This compact companion to the Large Tank shares the same unusual coreless Damascus construction - a layered blend of VG10 and VG2 stainless steel with no single core doing all the work. The result is a hard edge that the maker claims delivers roughly twice the longevity and one and a half times the sharpness of a standard VG10 blade, hardened to approximately 61 HRC for genuine edge retention without sacrificing easy sharpening on water stones.
With a blade length of just 120mm, this Small Tank earns its kengata-mini-cleaver classification: small enough for detail work and in-hand tasks, but tall enough to carry real presence and chopping authority on the board. The double bevel edge handles precise cuts as well as forceful ones, and the wenge wood octagonal handle keeps the knife comfortable and well balanced despite its compact size. This is a fun, distinctive little knife for cooks who want something different from the standard petty or utility blade.
Care Instructions: Although this is a stainless steel blade, hand wash and dry after each use and avoid the dishwasher. Use wood or rubber cutting boards and avoid twisting or prying with the edge. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.Manufacturer: Sakai Takayuki
Location: Sakai, Japan
Construction: Roll Forged
Edge Steel: VG10 and VG2 Layered Coreless Damascus Stainless
HRC: 61
Knife Type: Kengata-Mini-Cleaver
Edge Grind: Double Bevel (50/50)
Handle: Wenge Octagonal
Weight: 3.5 oz (100 g)
Blade Length: 120 mm
Total Length: 265 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 2 mm
Blade Height: 48 mm
With a blade length of just 120mm, this Small Tank earns its kengata-mini-cleaver classification: small enough for detail work and in-hand tasks, but tall enough to carry real presence and chopping authority on the board. The double bevel edge handles precise cuts as well as forceful ones, and the wenge wood octagonal handle keeps the knife comfortable and well balanced despite its compact size. This is a fun, distinctive little knife for cooks who want something different from the standard petty or utility blade.
Care Instructions: Although this is a stainless steel blade, hand wash and dry after each use and avoid the dishwasher. Use wood or rubber cutting boards and avoid twisting or prying with the edge. Sharpen on quality water stones as needed.
