Overview

The Hatsukokoro Satoshi Nakagawa × Morihiro Blue #1 Damascus Gyuto 240mm brings together two highly respected Sakai craftsmen: master blacksmith Satoshi Nakagawa and the sharpening expertise of Morihiro Hamono. Its Aogami #1 carbon-steel core is wrapped in reactive iron Damascus cladding, combining a crisp, keen edge with flowing layered character across the blade.

This is the standard-profile 240mm gyuto rather than the separate tall model. The versatile gyuto shape is suited to vegetables, proteins, herbs, and general prep, while the longer nominal 240mm format provides additional board coverage and slicing length.

One-of-one exact-photo knife: This knife is fitted with the individual Prisma custom wa handle shown in every product photograph. Natural and handmade visual details are unique. The buyer receives the exact knife pictured, and only one is available.

Performance and Craftsmanship

Blue #1 is valued for its fine grain, strong edge retention, and precise sharpening response. Nakagawa’s heat treatment is paired with Morihiro’s refined double-bevel geometry for confident food release, controlled cuts, and a smooth feel through ingredients. The Damascus cladding is intentionally subtle and reveals additional depth as the viewing angle and light change.

Common Questions

Q: Who made this Nakagawa Blue #1 Damascus gyuto?

A: Satoshi Nakagawa forged the blade in Sakai, Japan, and Morihiro Hamono performed the sharpening and grinding.

Q: Is this the tall 240mm model?

A: No. This listing is for the standard-profile Nakagawa Blue #1 Damascus 240mm gyuto shown in the photographs.

Q: Is Blue #1 Damascus stainless?

A: No. Both the Blue #1 core and iron Damascus cladding are reactive. A natural patina will develop with use; wash by hand and dry the knife immediately.

Q: Is the photographed handle the one I will receive?

A: Yes. This is a one-of-one Prisma-handled knife, and the exact photographed knife ships to the buyer.

Care and Maintenance

Never place this knife in a dishwasher or leave it wet. Avoid bones, frozen food, and twisting cuts. For longer storage, protect the reactive blade with a light coat of tsubaki oil. Maintain the edge between sharpenings with a Tokushu leather strop, or use our professional sharpening service. A knife-friendly surface such as a Hasegawa Pro cutting board will help protect the fine edge.

Specifications

Brand: Hatsukokoro

Blacksmith: Satoshi Nakagawa

Sharpener: Morihiro Hamono

Origin: Sakai, Japan

Knife Type: Gyuto

Nominal Blade Size: 240mm

Profile: Standard-profile gyuto; not the tall model

Core Steel: Aogami (Blue) #1 carbon steel

Cladding: Reactive iron Damascus

Construction: Hammer-forged san mai

Hardness: Approximately 63–64 HRC

Edge: Double bevel, approximately 50/50

Handle: One-of-one Prisma custom wa handle shown

Availability: One exact-photo knife

Care: Fully reactive; hand wash and dry immediately

Because this is a handmade knife with a custom handle, dimensions and weight can vary. Unverified individual measurements are intentionally not stated.