Yoshihiro Kurouchi Black-Forged Blue Steel Stainless Clad Nakiri Japanese Vegetable Knife (Ebony Handle)

The Yoshihiro Kurouchi Stainless Clad Knife represents a remarkable fusion of traditional Japanese forging techniques and modern metallurgy. While traditional Kurouchi knives are crafted from highly reactive carbon steel, this exceptional knife features a Kurouchi finish on stainless cladding—a rare and difficult innovation in knife making. The Stainless Kurouchi Cladding showcases intricate Japanese craftsmanship, providing the rustic aesthetics of a Kurouchi blade without the high maintenance typically associated with high-carbon steel.

Kurouchi, which translates to "Black-Forged," offers a characteristic unpolished rustic aesthetic. Our knife is clad in two layers of full Kurouchi stainless steel, delivering both durability and protection while maintaining a sharp cutting edge. With a hardness rating of 62-63 on the Rockwell scale, the inner core made of Blue Steel #2 is prized for its exceptional edge retention, providing an extremely sharp blade that maintains its sharpness over extended periods.

The stainless cladding allows the knife to be more forgiving to moisture exposure while ensuring that superior edge retention and sharpness remain intact. Complimented with a handcrafted octagonal ebony handle, this knife is comfortable for both left and right-handed users. It also includes a lacquered magnolia wood saya cover for easy and safe storage. From dicing and slicing fresh produce from a farmer's market to carving a roast chicken straight from the oven, even the simplest culinary tasks are elevated with a handcrafted knife that is as beautiful as it is functional.

While the majority of the blade is stainless steel, the exposed blue steel edge can potentially rust if not properly maintained. It is recommended for chefs experienced in knife care to prevent rust through regular drying and oiling after use.