ZDP-189 is a powdered stainless steel produced by Hitachi that achieves 65+ HRC through a grain structure only powder metallurgy can produce. The edge retention is exceptional - significantly above what any conventional steel achieves at comparable hardness. Katsuto Tanaka at Tanaka Kama Kogyo in Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture applies his four-generation forge-welded technique to this demanding steel, producing a blade that combines the premium performance of ZDP-189 with the distinctive Matsubara character. CKTG is the exclusive US source.
The ZDP-189 Damascus gyuto at 218mm blade length is the premium chef knife in the Matsubara lineup - the finest steel, the finest cladding, and the personal attention of Katsuto Tanaka on the finishing. At 65+ HRC, 6.9 oz, 2mm spine. Stainless Damascus cladding. Exceptional edge retention. Even 50/50 double-bevel grind. CKTG exclusive US source for Matsubara. Free US shipping over $100.
Care Instructions: ZDP-189 is a fully stainless powdered steel - low maintenance and resistant to corrosion. Hand wash and dry after each use. Avoid the dishwasher. Use wood or rubber cutting boards only. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials - at 65+ HRC the edge is extremely hard and chips more easily than softer steels if misused. Sharpen on quality water stones with consistent angle and light pressure. Strop regularly to maintain the edge between sharpenings.
The ZDP-189 Damascus gyuto at 218mm blade length is the premium chef knife in the Matsubara lineup - the finest steel, the finest cladding, and the personal attention of Katsuto Tanaka on the finishing. At 65+ HRC, 6.9 oz, 2mm spine. Stainless Damascus cladding. Exceptional edge retention. Even 50/50 double-bevel grind. CKTG exclusive US source for Matsubara. Free US shipping over $100.
Care Instructions: ZDP-189 is a fully stainless powdered steel - low maintenance and resistant to corrosion. Hand wash and dry after each use. Avoid the dishwasher. Use wood or rubber cutting boards only. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials - at 65+ HRC the edge is extremely hard and chips more easily than softer steels if misused. Sharpen on quality water stones with consistent angle and light pressure. Strop regularly to maintain the edge between sharpenings.
- Blacksmith: Katsuto Tanaka
- Workshop: Tanaka Kama Kogyo
- Location: Omura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: ZDP-189 Powdered Stainless Steel
- Cladding: Stainless Damascus
- HRC: 65+
- Finish: Damascus
- Edge Grind: Even 50/50 Double Bevel
- Handle: Walnut Octagonal
- Weight: 6.9 oz (196g)
- Blade Length: 218mm
- Total Length: 366mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 2mm
