From the maker

Overview

The Yu Kurosaki Kokusen AS Petty 150mm is a nimble, high-performance Japanese utility knife made for cooks who want precision, edge retention and standout forged character in a practical everyday size. At 150mm, this petty gives you more reach than a smaller paring knife while remaining controlled for detail work, trimming, slicing fruit, preparing herbs, breaking down smaller proteins and quick board tasks where a gyuto may feel too large.

The Kokusen line pairs Aogami Super carbon steel with stainless cladding, providing excellent edge life while reducing some of the maintenance required by fully reactive carbon-steel blades. Yu Kurosaki’s hammered Kokusen finish gives the blade a bold, textured look and helps with food release during prep.

Choose between an octagonal rosewood wa handle with a black pakkawood ferrule or an octagonal ebony wa handle with a buffalo horn ferrule. Both options keep the knife light, balanced and comfortable in a pinch grip.

Because the exposed Aogami Super edge is reactive, wipe the knife dry during use, avoid soaking it and never put it in the dishwasher. A natural patina may form over time. For storage or humid environments, a thin coat of Tsubaki oil can help protect the carbon-steel edge.

Common Questions

Q: What is a 150mm petty knife best used for?

A: A 150mm petty knife is excellent for small-to-medium prep jobs such as slicing shallots, trimming proteins, cutting citrus, preparing garnishes, mincing garlic and working with herbs. It is longer than a paring knife but easier to control than a full-size chef knife.

Q: Is the Yu Kurosaki Kokusen AS Petty good for home cooks?

A: Yes. It is a premium utility knife with excellent sharpness and edge retention, especially useful when you want one smaller knife for a broad range of everyday prep.

Q: How should I maintain the edge?

A: Use a knife-friendly cutting board, wipe the blade dry after use and avoid hard materials such as bone, frozen food and glass boards. Regular stropping on the Tokushu Knife Premium XL Buffalo Strop can help keep the edge crisp between sharpenings.