Overview

Forged in Echizen, Fukui, Japan by Yoshimi Kato, this 240mm-class gyuto pairs an Aogami Super (Blue Super) carbon-steel core with stainless san-mai cladding. Its kurouchi Kaku-Tsuchime finish combines a dark forged surface with a distinctive square-hammered texture, while the octagonal burnt chestnut wa handle keeps the knife light and responsive in hand.

The pictured knife measures 242mm along the cutting edge, 52mm tall at the heel, and 180g overall. That gives it the reach for long draw cuts and larger prep while preserving the agility expected from an Echizen gyuto.

Why Tokushu Knife Chose This Knife

The measured taper is the story: 3.4mm at the heel, 2.05mm at mid-blade, and 0.44mm near the tip. The heel has enough authority for produce and general board work, while the fine tip is well suited to detail cuts, herbs, and boneless proteins. The 52mm heel height also provides comfortable knuckle clearance. Curated. Not Collected.

Common Questions

Is a 240mm gyuto practical for home use? Yes, especially for cooks with a medium or large cutting board. The extra length is useful for cabbage, squash, proteins, and batch prep, and this knife's 180g weight keeps it from feeling cumbersome.

Does Aogami Super require special care? The stainless cladding helps protect most of the blade, but the exposed carbon-steel core at the edge remains reactive. Hand wash and dry the knife immediately after use. A patina is normal; rust is not.

Care

Do not place this knife in a dishwasher or leave it soaking. Avoid bones, frozen food, twisting through hard ingredients, and lateral scraping. Use a wood or quality synthetic cutting board. For longer storage, apply a light coat of Tsubaki oil to the exposed carbon edge, and oil or wax the burnt chestnut handle as needed.

Specifications

Blacksmith: Yoshimi Kato

Region: Echizen, Fukui, Japan

Knife Type: Gyuto

Core Steel: Aogami Super (Blue Super) carbon steel

Cladding: Stainless steel, san-mai construction

Finish: Kurouchi Kaku-Tsuchime (square hammered)

Edge: Double bevel

Measured Blade Length: 242mm / 9.5 in.

Measured Overall Length: 400.5mm / 15.8 in.

Measured Blade Height: 52mm at heel

Measured Spine Thickness: 3.4mm heel / 2.05mm mid / 0.44mm near tip

Measured Weight: 180g / 6.3 oz.

Handle: Octagonal burnt chestnut wa handle

Country of Origin: Japan

Measurements were taken from the pictured knife. Because these knives are handmade, individual examples may vary slightly.