Kisuke tsuchime kurouchi shirogami #2 195mm gyuto

Specifications

The Kisuke tsuchime kurouchi Shirogami #2 195mm gyuto is a compact, versatile all-purpose kitchen knife suited for slicing, chopping, and everyday prep work. With a Shirogami #2 core in a honwarikomi construction and stainless cladding, it offers a balanced, moderate weight at 179g—steady enough for controlled cuts while remaining agile in hand. The tsuchime kurouchi finish provides rustic character and practical food-release benefits, making this gyuto a reliable choice for cooks who appreciate traditional Japanese craftsmanship in a manageable mid-size blade.

Manaka Hamono, established in 1872 in Saitama, Japan, represents five generations of blacksmithing tradition. Kisuke Manaka, the current fifth-generation craftsman, developed his skills through self-directed study using traditional tools, a small forge, and knife-making literature. 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 maintains complete in-house production, overseeing every stage from initial forging through final finishing. Manaka-san acknowledges Tsukasa Hinoura as his mentor, drawing inspiration from Hinoura’s refined approach to knife-making. This foundation in traditional methods, combined with meticulous attention to detail, defines Manaka-san’s work.

Details

• Brand / Maker: Kisuke Manaka
• Location: Saitama, Japan
• Knife type: gyuto
• Finish: tsuchime kurouchi
• Construction: honwarikomi (stainless clad)
• Steel category: carbon steel
• Core steel: Shirogami #2 (White #2)
• HRC: 63

Blade and Handle Specs

• Total length: 340mm
• Blade length - heel to tip: 195mm
• Blade height at heel: 49.1mm
• Spine thickness:
  • at the handle: 4.8mm
  • at the heel: 3.0mm
  • midway: 2.1mm
  • 1cm from the tip: 1.9mm
• Weight: 179g
• Edge/bevel: 50:50
• Handle: magnolia (oval)
• Ferrule: red pakkawood
• Hand orientation: ambidextrous
• Saya/ sheath: not included

Notes:

a. For the care and maintenance of Japanese knives, such as this Kisuke Manaka Shirogami #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.