Craftsman: Kanjo Tsukahara
Location: Seki city
Type: Petty / Utility Knife (Double Bevel)
Blade Material: HAP40 Clad Stainless Steel
Core: HAP40 (Powder High Speed Semi Stainless Steel)
Blade Length: approx 120 mm (4.7 ")
Total Length: approx 244 mm (9.6 ")
Weight: approx 75 g (2.6 oz)
Blade Width: approx 27 mm
Thickness of Spine: approx max 2 mm
Handle: Reinforce Laminated Wood
HRC: 65
Kanjo, located in Seki City with its 700-year knife-making heritage, produces kitchen knives using a variety of high-quality steels, including ZDP189, HAP40, SG2, White Steel, and Blue Steel. Notably, only a select few Japanese manufacturers offer knives made from ZDP189 and HAP40.
The blade profile features a 'Hamaguri-ba' shape, a Japanese term meaning 'clam shell edge.' This convex grind facilitates smooth cutting and provides exceptional strength.
Due to the intensive hand-sharpening process, particularly at the tip, slight haziness or scratches may be present. This is a normal characteristic and not a defect.
HAP40
HAP40 is a powder high-speed steel manufactured by Hitachi Metals, Ltd., renowned for its extreme hardness, superior wear resistance, and exceptional edge retention. HAP40 is considered to possess the highest edge retention among SG2 (R2), ZDP189, and Aogami Super steels. It is suggested that a HAP40 kitchen knife used domestically may require sharpening only every six months.
Note:
HAP40 is a semi-stainless steel with a lower chromium content. It is susceptible to rust when exposed to acids, salts, and moisture. To prevent corrosion, thoroughly dry and clean the knife after each use. If rust occurs, it can be removed by polishing with a scrubbing pad or by using a radish slice with a cleanser.
These knives are handcrafted, and minor scratches or dents may be present. Most Japanese knives feature thin blades designed for precision. To prevent damage, avoid cutting frozen foods or bones and refrain from applying excessive force or twisting the blade, as this can result in chipping or breakage.
* Effective March 11, 2016, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) increased the de minimis value for imported goods from $200 to $800. This means that shipments valued at $800 or less, imported by one person on a single day, are generally eligible for duty-free and tax-free entry. The same processes and restrictions apply as before the increase.
