The santoku (three virtues) is the format that converts more cooks to Japanese knives than any other - compact, versatile, approachable for cooks of any skill level, and capable across the full range of daily prep. Katsuto Tanaka builds this one in Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, from Tanaka Kama Kogyo - a four-generation blacksmithing shop whose lineage traces back over 800 years to the aftermath of the Battle of Dannoura. The Blue #2 (Aogami 2) core is forge-welded san-mai into stainless steel cladding and finished with Tanaka-san's hand-hammered wavy face surface, which he applies by hand rather than with a press, producing a texture that varies slightly from knife to knife.
What sets this santoku apart from the standard format is its dimensions. At 173mm blade length with 52mm of height and a 4mm spine, this is a robust, solid knife - described accurately on the page as something that will appeal to cooks who want a blade that feels substantial and stiff in hand and on the board. It is heavier than a typical santoku at 158g, which gives it a confident, grounded feel through dense vegetables and harder proteins. The flat section at the heel transitions into a gentle belly midway along the edge, which allows for rocking cuts without losing the efficiency of the flat profile. A burnt oak octagonal handle completes the package. Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
What Customers Are Saying: The reviewer on this knife is a collector who owns seven Matsubara knives, six of them from the Wavy Face line. The consistent praise across the collection is for balance, edge retention, and the rustic hammered finish that draws regular compliments. Edge sharpness has not required any touching up despite regular use. The tone is that of someone who has made a deliberate choice to collect from this maker and has not been disappointed.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel that will develop a natural patina with use. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after each use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly between full sharpenings.
What sets this santoku apart from the standard format is its dimensions. At 173mm blade length with 52mm of height and a 4mm spine, this is a robust, solid knife - described accurately on the page as something that will appeal to cooks who want a blade that feels substantial and stiff in hand and on the board. It is heavier than a typical santoku at 158g, which gives it a confident, grounded feel through dense vegetables and harder proteins. The flat section at the heel transitions into a gentle belly midway along the edge, which allows for rocking cuts without losing the efficiency of the flat profile. A burnt oak octagonal handle completes the package. Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
What Customers Are Saying: The reviewer on this knife is a collector who owns seven Matsubara knives, six of them from the Wavy Face line. The consistent praise across the collection is for balance, edge retention, and the rustic hammered finish that draws regular compliments. Edge sharpness has not required any touching up despite regular use. The tone is that of someone who has made a deliberate choice to collect from this maker and has not been disappointed.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel that will develop a natural patina with use. Wipe and dry the blade thoroughly after each use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply a light coat of camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones and strop regularly between full sharpenings.
- Brand: Matsubara
- Blacksmith: Katsuto Tanaka
- Location: Nagasaki, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami 2)
- Cladding: Stainless
- Finish: Wavy Face (Hammered)
- Edge Grind: Even
- Handle: Burnt Oak Octagonal
- Weight: 5.6 oz (158g)
- Blade Length: 173mm
- Total Length: 310mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 4mm
- Blade Height: 52mm
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Great Cutlery Posted By: Michael Wilson
12 people found this review helpful
First of all this is a Matsubara knife. Superb quality.I own 7 of them in my large kitchen cutlery inventory.Six are of the hammered “wavy face”. These knives are extremely well balanced,and hold an excellent edge. I haven’t needed to sharpen any of them yet.The hammered finish is so rustic looking, and I get many compliments from friends. Just all around pleased to own these great knives. And thanks to CKTG for the quick shipping as usual.
12 people found this review helpful
First of all this is a Matsubara knife. Superb quality.I own 7 of them in my large kitchen cutlery inventory.Six are of the hammered “wavy face”. These knives are extremely well balanced,and hold an excellent edge. I haven’t needed to sharpen any of them yet.The hammered finish is so rustic looking, and I get many compliments from friends. Just all around pleased to own these great knives. And thanks to CKTG for the quick shipping as usual.
