Takeshi Saji started his apprenticeship at the age of 14 with his uncle in his hometown of Takefu where it has been at the forefront of knife making for over 700 years because of its purity of the Iron steel made of such clear spring water in the area and the highest grade of pine charcoal. Since Saji-san has a unique talent for creating outstanding edges and his natural affinity to this art, he was awarded the accolade of ‘Traditional Craftsman’ and at the extremely tender age (in knife-making terms) of 38, the Ministry of Culture honoured him as a ‘Living Treasure’ of Japan – the youngest person ever to receive this high honour.
Saji San’s latest collection of knives are hand forged from a 3 layer (SG2 Core with soft Stainless cladding) Steel. As with every Saji knife these blades are meticulously forged, tempered, ground and finished to the highest level.
The advantage of the 3 layer blade over his 101 layer Damascus blades is that with only 3layers, the central core is thicker and so stays sharper far longer; whilst being harder to regrind, the ratio between edge endurance and sharpening effort is better.
The blades also have a Tsuchime finish. The hammered finish results in a surface that reduces the stickiness of the food being cut so makes easy cutting of oily (like salmon or mackerel), starchy (like potatoes) and fatty (like pork and lamb).
The knives are finished with mesmerising Quince Burl hardwood handle from a sustainable source.
The weight, balance, and understated aesthetic of these ‘Uber’ knives are sure to satisfy every need of any passionate cook.
Made by Takeshi Saji san
Fully handmade
SG2 Powder Steel
3 Layers Blade
Quince Burl hardwood handle
Hardness 64 HRC + /- 1
Made in Japan
The shape is basically a small Sujihiki or slicing knife. As the name suggests it is a multi-function knife used for the preparation of vegetables and precise cutting of meat and fish. The slim profile presents a smaller area to fatty, oily, and starchy foods where a wider blade would create a stronger vacuum and ‘stick’ more to the food.
Function – Multipurpose for preparing all food groups. A favourite knife of many home cooks who are uncomfortable with large blades.
Normal length – 150mm
Tip: This knife is also used for carving petite roasts, filleting and skinning fish as well as careful dissection of poultry without hitting bones. An extremely useful size for any kitchen.
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