San Tsubame Wood 7-inch Santoku Knife

The Tamahagane San Tsubame hand-hammered knives are crafted with a 3-ply stainless steel construction, featuring a V-G No. 5 core layer known for its exceptional hardness that serves as the cutting edge. Surrounding this core are two layers of SUS410 stainless steel, providing a softer and more stain-resistant shield that safeguards the cutting edge. Initially 20-mm thick, the steel undergoes a meticulous rolling process to eliminate impurities, resulting in a final thickness of 2-mm of highly pure and durable stainless steel, considered by some as a contemporary forging method.

The knife blade is ultimately refined to a thickness of 0.65-mm, with the outer layers measuring 0.675-mm, achieving a remarkable 61-Degree hardness on the Rockwell scale. Among various V-G stainless steels available, Kataoka opted for V-G No. 5 due to its ability to be hardened to the same extent as other V-G steels while offering superior edge retention and prolonged sharpness compared to its counterparts. Similar to the Tamahagane San Kyoto series, the San and San Tsubame knives boast finely beveled edges with an edge angle ranging between 14 and 15-Degree.

To fully appreciate the exceptional quality of the edge, one must first observe its impeccable mirror polish and then experience its cutting performance. Kataoka has successfully achieved a harmonious balance between sharpness and durability with these edges. The handle is meticulously crafted from dark, luxurious laminated wood, providing a warm and traditional feel when held, along with an elegant appearance in any kitchen setting. These knives are meticulously manufactured by Kataoka and Company in Niigata, Japan, where the word Tamahagane symbolizes "precious steel."

Key features of the Tamahagane San Tsubame knives include a 3-ply stainless steel composition with a VG-5 center and outer layers made of SUS410 stainless steel. The handle is constructed from dark laminated wood, hand-hammered, and sandblasted to achieve a matte finish. The edge angle ranges from 14 to 15-Degree, while the knives boast a remarkable 61-Degree hardness on the Rockwell scale.

product information: