Takeda Stainless Clad Bunka 160mm

Takeda Aogami Super Bunka 170mm

Bunkas are essentially nakiri style knives with an angled tip added for extra versatility, and this Takeda interpretation is a standout example of the form. This knife features a tall blade with a very thin, high edge bevel and a precise 50/50 compound grind that excels at push cutting, chopping, and fine tip work.

The core steel is Aogami Super, heat treated to approximately 62 HRC. This allows the blade to take an exceptionally sharp edge while maintaining enough toughness for real-world kitchen use. Edge retention is excellent, and the steel responds beautifully to sharpening.

The carbon steel core is laminated with stainless cladding and finished with a kurouchi surface that has become a Takeda signature. This construction helps reduce maintenance while preserving the performance and character that Takeda knives are known for. Food release is strong for a blade of this height, and the thin grind makes cutting feel effortless.

Takeda knives have developed a cult following among knife enthusiasts and are widely regarded as a benchmark for tall Japanese performance cutlery. Each knife is forged and ground entirely by hand, resulting in subtle variations that make every piece unique.

Care Instructions: Hand wash only and dry immediately after use. Although the blade has stainless cladding, the exposed carbon steel edge can patina or rust if left wet. Avoid cutting frozen foods, bones, or very hard items. Use a wooden or soft synthetic cutting board, and store the knife safely when not in use.

Limit: One per customer.

What Customers Are Saying: Reviewers consistently call this bunka thin, nimble, and a genuine pleasure to use, with one saying it puts a smile on their face every time they pick it up. One customer waited six to eight months for it to come back in stock and called it the best purchase they have ever made. Another mentioned it has completely replaced the blade they used to reach for most.

• Brand: Takeda Hamono
• Blacksmith: Shosui Takeda
• Location: Niimi, Japan
• Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
• Core Steel: Aogami Super
• Cladding: Stainless
• Finish: Kurouchi
• Handle: Rosewood, Octagonal
• Ferrule: Black Pakka Wood
• Edge Grind: Even 50/50
• Weight: 4.2 oz
• Blade Length: 160 mm (6.3 in)
• Overall Length: 295 mm
• Thickness at Heel: 2.5 mm
• Blade Height: 55.1 mm
• Please note: All measurements are approximate. Takeda-san and his small team make each knife entirely by hand without the use of templates. As a result, every knife is unique and specifications will vary slightly.