Hatsukokoro Shinkiro 240mm Gyuto Aogami Super Nihei Damascus Kurouchi Wenge

 Hand forged and ground by blacksmith Takahiro Nihei, a very talented younger blacksmith who spent some of his formative years training at Yoshikane Hamono in Sanjo. Nihei-san runs his own workshop now and while the Sanjo influence is clear in the robust style with a very pronounced distal taper. 

Aogami super is famous for it's edge duration, the addition of tungsten and vanadium to it's alloy make for a toothy cutting feel as the edge begins to dull, aogami super holds its peak sharpness well but really gets its duration from it's ability to cut well as it dulls. 

These have a robust feel but a thin grind behind the edge for smooth cutting but are best suited for those familiar with the demands of a Japanese knife. No twisting or scraping the edge and especially no cutting bones or other hard items. 

This knife has a hard carbon steel core with iron cladding for added durability. The entire blade will develop a patina with use, especially with acidic foods. Special attention is needed to keep from rusting. Do not leave wet. Hand wash & dry, no dishwasher. Hardwood-end grain or softwood long grain cutting boards are preferred; avoid bamboo and plastic cutting boards. Rust can be removed with a light abrasive.