Tanaka Kama Kogyo is a fourth-generation blacksmith shop in Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture - a region whose metalworking tradition traces back over 800 years to the Battle of Dannoura, one of the decisive naval battles of feudal Japan. Katsuto Tanaka is the current principal blacksmith, carrying forward generations of forge-welded blade production in a part of Japan less celebrated than Sakai or Echizen but no less serious about its craft. Mark has a personal relationship with the Tanaka family and carries their work exclusively at CKTG.
The 272mm sujihiki is the professional standard slicing length in the Matsubara Blue #2 line - at 6.0 oz and 4mm spine enough blade for full-length cuts through whole fish and large roasts. Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC holds a fine slicing edge well and sharpens quickly. Even 50/50 double-bevel grind. CKTG exclusive US source for Matsubara. Free US shipping over $100.
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 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.
The 272mm sujihiki is the professional standard slicing length in the Matsubara Blue #2 line - at 6.0 oz and 4mm spine enough blade for full-length cuts through whole fish and large roasts. Blue #2 at 62-63 HRC holds a fine slicing edge well and sharpens quickly. Even 50/50 double-bevel grind. CKTG exclusive US source for Matsubara. Free US shipping over $100.
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 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.
- Blacksmith: Katsuto Tanaka
- Workshop: Tanaka Kama Kogyo
- Location: Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami #2) Carbon Steel
- Cladding: Stainless
- HRC: 62-63
- Finish: Nashiji
- Edge Grind: Even 50/50 Double Bevel
- Handle: Walnut Octagonal
- Weight: 6.0 oz (172g)
- Blade Length: 272mm
- Total Length: 420mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 4mm
