The Yusaku Blue #2 Kiritsuke 240mm is a striking example of the work coming from Kousuke Muneishi, a talented young 3rd-generation blacksmith from Tosa, Japan. His grandfather founded Muneishi Cutlery Mfg in 1955 producing farming and forestry tools, and the family continues that tradition today under his father’s leadership, working primarily with Aogami #2 steel. Kousuke is now expanding into kitchen cutlery, and we’ve been very impressed with the quality and promise of his early work.
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his craft—“Saku” meaning work, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and new energy, delivering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 240mm kiritsuke is forged from Hitachi Blue #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish combined with a sandblasted shinogi line gives the blade a refined rustic look while helping reduce maintenance on the upper portion. The grind is well executed and thin behind the edge, providing smooth, efficient cutting performance. The kiritsuke profile offers a long, flat edge for push cutting along with a pronounced tip for precise work, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of kitchen tasks. The burnt urushi octagonal handle provides a comfortable, secure grip and complements the traditional aesthetic.
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.
Brand: Yusaku Blacksmith: Kousuke Muneishi Location: Tosa, Japan Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai Edge Steel: Hitachi Blue #2 Cladding: Soft Iron Finish: Kurouchi / Sand Blast Shinogi Edge Grind: Double Bevel (See Choil Photo) Weight: 7.4 oz (210 g) Blade Length: 243 mm Total Length: 396 mm Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm Blade Height: 47 mm Handle: Burnt Urushi Octagonal
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his craft—“Saku” meaning work, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and new energy, delivering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 240mm kiritsuke is forged from Hitachi Blue #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish combined with a sandblasted shinogi line gives the blade a refined rustic look while helping reduce maintenance on the upper portion. The grind is well executed and thin behind the edge, providing smooth, efficient cutting performance. The kiritsuke profile offers a long, flat edge for push cutting along with a pronounced tip for precise work, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of kitchen tasks. The burnt urushi octagonal handle provides a comfortable, secure grip and complements the traditional aesthetic.
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.
Reviews
1 review(s) WRITE A REVIEW (Reviews are subject to approval) Beautiful Knife. Laser sharp. Posted By: Corey
27 people found this review helpful
I just received the Yusaku Kiritsuke and I’m thoroughly impressed. The price is well below the value of what you get and it’s perfectly crafted to work at anything you want to throw at it. It’s stunning to see. Rough around the edges, yet refined for its purpose. I will be looking for more knives from Kosuke Muneishi. Thank you for the careful shipping and timely service.
27 people found this review helpful
I just received the Yusaku Kiritsuke and I’m thoroughly impressed. The price is well below the value of what you get and it’s perfectly crafted to work at anything you want to throw at it. It’s stunning to see. Rough around the edges, yet refined for its purpose. I will be looking for more knives from Kosuke Muneishi. Thank you for the careful shipping and timely service.
