Koutetsu Type 3 AS Nakiri

We've been very fortunate to secure this limited stock of nakiri from Shibata san's first batch of less than 100 knives made to join his classic AS collection. 

As with all Shibata Koutetsu knives, the classy understated hairline migaki finish and laser profile combine to make an exceptional cutting experience and fantastic value knife.

 

All orders shipped UK and Worldwide are sent fully tracked and insured as standard and we dispatch on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

UK Shipping

  • Free DPD Shipping on all orders over £100
  • Orders under £100 are charged a small fee and different delivery speeds and services are available to select at checkout

If your order contains a blade, no matter what the price it will be dispatched with DPD and ID will be required on delivery.

Worldwide

  • Flat rate - £25 on orders under £350
  • Free Shipping on all orders over £350

Some international exclusions apply and all orders sent outside UK are dispatched DDU (Duties Unpaid) and payment of local tax and import duty is the responsibility of the customer.

Postage and returns

Product Code: KOU-012-##

First Impressions

Top marks - So sharp out of the box, light, and will fly through any amount of prep work you can throw at it.

Beauty

These knives have a beautiful shape, very simple and stylish with no decoration beyond the engraved kanji on the brushed finish. You'll love these if you like understated beauty.

In Hand

The lightweight blade and comfortable traditional octagonal wa handle work well as you'd expect but it's also nice to see a real level of care and attention taken to round off the edges along the spine and around the heel of the knife. 

Often that's something that's not always done on Japanese knives but it's little touches like this that elevate the Kotetsu knives and makes them so highly coveted.

Durability

The super blue core hardened to approximately 63-64 is going to provide a durable and robust edge and while the extremely thin grind and hardness will mean you might need to ensure your cutting technique is precise, this is a blade that with care and normal maintenance is designed and expected to last many years.

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

As long as you follow the normal care instructions for Japanese knives you can expect this knife to serve you for many years. 

We would recommend using a drop or two of camellia oil periodically to help protect the carbon steel core.

Our Verdict

The high quality blade and handle perform well and combined look the part without breaking the bank. If you're looking for performance at a very reasonable price then the AS is for you.

Over the last few years, knives from the Koutetsu ranges have become quite collectable due to the scarcity of the supply and its excellent performance and price point.

Koutetsu Type 3 AS Nakiri - Product quick view

Want to see a little more of the knife? Check out what the knife looks like in hand and up close.

Knife Measurements - Koutetsu Type 3 AS Nakiri

  • Blade Edge Length: 163mm / 6.42" (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Knife Length: 307mm / 12.09" (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 51.6mm / 2.03" (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.01mm / 0.08" (Spine width above the heel) 1.85mm / 0.07" (Measured 15mm from tip)
  • Total Weight: 158 grams / 5.57 oz

Range Specifications

  • Core Steel: Aogami Super Blue Steel
  • Cladding Steel: Stainless
  • Hardness: 63-64 (HRC)
  • Handle Style: Japanese (Wa)
  • Handle Material: Octagonal rosewood
  • Left or Right handed: Suitable for both (Double Bevel)

Our aim is to measure and photograph our products as accurately as possible but due to many items being handmade, finished or using natural materials, there can be minor variance in measurements and finishes.

Some measurements such as HRC are provided by manufacturers and should therefore be used as a guide.

Meet the maker

Koutetsu

Koutetsu knives are the creation of master sharpener Takayuki Shibata, an integral figure in modern Japanese knife making.

Based in Hiroshima, Shibata began his career as a professional sharpener, earning a reputation for producing remarkably consistent, razor-sharp edges. His deep understanding of steel, edge geometry and finishing led him to establish his own brand, Koutetsu – named after Japan’s first iron clad battleship, symbolising strength, innovation and craftsmanship.

Each Koutetsu knife is made in collaboration with skilled blacksmiths and finished by Shibata himself, ensuring an exceptional balance of precision, lightness and performance. Known for their thin blades and refined cutting feel, Koutetsu knives are instantly recognisable for their flawless sharpness straight out of the box.

Beyond his own brand, Shibata is also a key figure in the Japanese knife world, with his own Masakage brand and supporting the distribution of Kurosaki Knives. His work represents the pursuit of perfection in every way.

View all Koutetsu products

Helping you find the perfect knives & accessories

Cutting Edge Knives is a proudly independent family run small business established in 2011 and based in the picturesque town of Holmfirth, West Yorkshire in the UK.

We love the history and craftsmanship that goes into making Japanese chef knives and accessories and the excitement and enjoyment you experience when using a truly sharp knife in the kitchen. Over many years we've helped thousands of happy customers find their dream knife and look forward to helping you too.

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