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Hatsukokoro Shinkiro (unstamped) kurouchi damascus AS gyuto 240mm

Regular price ¥90,000 JPY
Regular price Sale price ¥90,000 JPY
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Ships from Tokyo, Japan  ·  Dispatched within 24–48 hours

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Add-on: magnolia saya. Details

Specifications

Handforged in Fukushima by Takahiro Nihei, this 240mm gyuto from the Shinkiro series by Hatsukokoro features an Aogami Super core clad in damascus. It is an unstamped variant with no Hatsukokoro kanji, made at the request of enthusiasts who prefer a plain blade face.

This Japanese chef's knife has a nice heft to it and cuts well. Midweight grind and thin behind the edge. The blade road has minimal low spots, making stone work more manageable for anyone wanting to do a kasumi finish later.

  • Hand-forged in Fukushima, Japan by Takahiro Nihei
  • Unstamped (no Hatsukokoro kanji)
  • 243mm (9.6") cutting edge, 52mm heel height
  • Aogami Super core with iron clad damascus
  • Balance point at the pinch grip area
  • Octagonal wenge handle with resin ferrule
  • For left- and right-handed users

Pricing reflects a recent increase from the maker (August 2026)

    Takahiro Nihei is a blacksmith based in Iitate, Fukushima, and the fourth generation of Yasuragi Kobo. He trained under Kazuomi Yamamoto at Yoshikane Hamono in Sanjo and opened his own workshop in 2019. He handles all work himself from forging to final sharpening. Nihei-san is currently working toward his swordsmith certification alongside his knife work.


    Details

    Brand: Hatsukokoro
    Series: Shinkiro
    Blacksmith: Takahiro Nihei
    Origin: Fukushima, Japan
    Knife Type: gyuto
    Finish: kurouchi damascus
    Core Steel: Aogami Super (Blue Super)
    Steel Type: carbon
    Cladding: iron clad damascus

    Blade & Handle Specs

    Overall Length: 398mm
    Blade Length - heel to tip: 243mm (9.6")
    Blade Height at Heel: 52mm
    Spine Thickness:
      At the handle: 4.6mm
      At the heel: 3.7mm
      Midway: 2.4mm
      1cm from the tip: 0.8mm
    Weight: 231g
    Balance Point: pinch grip area
    Handle: octagonal wenge with resin ferrule
    Hand Orientation: ambidextrous
    Saya/Sheath: none
    Box: included

    Notes:
    • The photo shows one of the knives from our current stock, so it may not be the exact one you'll receive. Each knife is handmade, so no two are exactly alike. If you'd like to see the actual knife, email us at info@zahocho.com.
    • Kurouchi finish varies from knife to knife. Fading, patchy spots, and light scratching are normal characteristics, not defects. If you prefer a clean & uniform finish, other finish types may suit you better.
    • 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

    Customer Support

    Email us at info@zahocho.com or fill out our contact form.

    FAQ

    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.

    View all FAQ →

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