This Matsubara Blue #2 Nashiji Cleaver is a perfect tweener knife that sits comfortably between a traditional Japanese nakiri and a Chinese-style cleaver. It delivers powerful chopping performance while remaining nimble and easy to control. The compact profile and well-balanced weight make it a versatile choice for both professional chefs and home cooks looking to handle a wide range of prep tasks with confidence.
The blade is constructed using Blue #2 carbon steel—one of the most respected alloys in Japanese knife making—offering excellent edge retention, durability, and ease of sharpening. The stainless cladding helps protect the reactive core and reduces maintenance while giving the knife a handsome nashiji (pear-skin) finish. Each blade is hand-forged by Mr. Tanaka in Nagasaki, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Whether you are slicing and dicing vegetables, trimming proteins, or doing light butchery, this knife excels at cutting with precision and power. The tall blade offers plenty of knuckle clearance, and the thick spine adds heft for clean, confident cuts. Finished with a beautiful octagonal oak handle with a burnt urushi finish, this knife is as striking in appearance as it is in performance.Brand: Matsubara
Blacksmith: Mr. Tanaka
Location: Nagasaki
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Cladding: Nashiji Stainless
Edge Steel: Blue #2 Carbon Steel
Edge Grind: Even
Weight: 8.8 oz (250 g)
Edge Length: 168 mm
Total Length: 317 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 4 mm
Blade Height: 72 mm
Handle: Octagonal Oak with Burnt Urushi Finish
The blade is constructed using Blue #2 carbon steel—one of the most respected alloys in Japanese knife making—offering excellent edge retention, durability, and ease of sharpening. The stainless cladding helps protect the reactive core and reduces maintenance while giving the knife a handsome nashiji (pear-skin) finish. Each blade is hand-forged by Mr. Tanaka in Nagasaki, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Whether you are slicing and dicing vegetables, trimming proteins, or doing light butchery, this knife excels at cutting with precision and power. The tall blade offers plenty of knuckle clearance, and the thick spine adds heft for clean, confident cuts. Finished with a beautiful octagonal oak handle with a burnt urushi finish, this knife is as striking in appearance as it is in performance.
