Tadafusa Western "Ookami" Nashiji Santoku 180mm

180mm santoku with a western walnut handle, 153 grams. If you like the balance and grip of a European knife but want Japanese steel and a much thinner blade behind the edge, this is the one to take. 48mm tall at the heel, so there is good knuckle room.

Nashiji means "pear skin", that is the grey textured finish on the blade. Inside is a core of Blue #2 carbon steel, clad in stainless. Blue #2 is my favourite steel to work on natural stones: it takes a very fine edge and it comes back fast.

Only the thin edge line is carbon, the rest of the blade is stainless. The edge will slowly take a patina, which is normal and protects it. Wipe it dry after use and it will serve you many years.

All knives JNS carry are handmade, one by one. Size and thickness can vary a little, and small marks in the finish can happen. This is normal for a handmade knife.