Yoshihiro Hongasumi Blue Steel Yanagi Sushi Sashimi Japanese Knife Magnolia Handle
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High-Carbon Care
This item is made from high-carbon steel. It offers excellent sharpness but can rust or develop a patina if not kept dry and properly maintained.
- 63-64 HRC
- No
- Free Magnetic Oak Saya Included
Blade Hardness
HRC (Rockwell Hardness) measures how hard the blade's steel is. Kitchen knife steel typically falls in the high-50s to mid-60s on this scale. Harder steel is built to hold a fine edge over long use, while softer steel favors flexibility and easy resharpening. The right HRC depends on the steel and design, not a single higher-is-better number.
Stain Resistant
This steel is not stain resistant. High-carbon steel can rust or develop a patina if not kept dry and cared for, in exchange for the sharper edge it holds.
Saya Cover
This knife comes with its saya cover included at no additional cost, shaped to its exact blade for the same custom fit customers pay extra for on other knives.
Full Specifications
Blade
- Knife Type
- Yanagiba (Sashimi Knife)
- Primary Use
- Sashimi / Raw fish slicing
- Blade Metal
- Blue Steel #2
- Grade
- Hongasumi
- Construction
- Clad (San Mai)
- Blade Hardness
- 63-64 HRC
- Blade Edge Type
- Single Bevel
- Blade Finish
- Plain
- Stain Resistant
- No
Handle
- Handle Material
- Magnolia
- Handle Shape
- Octagonal
- Bolster Material
- Water Buffalo Horn (Color Varies)
- Tang Type
- Partial Tang
Product Details
Experience the artistry of our Yoshihiro Hongasumi Yanagi, expertly forged from High Carbon Blue Steel #2 with a hardness rating of 63-64 HRC. This traditional single-edged knife excels in edge retention and achieves a finer edge compared to its counterpart, the Kasumi Yanagi, crafted from White Steel #2. Designed specifically for slicing delicate fish for sushi and sashimi, the Yanagi's elegant, thin blade glides through ingredients in long, uninterrupted strokes, preserving their integrity and freshness. Perfect for intermediate chefs, this knife is 100% handcrafted in Japan and ready to use right out of the box—never mass-produced.
The Yanagi is an indispensable tool in the kitchen, representing one of the most essential traditional Japanese knives. Its precision and performance elevate even the simplest culinary tasks, making every slice a testament to its craftsmanship. Each Yoshihiro Hongasumi knife is crafted with extraordinary skill by our master artisans, emphasizing refined forging and polishing with meticulous attention to detail. The beautiful mist patterns on the blade, created through the forging of Blue Steel #2 with iron, showcase the artistry behind its production.
Complementing its exceptional blade, the Yanagi features a traditional handcrafted Magnolia wood handle, affixed with a Water Buffalo horn bolster (color may vary). It also comes with a protective wooden sheath, or "Saya," which is easy to clean and resistant to stains and odors. For optimal care, wash the knife with a mild cleanser and always keep it dry between uses. Applying Tsubaki Oil (included) before storage will help maintain the knife's excellent condition.
While traditional Japanese carbon steel knives are not stainless, they can provide years of enjoyment with proper care. Sharpening and honing should always be performed on premium quality Japanese water stones, which not only offer the best surface for maintenance but also preserve the integrity of the high-quality steel. Elevate your culinary experience with the beauty and functionality of our handcrafted Yoshihiro Hongasumi Yanagi.
Care & Origin
- Country of Origin
- Japan
- Care Instructions
- Hand wash only.
Dry immediately.
Avoid the dishwasher. - Sharpening Method
- Sharpen by hand using whetstones. Do not use honing rods.