This Kisuke Manaka gyuto is a versatile all-purpose kitchen knife designed for slicing, chopping, and detailed prep work. With an Aogami #2 core in a honwarikomi construction and a tsuchime kurouchi finish, it offers a balanced, moderate weight that feels steady without being heavy. The proportions give it a grounded cutting feel while still remaining agile, making it suitable for cooks who prefer a knife with presence but not excess heft.
Manaka Hamono, founded in 1872 in Saitama, carries a legacy of five generations of blacksmithing tradition. Kisuke Manaka, the current fifth-generation craftsman, is largely self-taught—developing his skills through traditional tools, a small forge, and extensive study. Unlike many makers, he forge-welds his own steel rather than relying on pre-laminated materials, a demanding technique that allows full control over quality. His workshop handles every stage in-house, from forging to final finishing, reflecting a philosophy shaped in part by the influence of his mentor, Tsukasa Hinoura.
Details
Brand / Maker: Kisuke Manaka
Location: Saitama, Japan
Knife type: gyuto
Finish: tsuchime kurouchi
Construction: honwarikomi (iron clad)
Steel type: carbon steel
Core steel: Aogami #2
HRC: 63
Blade and Handle Specs
Total length: 375mm
Blade length - heel to tip: 217mm
Blade height at heel: 48.3mm
Spine thickness:
at the handle: 4.6mm
at the heel: 3.4mm
midway: 2.0mm
1cm from the tip: 1.3mm
Weight: 171g
Edge/bevel: 50:50
Handle: octagonal walnut with black pakkawood ferrule
Hand orientation: ambidextrous
Saya/ sheath: not included
Notes:
a. For the care and maintenance of Japanese knives, such as this Kisuke Manaka Aogami #2 gyuto, please refer to our care guide below. b. Slight variations in measurements and surface finish are typical in hand-forged Japanese knives. c. Minor cosmetic variations—such as light surface marks or fine scuffs—are common in handcrafted blades.
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.
