The Yusaku Blue #2 Bunka 165mm is an exciting offering from Kousuke Muneishi, a talented young 3rd-generation blacksmith from Tosa, Japan. Continuing a family tradition that began in 1955 producing farming and forestry tools, Muneishi-san is now expanding into kitchen cutlery, bringing that same forging experience into a new arena. We have been very impressed with his early work and look forward to watching his craft continue to develop.
The Yusaku line reflects this new chapter, with kanji that ties directly to the name Kousuke - Saku meaning work, and Yu/Suke referencing the maker himself. These knives represent both tradition and forward momentum, offering strong performance at an excellent value.
This 165mm bunka is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. It features a kurouchi finish that preserves the forged character of the blade, along with a well-executed grind that is thin behind the edge for excellent cutting performance. The bunka profile adds versatility with a slightly flatter edge and a pointed tip that excels at detail work, making it a great all-around choice for both home cooks and professionals. The burnt urushi octagonal handle provides a comfortable grip and complements the rustic aesthetic of the blade.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel edge. Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Do not leave wet or soak. Avoid cutting hard or frozen foods. A patina will develop over time, which is normal and helps protect the steel.
What Customers Are Saying: The one review so far is from a customer only a week into ownership, who reports it arrived with an already excellent edge, good weight balance, and a comfortable handle, though they noted it is too early to speak to long term performance.
The Yusaku line reflects this new chapter, with kanji that ties directly to the name Kousuke - Saku meaning work, and Yu/Suke referencing the maker himself. These knives represent both tradition and forward momentum, offering strong performance at an excellent value.
This 165mm bunka is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. It features a kurouchi finish that preserves the forged character of the blade, along with a well-executed grind that is thin behind the edge for excellent cutting performance. The bunka profile adds versatility with a slightly flatter edge and a pointed tip that excels at detail work, making it a great all-around choice for both home cooks and professionals. The burnt urushi octagonal handle provides a comfortable grip and complements the rustic aesthetic of the blade.
Care Instructions: This knife has a reactive carbon steel edge. Hand wash and dry immediately after use. Do not leave wet or soak. Avoid cutting hard or frozen foods. A patina will develop over time, which is normal and helps protect the steel.
What Customers Are Saying: The one review so far is from a customer only a week into ownership, who reports it arrived with an already excellent edge, good weight balance, and a comfortable handle, though they noted it is too early to speak to long term performance.
- Brand: Yusaku
- Blacksmith: Kousuke Muneishi
- Location: Tosa, Japan
- Construction: San Mai, Hammer Forged
- Edge Steel: Aogami #2 (Blue Paper Steel)
- Cladding: Soft Iron
- Edge Grind: Even (See Photo)
- Weight: 4.7 oz (134 g)
- Blade Length: 171 mm
- Total Length: 305 mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm
- Blade Height: 45 mm
- Handle: Burnt Urushi Octagonal
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Love it!Posted By: Thalia
21 people found this review helpful
I've only had it about a week now, so I can't speak on the long term yet, but it came perfect! An amazing edge already to it, really well weighted, light but not overly so, and the handle is comfortable in my hand.
21 people found this review helpful
I've only had it about a week now, so I can't speak on the long term yet, but it came perfect! An amazing edge already to it, really well weighted, light but not overly so, and the handle is comfortable in my hand.
