Nigara Hamono AS Bunka

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Regular price £200.00
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Versatile, exceptionally sharp straight out of the box and with looks that will be the envy of anyone who sees you using it this bunka is a real high performance statement piece from Nigara Hamono.

This knife is also available as a blade only so you can choose a compatable new handle to suit. If you'd like us to fit it, please order blade and handle together and email us with your order number.

Note: Weight and sizes below are with handle fitted.

First Impressions

Very impressive sharpness right out of the box and to be honest - this is the normal expectation of all Nigara Hamono knives and like all their knives the AS range doesn't disappoint when it comes to cutting performance.

The grind down to the cutting edge is very thin and they simply glide through food.

Beauty

If you're looking for wow factor then we'll let the photos and product videos do the talking here!

It's a sensational looking knife blade with the matt grey shade of the kurouchi finish and the S shaped hammer finish tapering down to the wavy mirror finish of the core aogami steel. 

The traditional walnut wa handle version is subtle and classic or you can blow that out of the water with a unique stag horn handle topped with a wooden bolster and turquoise cap at the end of the handle it's as much a statement piece as it is a high performance working knife.

In Hand

For the traditional handled versions of the AS, it's a nice and light knife in hand and you'll find a familiar balance just around the Nigara logo on the blade of most of the knives in the range.

The shape and size of the stag horn handle version does look quite large compared to the proportion of the blade but it's actually remarkably comfortable when it's in your hand and the uneven shape and finishing marks along each one actually feel really nice when you hold it.

It's definitely heavier than a traditional wa handle and so push the balance point of the knife back a little but only as far as the heel of the blade so it's still nimble and very comfortable. The stag horn itself is also quite cool to the touch which is a rather nice bonus!

Durability

Aogami Super is a very popular and durable steel and used widely throughout the Japanese knife world so it's one that's easy to sharpen and retains an edge well so this is definitely a knife that's going to last when cared for.

Ease of Care

It's a reactive steel core so will develop a patina with use as you'd expect but it's easy to look after if you follow our normal care instructions and store properly when not in use.

Our Verdict

It's unusual to find knives of this outstanding quality and sharpness at this price point and the option of a classic wa handle or a custom stag horn one gives you a nice choice to make as to which one you're going to choose!

Nigara Hamono have been making knives and blades of the highest quality for more than 350 years and this range is another one that will no doubt prove incredibly popular and rightly so.

Product Quick View

Want to see a little more of the knife? Check out what the knife looks like in hand and up close.

Product details

  • Blade Length: 169mm (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Length: 309mm (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 48.3mm (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.1mm (Spine width above the heel)
  • Total Weight: 144 grams
  • Core Steel: Super Blue Steel
  • Cladding Steel: Stainless
  • Hardness: 62-63 (HRC)
  • Handle Style: Various
  • Handle Material: Walnut with black buffalo or custom stag horn and turquoise with wooden bolster
  • Left or Right handed: Either (Double Bevel)

Product SKU: NIG-043-##

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

The magnolia bunka saya or bunka (22x5cm) sized blade guard are good options to protect your blade when not in use if you are not storing it on a magnetic rack or block.

Saya & Guards Knife Racks & Storage Sharpening & Blade Care

Meet the maker

Nigara Hamono

A legendary name in sword and knife making stretching back 8 generations and 350 years. You simply don't get much more skill going into each blade.

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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