Overview

Takeshi Saji Aogami #2 Rainbow Damascus 210mm Gyuto (Rosewood Octagonal Handle) — a signature piece from one of the founders of Takefu Knife Village. Saji-san’s famous Rainbow Damascus layers stainless steel with copper and brass for shimmering contrast over a keen Blue #2 core. The 210mm gyuto is the do-everything Japanese chef’s knife: nimble tip work, comfortable push cuts, and rock-chop friendly belly — all balanced by a lightweight wa (octagonal) rosewood handle that brings the balance right to a pinch grip. Crafted in Echizen, Fukui, this is functional art built to be used daily.

The Blue #2 (Aogami #2) core is heat-treated to ~62–63 HRC for outstanding edge life while still being a pleasure to sharpen. The stainless/copper/brass cladding helps with day-to-day care; simply wash, dry, and apply a thin coat of tsubaki (camellia) oil as needed. If you ever want extra pop in the pattern, some owners experiment with a coffee patina — not required, but it can deepen contrast.

Common Questions

Q: Is the Rainbow Damascus cladding stainless?

A: The outer layers are stainless with added copper/brass for the rainbow effect; the exposed core at the edge is carbon steel (Blue #2). Wipe dry after use to prevent patina/rust on the edge.

Q: Is this 210mm gyuto good for home cooks?

A: Absolutely. 210mm is the most versatile length — long enough for proteins and melons, compact enough for small boards. The octagonal wa handle fits a wide range of hand sizes comfortably.

Q: How do I maintain peak sharpness?

A: Use a soft board such as the Hasegawa Pro, touch up on our Tokushu leather strop, and schedule a tune-up with our professional sharpening service when needed.

Q: What’s the grind and hand-orientation?

A: Even 50/50 double bevel; suitable for both right- and left-handed users.

Specifications

Brand / Blacksmith: Saji Hamono / Takeshi Saji

Core Steel: Aogami #2 (Blue #2) carbon steel

Cladding Type: Hammered Rainbow Damascus (stainless with copper & brass)

Blade Length (Nominal): 210 mm

Edge Length (Measured): ~221 mm (typical)

Blade Height: ~50–51 mm (typical)

Spine Thickness (Heel): ~2.3–2.6 mm

Spine Thickness (Mid): ~1.9–2.0 mm

Overall Length: ~350–363 mm (varies by piece)

Weight: ~170–179 g (typical ~172 g)

Handle Material: Rosewood octagonal (wa), often with buffalo horn ferrule

Grind: 50/50 double bevel

Hardness (HRC): ~62–63

Origin: Echizen (Takefu Knife Village), Fukui, Japan

Notes on measurements: Handmade blades vary slightly.