Hatsukokoro is based in Amagasaki, Japan, where they work with a wide network of blacksmiths and manufacturers to produce knives spanning entry-level to high-performance. The Kaijin line pairs a reactive Aogami Blue #2 carbon steel core with a stainless san mai cladding, so the edge keeps the sharpness and edge retention carbon steel is known for, while the rest of the blade stays easier to live with day to day than a fully reactive knife. Only the thin strip of exposed core at the cutting edge is reactive; the rest of the blade face is protected by the stainless cladding.
This kiritsuke blends the reach and general utility of a gyuto with the angled, tapered tip traditionally associated with a kiritsuke, giving you a long straight edge for board work along with a fine point for detail cuts near the tip. Unlike a traditional single-bevel kiritsuke, this version is ground with a double bevel, making it far more approachable to sharpen and maintain while still delivering that distinctive kiritsuke silhouette. With a blade length of just under 220mm and weighing 160g, it offers serious reach without feeling unwieldy. The blade is hardened to approximately 62 HRC and finished in kasumi, a satiny surface that shows off the san mai construction line where the stainless cladding meets the carbon core.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel at the edge, even under the stainless cladding, and will develop a patina with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after use, and never leave it wet, since the exposed edge can rust if neglected. Avoid cutting frozen foods or bones, and never use the blade to pry. Hand wash only.
This kiritsuke blends the reach and general utility of a gyuto with the angled, tapered tip traditionally associated with a kiritsuke, giving you a long straight edge for board work along with a fine point for detail cuts near the tip. Unlike a traditional single-bevel kiritsuke, this version is ground with a double bevel, making it far more approachable to sharpen and maintain while still delivering that distinctive kiritsuke silhouette. With a blade length of just under 220mm and weighing 160g, it offers serious reach without feeling unwieldy. The blade is hardened to approximately 62 HRC and finished in kasumi, a satiny surface that shows off the san mai construction line where the stainless cladding meets the carbon core.
Care Instructions: Blue #2 is a reactive carbon steel at the edge, even under the stainless cladding, and will develop a patina with use. Wipe and dry the blade immediately after use, and never leave it wet, since the exposed edge can rust if neglected. Avoid cutting frozen foods or bones, and never use the blade to pry. Hand wash only.
- Brand: Hatsukokoro
- Line: Kaijin
- Edge Steel: Blue #2 (Aogami #2) Carbon Steel
- Construction: San Mai, Stainless Clad
- HRC: 61-63
- Finish: Kasumi (Mist or Haze)
- Bevel: Even, Double Bevel
- Handle: Octagonal Ebony
- Weight: 5.6 oz (160 g)
- Blade Length: 216 mm
- Total Length: 355 mm
- Spine Thickness: 2 mm
- Blade Height: 48 mm
