Koutetsu

Koutetsu Type 3 AS Nakiri

£225.00

Currently out of stock (When is it back?) (0)

£225.00

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.

 
Product Code: KOU-012-##

About this range

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

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.

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

  • Blade Length: 163mm (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Length: 307mm (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 51.6mm (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.01mm (Spine width above the heel) 1.85mm (Measured 15mm from tip)
  • Total Weight: 158 grams

Range Specifications

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 things such as blade or wood finishes can vary. We will always endeavour to provide the most accurate measurements, photos and descriptions of our products.

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

Sayas, guards and knife protection

Protection & care for this knife

We recommend the magnolia nakiri saya or a nakiri size (22x5cm) blade guard for this knife.

Saya & Guards Knife Racks & Storage Sharpening & Blade Care

Meet the maker

Takayuki Shibata

Shibata san is one of the top knife sharpeners in Japan and his ranges are famed for the quality of sharpness and finish.