Overview

The Takeshi Saji STRIX Tsuchime Santoku 180mm brings a compact, versatile blade to your custom knife build. Made in Echizen, Japan, it combines SPG STRIX stainless powder steel with stainless cladding, a polished hammered finish and Saji's engraved signature. This listing is for the blade only. A handle is not included and must be fitted before use.

Its broad blade and gently curved edge suit slicing vegetables, chopping herbs and preparing boneless meat or fish. The rounded santoku tip keeps the profile compact, making it a practical everyday choice for home kitchens and smaller prep spaces. The 180mm designation is nominal; published cutting-edge measurements for this model are approximately 165–166mm.

SPG STRIX, also known as SG-STRIX, is a stainless powder steel developed by Takefu Special Steel. It was designed to combine high hardness with easier whetstone sharpening than conventional high-hardness powder steels. Here, the bright tsuchime texture above the cutting bevel gives the blade its distinctive appearance without the maintenance demands of a carbon-steel core.

Common Questions

Does this santoku include a handle?

No. It is supplied blade only for a custom wa-handle build. Choose a handle separately and confirm fitting with Tokushu Knife before use. Free installation is available for eligible blade-and-handle purchases; contact us to confirm your combination.

Which handles should I consider?

Medium wa handles are a useful starting point for this size. Consider our Medium Shattered Carbon Wa Handle, Medium Shattered Carbon Gold Wa Handle, or Medium Cypress & Horn Wa Handle. Final compatibility depends on the tang and handle opening; professional fitting is recommended.

How do I care for a STRIX santoku?

Hand wash and dry promptly. Use a knife-friendly cutting board and avoid bones, frozen food, twisting or prying. Stainless steel resists corrosion but should not be left wet or soaked. Maintain the edge with whetstones and, when appropriate, light passes on a Tokushu Knife leather strop.

Specifications

Blacksmith: Takeshi Saji

Origin: Echizen, Fukui, Japan

Knife Type: Santoku

Core Steel: SPG STRIX / SG-STRIX stainless powder steel

Cladding: Stainless steel, san-mai construction

Finish: Polished tsuchime (hammered)

Blade Length: 180mm nominal; approximately 165–166mm cutting edge

Blade Height: Approximately 48–49mm

Spine Thickness (Heel): Approximately 2.4mm

Hardness: Approximately 64–65 HRC

Edge: Double bevel

Handle: Not included; wa handle requires fitting

Dimensions are published model references, not measurements of each stocked blade. Handmade knives vary slightly.