Takeshi Saji AS Kurouchi Santoku

Regular price £310.00
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An absolutely iconic knife from a master blacksmith paired with a classic ironwood handle.

First Impressions

An excellent grind and consistent finish are exactly what you'd expect from this level and from a blacksmith of this experience and skill and it doesn't disappoint.

Beauty

We do think that there's an easy to spot style for Saji-san's knives and while the AS collection doesn't have the visual wow of the famous rainbow damascus, it's fair to say that by any sensible measure this is a darn good looking knife. 

The kurouchi finish is somewhat rustic and it's reasonable to say that on some of the knives you might want to give them a bit of a scrub when you start using them to tidy them up because it really is a "blacksmith finish" on some of them, leaving forging material on the cladding.

The absolutely fabulous heavyweight full tang handles with its polished collar and pins that just add the right amount of visual pop while remaining classy and understated.

In Hand

The full tang handle and thick blade is perhaps not for everyone - it's a very comfortable and nicely tapered handle and while it's a wonderfully balanced and nimble knife, it does feel like you're working with something quite hefty so if you're more keen on a lighter weight it might be something to bear in mind.

Durability

The AS core is hardened to around 63-64 so edge retention is good and it's a popular steel choice and hardness with many blacksmiths for a good reason so durability won't be a problem.

Ease of Care

There's not a great deal to worry about with this one, it's a reactive steel but beyond our normal care tips and looking after carbon steel with a few drops of camellia oil every now again, you'll find it pretty easy to sharpen and care for.

Our Verdict

The AS Kurouchi is a classic knife from one of the best blacksmiths in Japan and when you pair the high quality finish and grind quality of the blade with the full tang ironwood and custom handles it's an extremely impressive knife in every respect and an investment in quality that you will be happy to have masde.

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Product details

  • Blade Length: 181mm (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Length: 315mm (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 48mm (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.6mm (Spine width above the heel)
  • Total Weight: 218 grams
  • Core Steel: Super Blue Steel
  • Cladding Steel: Stainless
  • Hardness: 63-64 (HRC)
  • Handle Style: Various
  • Handle Material: Desert Ironwood and custom
  • Left or Right handed: Either (Double Bevel)

Product SKU: 10651

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.

Meet the maker

Takeshi Saji

A 3rd generation master blacksmith with more than 50 years experience and one of the founders of Takefu Knife Village, Takeshi Saji continues to craft some of the finest Japanese knives in the world and continues to work on improving his skills and technique to remain at the absolute top of his game.

Helping you find the perfect knives & accessories

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