Hand-forged in Echizen, Japan by Takumi Ikeda for the Anryu brand, this bunka has an Aogami #2 core from Hitachi Metals with stainless cladding. A bunka is a Japanese multipurpose knife with a reverse tanto tip, suited to push-cutting and detail work. Stainless cladding makes maintenance easier. Aogami #2 offers a solid balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening. It has excellent distal taper, thick at the handle for comfort, then thinning significantly from midway to the tip, not something you typically find at this price.
Hand-forged in Echizen, Japan by Takumi Ikeda for the Anryu brand
172mm (6.77") cutting edge, reverse tanto tip
Aogami #2 (Blue #2) carbon steel core from Hitachi Metals with stainless cladding
Distal taper from 5.6mm at handle to 1.5mm midway to 0.6mm near tip
Oval rosewood handle
For left- and right-handed users
Takumi Ikeda is an Echizen Traditional Craftsman operating at Takefu Knife Village and the fifth-generation successor of Anryu Hamono. He began his apprenticeship under Katsushige Anryu in 2007 and became the successor of Anryu Hamono in January 2021. As Anryu's nephew, he inherited the workshop’s leadership when his uncle had no sons to continue the family tradition. He forges using traditional methods and works with high-carbon steels, including Aogami #2, Aogami Super, and Shirogami #2. Before becoming successor, he was the primary blacksmith producing knives for the Anryu workshop.
Overall length: 321mm Blade length - heel to tip: 172mm (6.77") Blade height at the heel: 48.3mm Spine thickness: At the handle: 5.6mm At the heel: 3.4mm Midway: 1.5mm 1cm from the tip: 0.6mm Weight: 150g Edge/bevel: 50:50 Handle: Oval rosewood Hand Orientation: Ambidextrous Saya/Sheath: Not included
Notes:
Each knife is handcrafted, so no two are exactly alike. The photo shows a randomly selected piece from our stock. If you'd like to see the exact knife you'll receive, email us at info@zahocho.com.
Minor variations in surface finish and measurements are normal in Japanese knives.
Handle is fitted by the maker and shipped as-is. We don't offer handle swaps.
Shipping & Returns
• Worldwide shipping from Tokyo • Dispatches within 24-48 hours • Full tracking from dispatch to delivery • 30-day returns on unused items Details
Care Guide
• Use whetstones for sharpening • Use wooden or rubber cutting boards • Keep clean and dry to prevent rust • Avoid cutting bones or frozen foods • Hand wash only - no dishwasher View Complete Care Guide
Why is the blade length different from the displayed size? The size in the product title is a nominal reference used by knife makers. The actual blade can be slightly longer or shorter due to handcrafting and traditional sizing. Each product page lists the exact measured length.
When will out-of-stock items be restocked? We carry limited, rotating stock. Once something sells out, we don't necessarily reorder it right away. It could be months before that item comes back, if at all. We bring in new knives regularly, but they're not always the same ones. Our newsletter is the best way to stay updated on new arrivals.
What payment methods do you accept? Visa, Mastercard, Amex, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Shop Pay. No cash on delivery.
