Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm
Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm

Hatsukokoro Sumi Blue #2 Bunka 150mm

£120.00

Great value and ready to get to work, this is an excellent shorter daily use knife with a flat profile and thin tip ideal for intricate jobs made in a traditional Tosa style.
In stock, ready to ship

Product Code: HAT-0280

Knife & Range Specifications

Knife Measurements
  • Blade Edge Length: 155mm / 6.1" (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Knife Length: 300mm / 11.81" (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 41.8mm / 1.65" (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 3.9mm / 0.15" (Spine width above the heel) 1.8mm / 0.07" (Measured halfway along spine) 1.6mm / 0.06" (Measured 15mm from tip)
  • Total Weight: 144 grams / 5.08 oz

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 finishes.

Range Specifications
  • Core Steel: Aogami Blue #2
  • Cladding Steel: Soft Iron
  • Blade Finish: Kurouchi
  • Hardness: 62 (HRC)
  • Handle Style:
  • Handle Material: Single piece octagonal bubinga
  • Left or Right handed: Suitable for both (Double Bevel)

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

Hatsukokoro - Sumi Blue #2

Our in-depth range review

First Impressions


Hatsukokoro have partnered with a Tosa based blacksmith to create the affordable Sumi (and very similar Shikkoku) 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 & 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.

Our Verdict

Traditionally made knives at a great price point and with a widely tried and tested core steel make the Sumi 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 thinner spine and less taper the Hatsukokoro Shikkoku 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.

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