Our in-depth range review

First Impressions

An excellent range of mid-weight knives featuring a slight hollow grind and thick heel that tapers quickly to a consistent spine and thin tip for intricate work.

Beauty

The matte grey nashiji cladding finish is understated much like the very subtle damascus patterns running down to the polished Blue #2 core.

This knife will develop a fantastic patina on that exposed core steel over time! 

In Hand

The unusually thick forged heel is very comfortable when holding the knife in a pinch grip and has a nice secure feel to it while also making the Ryusui a solid mid-weight knife despite the very thin edge. 

Durability

The Blue #2 core has been treated to around 62HRC which offers a good balance between durability, edge retention and relatively easy sharpening and so is an ideal daily use knife.

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

This is a reactive knife, the core steel develops a patina and the soft iron cladding can develop to rusting if left undried.

We would certainly recommend following our carbon steel care tips and we'd suggest including a carbon steel care kit for longer term care and maintenance.

Meet the maker

Hatsukokoro

Based in Seki city, Hatsukoroko are a brand who collaborate with wide range of master blacksmiths, workshops and factories. Their knives and accessories range from entirely hand forged pieces from master blacksmiths through to products from workshops who make use of modern machinery and techniques to forge knives with extreme precision.

Thanks to their constant innovation and passion for development Hatsukokoro's knives and accessories have quickly become a favourite of our customers.

View all Hatsukokoro products