Chibi is a Japanese slang term meaning: "something small; runt." It's appropriate here since this is a small version of the very popular Shibata Tank that is quite a bit larger.
At this size and shape the knife is very similar to some of the bunkas we sell except a little shorter and a little taller. It has a great feel and the grinds are top-of-the-line.
The Tank is made from
Aogami Super steel with soft stainless steel cladding that has a kurouchi finish. Lest we forget, this knife carries all of the outstanding attributes that Shibata-san endows in his knives, in this case, a beautifully executed grind, and wonderful behind-the-edge thinness. Lastly, the uniqueness of the knife is further enhanced with the inclusion of a hand-engraved date stamp on each blade, attesting to the date of manufacture. A lovely octagonal handle made from rosewood completes this compelling and unusual package.
Blacksmith: Ikeda San
Sharpener: Shibata San
Location: Hiroshima, Japan
Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
Edge Steel: Aogami Super
Cladding: Stainless Steel
Rockwell Hardness: 63-64
Handle: Rosewood Octagonal
Blade Length: 140mm
Weight: 6.7oz / 190mm
Height: 59mm