Premium Yoshikazu Tanaka Blue #1 Gokujyo Hon Kasumi Gyuto Chef Knife 255mm - Japanese High Carbon Steel Blade for Professional Chefs & Cooking Enthusiasts - Perfect for Slicing, Dicing & Precision Cutting

Tokushu Yoshikazu Tanaka Blue #1 Gokujyo Hon Kasumi Gyuto 255 mm (No Handle)

Overview

Hand-forged by Sakai legend Yoshikazu Tanaka, this 255 mm Gyuto marries his renowned Gokujyo Hon Kasumi finish with an ultra-responsive Aogami #1 core. Tanaka-san uses pine-charcoal heat treatment and a tempering kiln—rare even in Sakai—to dial in edge retention around 63 HRC while retaining toughness. The soft-iron kasumi cladding (not damascus) reveals a classic misty contrast against the exposed core. Sold without a handle, the blade arrives balance-ready for your choice of a custom wa handle, which we are happy to install before shipping. Did we mention this is is 57mm tall at the heel? We are proud to present this special project to our customers! 

Common Questions

Q: Is this knife suitable for home cooks as well as professionals?
A: Absolutely. The mid-weight carbon core takes a screaming-sharp edge that stays keen through high-volume prep, yet it’s thin enough at the tip (0.75 mm, 1 cm back) for precise vegetable work—perfect for any kitchen looking to level up.

Q: How should I care for a non-stainless kasumi blade?
A: Wipe the knife dry immediately when not in your hand. For storage apply a light coat of camellia or food-safe mineral oil, and store it in a saya or blade guard. A quick pass on the strop keeps the edge fresh between full sharpening sessions.

Specifications

• Core Steel: Aogami #1 (Blue #1)
• Cladding Type: Soft iron, Hon Kasumi finish (non-stainless)
• Measured Blade Length: 246 mm
• Overall Length: 379 mm
• Blade Height at Heel: 57.75 mm
• Spine Thickness (Heel): 2.99 mm
• Spine Thickness (Mid): 2.23 mm
• Weight: ~165 g (blade only; varies slightly)
• Handle Material: None (blade only)
• Hardness (HRC): ~63