Name: Hatsukokoro Shikkoku Blue #2 Bunka
Brand: Hatsukokoro
SKU: HAT-0126
Price: 95.0 GBP
Availability: OutOfStock

First Impressions

Hatsukokoro have partnered with a Tosa based blacksmith to create the affordable Shikkoku (and very similar Sumi) range to offer a quality carbon steel knife at a very competitive price point.

Beauty

If you're seeking traditional looks, the kurouchi finished soft iron cladding over a blue #2 core that will develop a patina over time is a classic and ages nicely with use.

In Hand

The balance point for the chef knives tends to be just around the blade heel which works well for use in a pinch grip and they're nimble and comfortable in hand.

Durability

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

Ease of Care

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.

Our Verdict

Traditionally made knives at a great price point and with a widely tried and tested core steel make the Shikkoku an easy pick if you want to try a reactive carbon steel knife or add another knife to your rotation without breaking the bank.

With a relatively flat edge profile, they perform well out of the box and for those who want to extract a little extra, they are easy to thin a little more should you wish.

If you have a preference for a slightly thicker spine and more taper the Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 range is also available and while made for Hatsukokoro by a different blacksmith, the traditional Tosa style is very evident and offers a good alternative option.

Product details

Blade Length: 170mm (Measurement of the cutting edge)
Total Length: 314mm (Blade tip to handle end)
Blade Height: 47.4mm (Heel to spine)
Blade Thickness: 3.32mm (Spine width above the heel) 2.47mm (Measured halfway along spine) 1.60mm (Measured 15mm from tip)
Total Weight: 162 grams
Core Steel: Blue Steel #2
Care Tip – Reactive Carbon Steel

The core (and on some ranges, the cladding steel too) of this knife is made using a carbon steel which can react with moisture and acids in your food and so is not stainless or rust-proof.

Read our carbon steel care guide

View all carbon steel knives

View all non-reactive knives

RECOMMENDED Carbon steel care kit
Cladding Steel: Soft Iron
Hardness: 62 (HRC)
Handle Style: Japanese
Handle Material: Single piece octagonal bubinga
Left or Right handed: Either (Double Bevel)

Product SKU: HAT-0126

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.

Protection & care for this knife

We recommend the magnolia bunka saya or a bunka size blade guard for this knife.

Saya & Guards Knife Racks & Storage Sharpening & Blade Care

Meet the maker

Hatsukokoro

Hatsukokoro have partnered with a Tosa based blacksmith to create the Shikkoku range in a classic Tosa style and profile.

Hatsukokoro Shikkoku Blue #2 Bunka