The Masakage Mizu Blue #2 Bunka 170mm is a striking, hand-forged knife from Echizen, Japan, crafted by Ikeda San for the Masakage workshop. Known for blending rustic aesthetics with serious cutting performance, the Mizu line delivers powerful geometry in a compact, versatile bunka profile that excels at vegetables, proteins, and detailed prep work.
The blade is forged in san mai construction with an Aogami (Blue) #2 carbon steel core, heat-treated to approximately 62–64 HRC for excellent sharpness and edge retention. It is clad in soft iron and finished with a deep black kurouchi coating for a traditional, hand-crafted appearance. Both the core and cladding are reactive and will develop a natural patina with use. This version is fitted with a burnt oak urushi handle, a significant upgrade that dramatically elevates the look and feel of the knife—similar to upgrading wheels on a car. The urushi finish adds warmth, depth, durability, and improved grip while giving the knife a more refined, premium presentation.
Care Instructions: This knife is fully reactive carbon steel. Wipe clean and dry immediately after use, especially during extended prep sessions. Avoid bones, frozen foods, or twisting cuts to prevent chipping. Store dry on a magnetic strip or in a saya when not in use.Brand: Masakage
Line: Mizu
Blacksmith: Ikeda San
Location: Echizen, Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Core Steel: Aogami (Blue) #2
Cladding: Iron
Finish: Kurouchi
Weight: 5.1 oz (145 g)
Edge Length: 173 mm
Total Length: 319 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 4 mm
Blade Height: 47 mm
Handle: Burnt Oak Urushi
The blade is forged in san mai construction with an Aogami (Blue) #2 carbon steel core, heat-treated to approximately 62–64 HRC for excellent sharpness and edge retention. It is clad in soft iron and finished with a deep black kurouchi coating for a traditional, hand-crafted appearance. Both the core and cladding are reactive and will develop a natural patina with use. This version is fitted with a burnt oak urushi handle, a significant upgrade that dramatically elevates the look and feel of the knife—similar to upgrading wheels on a car. The urushi finish adds warmth, depth, durability, and improved grip while giving the knife a more refined, premium presentation.
Care Instructions: This knife is fully reactive carbon steel. Wipe clean and dry immediately after use, especially during extended prep sessions. Avoid bones, frozen foods, or twisting cuts to prevent chipping. Store dry on a magnetic strip or in a saya when not in use.
