Masakage is a collective of Japanese knife makers that brings together independent blacksmiths working across multiple styles and steels under one brand umbrella. The Mizu line is produced by Ikeda-san at Takefu Knife Village in Echizen - the same blacksmith who forges the Anryu AS line under the Anryu Hamono name. Ikeda-san trained under master blacksmith Katsushige Anryu, one of the founders of Takefu Knife Village, and now carries forward that tradition across multiple lines. The Mizu name references water - appropriate for a kurouchi construction where the dark as-forged surface of the iron cladding and the polished Blue #2 edge create a visual contrast between the two materials.
At 75mm this is one of the most compact petty knives we carry - sized specifically for in-hand work on small produce, garnishes, and the kind of detail cuts where blade length is a liability rather than an asset. The Blue #2 (Aogami 2) core is hardened to 62-64 HRC, which is genuinely hard for this format and delivers an edge retention and sharpness that stainless petty knives at this size cannot match. The iron cladding and reactive core will both develop a patina with regular use - the kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) provides an initial layer of protection for the cladding, and the developing patina builds on that over time. At 48g with a 3mm spine, the knife has a solid, confident feel despite its small footprint. The oval Japanese cherry wood handle with resin ferrule is comfortable and well-proportioned for the blade. Corrected from the original spec: listed as Edge Length, should read Blade Length.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding is also reactive and will develop color over time. Wipe and dry thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones.
At 75mm this is one of the most compact petty knives we carry - sized specifically for in-hand work on small produce, garnishes, and the kind of detail cuts where blade length is a liability rather than an asset. The Blue #2 (Aogami 2) core is hardened to 62-64 HRC, which is genuinely hard for this format and delivers an edge retention and sharpness that stainless petty knives at this size cannot match. The iron cladding and reactive core will both develop a patina with regular use - the kurouchi (black finish, as-forged surface) provides an initial layer of protection for the cladding, and the developing patina builds on that over time. At 48g with a 3mm spine, the knife has a solid, confident feel despite its small footprint. The oval Japanese cherry wood handle with resin ferrule is comfortable and well-proportioned for the blade. Corrected from the original spec: listed as Edge Length, should read Blade Length.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel and will develop a patina with use. The iron cladding is also reactive and will develop color over time. Wipe and dry thoroughly after every use and avoid leaving acidic foods on the edge. Hand wash only - no dishwasher. Apply camellia oil before extended storage. Sharpen on quality water stones.
- Brand: Masakage
- Line: Mizu
- Blacksmith: Ikeda San
- Location: Echizen, Japan
- Workshop: Takefu Knife Village
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami 2)
- Cladding: Iron
- Finish: Kurouchi (Black Finish)
- HRC: 62-64
- Handle: Japanese Cherry Wood Oval
- Ferrule: Resin
- Weight: 1.7 oz (48g)
- Blade Length: 75mm
- Total Length: 201mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 3mm
- Blade Height: 26mm
