While it looks like an oversized bunka at first glance, this 210mm blade from Yoshimitsu is more accurately called a hakata bocho, a regional variation built with a triangular pointed tip and a gently curved spine. CKTG was the first US retailer to bring in knives from this five brother shop near Nagasaki, and this hakata bocho has become one of the most distinctive blades in the lineup.
The core is Hitachi Blue #2 carbon steel, hardened to about 62 HRC and wrapped san mai style in a soft stainless steel layer that protects the core and eases daily maintenance. The blade height of 49mm gives plenty of board clearance, and the edge is ground quite flat, favoring push style cutting. Despite its length, the pointed tanto style tip still allows for precise work on smaller foods and garnishes. The handle is an octagonal walnut with a black pakka wood ferrule, finished with hand stamped kanji.
Care Instructions:The exposed Blue #2 edge is reactive, so wipe and dry the blade immediately after each use rather than letting it sit. Avoid leaving acidic foods against the blade for long periods, and apply a light coat of camellia oil for longer term storage. Hand wash only, and given the length of this blade, store it where it will not knock against other tools in a drawer.
The core is Hitachi Blue #2 carbon steel, hardened to about 62 HRC and wrapped san mai style in a soft stainless steel layer that protects the core and eases daily maintenance. The blade height of 49mm gives plenty of board clearance, and the edge is ground quite flat, favoring push style cutting. Despite its length, the pointed tanto style tip still allows for precise work on smaller foods and garnishes. The handle is an octagonal walnut with a black pakka wood ferrule, finished with hand stamped kanji.
Care Instructions:The exposed Blue #2 edge is reactive, so wipe and dry the blade immediately after each use rather than letting it sit. Avoid leaving acidic foods against the blade for long periods, and apply a light coat of camellia oil for longer term storage. Hand wash only, and given the length of this blade, store it where it will not knock against other tools in a drawer.
- Brand: Yoshimitsu
- Blacksmith: Yoshimitsu Brothers
- Location: Nagasaki, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged San Mai
- Edge Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami #2)
- Cladding: Stainless Steel
- HRC: 62
- Engraving: Hand Stamped
- Handle: Walnut Octagonal
- Ferrule: Black Pakka Wood
- Weight: 5.2 oz (147 g)
- Blade Length: 208 mm
- Total Length: 355 mm
- Spine Thickness at Base: 2 mm
- Blade Height: 49 mm
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