Hitohira Gorobei Rikichi 165mm Santoku Shirogami 2 Kasumi Ho Wood

Hand forged iron clad shirogami 2 carbon steel with a right biased convex ‘hamaguri’ grind (more convexity on the right hand outside of blade) making for fine precise work with excellent food release. The iron cladding has a fine hazy finish surface which also aides in food release. 

We have been very impressed with this series from Hitohira. These Gorobei knives are thinly ground, light and nimble but still feel in charge during work. Their slightly taller  blades allow for more clearance without feeling wobbly. 

This excellent treatment of shirogami gets phenomenally sharp very easily, while it is not pre-engineered for edge life, it is a sharpeners dream steel. It is a blank canvas for experimenting with different finishing stones. 

Shirogami is a reactive carbon steel. It should be dried immediately after use to avoid rusting. It will patina with normal use. Rust can be removed with a light abrasive.