The name Takeshi Saji is synonymous with Takefu Knife Village. He was one of the founding members of this kitchen knife creating focused village, along with other knife legends such as the now retired Katsushige Anryu and the late Masami Asai.

Saji-san is known for his Damascus patterns, specifically his Rainbow Damascus. Yet here's a pattern that may be more to your taste if you prefer monochromatic tones. The gorgeous Diamond Damascus line demonstrates once again that this blacksmith can not only create tantalizing patterns, but use a variety of high quality steels to do so. This line uses the popular high speed powdered steel known as SG2, or R2. Stainless, comparable sharpness to white steel and fairly easy to sharpen.

Think of a bunka, like a flatter bellied santoku with a k-tip (reverse tanto). Typically available in all the same sizes as a santoku, the main difference comes from the pointed tip which is useful for precision cuts like scouring an onion or garlic and the flatter belly which suits push/pull cutting over rock chopping. At 165mm, even if a new shape to you, it isn't a length that will feel uncomfortable in your hand.

No handle, no problem. Choose one of of our many handmade gorgeous custom handles here to pair with your Saji bunka.

Knifesmith: Takeshi Saji Line: Diamond Damascus Steel: SG2 (R2) Finish: Stainless Damascus

Style: Bunka Blade Length: 165mm Spine: 3mm at heel Blade Height: 50mm at heel Weight: 104g

Handle: No handle