Overview

The Yu Kurosaki Kokusen AS Nakiri 165mm is a tall, agile Japanese vegetable knife forged in Echizen, Japan. Its broad rectangular profile, generous knuckle clearance and flatter edge excel at controlled push cuts, chopping herbs and cleanly slicing produce.

The blade combines an Aogami Super (Blue Super) carbon-steel core with stainless cladding and Yu Kurosaki’s distinctive Kokusen hammered finish. The hard core takes a keen, long-lasting edge, while the thin grind moves efficiently through vegetables.

Choose the Blade Only option for a finished blade with an exposed tang ready for a compatible custom wa handle, or select the Amboyna Burl / Horn Handle option for a complete knife fitted with a handmade natural-material handle.

Natural-material variation: every Amboyna burl and horn handle is handmade. Grain, figure, color and horn tone will vary, so each finished knife has a unique appearance. Product photos are representative of the style and materials rather than the exact handle you will receive.

Common Questions

What is included with each option?

The Blade Only option includes the finished blade and exposed tang without a handle. The Amboyna Burl / Horn Handle option arrives as a complete knife with a handmade wa handle installed.

Why is it called a 165mm Nakiri if the measured edge is 154mm?

165mm is the maker’s nominal size designation. The photographed handled sample measures 154mm along the cutting edge; small dimensional differences are normal with handmade Japanese knives.

Is the knife fully stainless?

No. The cladding is stainless, but the exposed Aogami Super core at the cutting edge is reactive carbon steel. It will develop a natural patina and should be kept clean and dry.

How should I maintain the edge?

Use quality whetstones as needed and a Tokushu leather strop for routine touch-ups. Always cut on a knife-friendly wood or synthetic board, such as a Hasegawa Pro cutting board, and avoid glass, stone and bamboo cutting surfaces.

Specifications

Brand / Blacksmith: Yu Kurosaki

Series: Kokusen

Knife Type: Nakiri

Core Steel: Aogami Super / Blue Super carbon steel

Cladding: Stainless steel with hammered tsuchime finish

Nominal Size: 165mm

Measured Cutting Edge: 154mm

Measured Heel Height: 53mm

Measured Spine Thickness: 1.7mm at heel, mid-blade and tip

Measured Overall Length: 307mm with Amboyna burl / horn handle

Measured Weight: 153g with Amboyna burl / horn handle

Handle Options: Blade only, or handmade Amboyna burl with natural horn

Hardness: Approximately 64 HRC

Bevel: Double bevel

Country of Origin: Japan

Measurements were taken from the photographed handled sample. Handmade knives and natural handles may vary slightly.

Care

Hand wash only and wipe dry promptly during use. Never place the knife in a dishwasher, and avoid bones, frozen foods and twisting cuts. For longer storage, apply a light coat of pure Tsubaki knife oil to the exposed carbon-steel edge.