellent edge retention, and ability to take a very sharp edge. The blade is clad in stainless steel, leaving only the polished edge exposed and reactive, which helps reduce maintenance while preserving the benefits of carbon steel. The hand-applied nashiji finish not only gives the knife a rustic, attractive look but also aids in food release. As with most harder carbon steels, care should be taken to avoid bones, frozen foods, or hard squash to prevent chipping.
The knife is fitted with an octagonal burnt oak handle finished in Urushi lacquer, offering a comfortable grip and a unique, traditional appearance. Fit and finish are excellent, and each knife carries the small variations that come from true hand craftsmanship.
What Customers Are Saying: Owners consistently praise this knife for its blend of performance and character. Customers note excellent out-of-the-box sharpness and strong cutting feel, along with better-than-expected corrosion resistance for a carbon core blade. The burnt oak Urushi handle receives particular attention for its craftsmanship and how well it complements the rustic nashiji finish. Some mention that the wa-style 240mm feels larger than a western equivalent, but most quickly come to appreciate the added length and versatility. Minor feedback includes a desire for slightly more rounding on the spine and choil, though overall comfort remains high.
Care Instructions: Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Avoid cutting hard items such as bones or frozen food. Dry thoroughly before storage to prevent rust on the exposed edge.
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.
