Nakiri 160mm Kitaeji Damascus Clad Carbon Steel

A Nakiri 160mm Kitaeji Damascus Clad Carbon Steel knife from Shigefusa is a testament to the art and precision of Japanese knifemaking. This knife is crafted by Izuka-san, one of the most respected knifemakers in Sanjo, Niigata, Japan. Esteemed chefs like Masashi Yamamoto and knife makers like Bob Kramer have lauded Izuka-san for his exceptional skills, making Shigefusa knives some of the most coveted in the world​.

Izuka-san's training under masters like Kosuke Iwasaki and Nagashima-san has equipped him with a deep understanding of steel and knifemaking techniques. This extensive background allows him to create knives that are not only functional but also works of art. The Kitaeji series features a core of high-carbon steel, providing outstanding sharpness and durability. The blade is meticulously clad in multiple layers of hand-forged Damascus steel, known for its beautiful, wavy patterns and added resilience​.

The knife is distinguished by its superior craftsmanship and unique construction methods. Izuka-san forges his own Damascus steel, called Kitaeji, from Swedish carbon steel, which he prefers for its similarity to traditional tamahagane. Additionally, he uses a sen, a small blade with handles on either side, to precisely shave nanometres of steel, ensuring unparalleled sharpness and precision. Due to the meticulous and time-consuming process involved, acquiring a Shigefusa knife can take up to five years, but the result is a truly exceptional tool that is well worth the wait​.

Condition: New, never sharpened