The Yusaku Blue #2 Kurouchi Bunka 180mm is another strong offering from Kousuke Muneishi, a talented young 3rd-generation blacksmith from Tosa, Japan. Carrying on a family tradition that began in 1955 producing farming and forestry tools, Muneishi-san is now applying those forging skills to kitchen knives with impressive early results. We’ve been very encouraged by his work and look forward to seeing his craft continue to evolve.
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his work—“Saku” meaning to create, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and emerging skill, offering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 180mm bunka is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish preserves the forged character of the blade while helping to reduce maintenance on the upper portion. The grind is nicely executed, thin behind the edge for smooth cutting performance, and the profile offers a great balance of push cutting and tip work. The added length gives you more board coverage and versatility, while the burnt urushi oak octagonal handle provides a comfortable, secure grip.
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 Finish: Kurouchi Edge Steel: Aogami #2 (Blue Paper Steel) Cladding: Soft Iron Edge Grind: Even Weight: 5.9 oz (168 g) Blade Length: 185 mm Total Length: 337 mm Spine Thickness at Heel: 3 mm Blade Height: 45 mm Handle: Oak Urushi Octagonal
The Yusaku name reflects both the maker and his work—“Saku” meaning to create, and “Yu/Suke” referencing Kousuke himself. These knives represent a thoughtful blend of tradition and emerging skill, offering excellent performance at a very approachable price point.
This 180mm bunka is forged from Aogami #2 carbon steel with soft iron cladding using the san-mai method. The kurouchi finish preserves the forged character of the blade while helping to reduce maintenance on the upper portion. The grind is nicely executed, thin behind the edge for smooth cutting performance, and the profile offers a great balance of push cutting and tip work. The added length gives you more board coverage and versatility, while the burnt urushi oak octagonal handle provides a comfortable, secure grip.
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.
