The Blacksmith - Kei Kobayashi
Kei Kobayashi is a well renowned knife sharpener based in Seki City who, in recent years, has also trained as a blacksmith and now produces some of the most exquisite knives we've seen.
Kobayashi knives are finished to perfection and sharpened (as you would expect) to a staggeringly sharp edge. Like almost nothing else we've seen.
The Range - SG2 Migaki
These knives are absolute lasers. Thin, hard SG2 stainless steel kept simple to deliver the absolute best performance. These are our personal favourites and comes with superb red lacquered handles.
The Steel - SG2/R2 Stainless Steel
This range is made using SG2 stainless steel. SG2 (sometime called R2) is a premium steel which is harder than many other stainless steels. The hardness allows the knife to get sharper, stay sharper longer and out perform softer steels making it one the best performers around. The hardness does require a little more elbow grease when sharpening the knife though, but you will need to do it less often.
The Model - Bunka
Bunka knives are similar to a Santoku in blade proportions, but have a more angular tip, often referred to as a K tip, or Kiritsuke.
They make excellent all round knives as they are versatile due to their curved cutting edge and shorter blade length. They are an excellent alternative to the more common Gyuto, chef's knife shape if you prefer a shorter blade.
GET 33% OFF KNIFE CARE, SHARPENING AND ACCESSORIES WHEN YOU BUY THIS KNIFE
Saya and Blade Covers that fit this Knife: Our wooden Bunka knife Saya fits this knife. You can also use the 180mm plastic blade guard.
Specifications:
Knife Type: Bunka
Steel Type: R2/SG2 (Stain resistant steel)
Blade Hardness: HRC 62-63
Blade Type: Double edged blade
Blade Length: 170mm (6.7")
Blade Height: 40mm (1.6")
Blade Thickness: 2mm (0.1")
Handle Material: Red Lacquered
Handle Length: 124mm (4.9")
Weight: 133g (4.7 ounces)
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Please read our guidance pages below to help you make the right choice and make the most of the knives you choose or get in touch with us and we'll happily discuss and help you find the perfect knife for you.
How to choose a knife
Knife Types Explained
Steel Types Explained
Care Guidelines for all Knives
