Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku
Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku

Shigeki Tanaka Blue #2 Damascus Santoku

£195.00

Forged in the workshop of Shigeki Tanaka, the blue #2 is a superb knife at an incredible price point for those seeking an every day versatile chef knife.

Currently out of stock

Product Code: SHIG-004

Knife & Range Specifications

Knife Measurements
  • Blade Edge Length: 168mm / 6.61" (Measurement of the cutting edge)
  • Total Knife Length: 308mm / 12.13" (Blade tip to handle end)
  • Blade Height: 47.2mm / 1.86" (Heel to spine)
  • Blade Thickness: 2.9mm / 0.11" (Spine width above the heel)
  • Total Weight: 104 grams / 3.67 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: Stainless
  • Blade Finish: Damascus
  • Hardness: 62-63 (HRC)
  • Handle Style:
  • 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.

Shigeki Tanaka - Blue #2

Our in-depth range review

First Impressions


The relatively tall profile and smooth tapering create a good edge from the start and the knife is easy to hold and well balanced. There's a lot to like and enjoy when using this and you can feel the experience and skill that's gone into the making of it.

Beauty

With two finishes in the Blue #2 range - the "migaki" which is a polished finish that isn't quite as highly polished as a mirror finish and the "nashiji" which is essentially a kurouchi finish but much smoother you have some nice options and contrast. Depending on your preference the finishes are both well done and smooth in hand. 

In Hand

Tanaka-san's knives in this range tend to be a thicker, workhorse profile and so would suit someone seeking a heavier feeling knife in hand.

Durability


Blue #2 is widely used and popular among many blacksmiths because it is easy to sharpen and retains an edge well so when paired with a stainless cladding the knife will last well and be something you'll be reaching for time and again. 

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips


As the core steel that forms the cutting edge is reactive, it will develop a beautiful patina over time. For long term care, we recommend a carbon steel care kit that has all the tools required to keep your knife in top condition.

Our Verdict


Shigeki Tanaka has made this range to sit perfectly at a price point that allows for the use of a popular and robust steel that takes and holds an edge well and performs excellently without being too costly so it's a perfect range to consider as a first knife or an addition to an existing collection. 

Meet the maker

Shigeki Tanaka

Shigeki Tanaka is a fourth-generation blacksmith based in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, an area with a proud history of metalworking and blade production. His family began forging traditional farming tools during the Meiji era, and Shigeki has continued that legacy with a focus on producing high-quality kitchen knives that reflect both heritage and modern craftsmanship.

After training at Takefu Knife Village in Fukui, Tanaka returned to his hometown to develop his own style of knife making. His blades are known for their balance, performance and striking finishes, often featuring elegant damascus patterns or mirror-polished surfaces. Each knife showcases his deep understanding of steel and heat treatment, honed through years of experience at the forge.

Working with steels such as Blue #2, Ginsan and SG2, Tanaka crafts knives that combine traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary precision. His workshop remains small and hands-on, producing blades admired by chefs and collectors around the world.

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