First Impressions
It's hard to avoid hyperbole when talking about high quality products like handmade Japanese knives because so many of them are exceptional pieces of craft and the skill required is so high.
You're going to have to indulge our excitement about this range though!
Quite simply, the sharpness out of the box is sensational and boast some of the best scores we've ever tested across any knife range.
Beauty
Not only are the knives exceptional in terms of raw performance, the style and finish is dark, moody and you can see why the range is named Inazuma (lightning) if you invoke images of a dark stormy sky the flash of light that reflects off the polished Super Blue core steel is beautiful.
In Hand
We paired this range with a classic octagonal walnut and black buffalo handle which is light and comfortable in the hand.
Across the range the Inazuma knives are as well balanced and light as you'd expect from the Master blacksmith who created them.
Durability
Super Blue steel is a popular choice among blacksmiths and knife owners for its durability and relative ease of maintenance and you should expect this knife to last a long time with careful use and maintenance.
Ease of Care
This is a fully reactive knife as the core of super blue steel is clad with a reactive soft iron so you can expect a patina to quickly develop across the entire blade as you use it.
We recommend caring for it following the our normal care instructions and storing it on a magnetic rack when not in use.
It would also be worth applying drop or two of camellia oil from time to time to help care for and protect it as the patina develops.
Our Verdict
Outstanding value for money. This is an exceptional knife in all respects and one of the highest performing knife collection we've seen so if you're looking for outright performance and sharpness paired with a stunning design then we'd say you've hit a sweet spot here.
The price is doubly impressive because this collection comes from a true master blacksmith but due to branding and other agreements between the blacksmith and their other partners we are not able to name him.
So while there's a mystery element here we're absolutely delighted to stock his knives and the more eagle eyed knife collector out there might recognise the style and design of this knife and for those who do, you'll see what a bargain this exceptional collection is.
