This Matsubara Blue #2 Nashiji Tall Nakiri 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.
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: 8.8 oz (250 g)
Blade Length: 168 mm
Total Length: 317 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 4 mm
Blade Height: 72 mm
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.
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.
