Premium VG10 Bunka Knife 18cm - Hammered Finish, Red Laminated Plywood Handle - Japanese Kitchen Knife for Professional Chefs & Home Cooking - Perfect for Slicing, Dicing & Chopping Vegetables, Meat & Fish

Zan shin（残心）- Kaz's original knife brand

"Zanshin" translates as “to keep one’s mind”. It is a mindset that we should retain our tension after completing a single action and be prepared for the next. For example, in a kendo match, even if you win, those who care Zanshin mindset do not show their joy, meaning that even if you defeat your opponent in front of you, he may still be attacking you again, or there may be a second opponent behind him. So, it is important to always remain focused and keep your mind calm.

In kitchen knives too, we chose this name in the hope that people will not be distracted when cooking, sharpening knives, or in any other situation, and that they will safely prepare delicious food and keep their knives sharp.

The VG10 Zanshin knives represent the pinnacle of culinary craftsmanship, meticulously fashioned by Sumikama Cutlery, a venerable entity situated in Seki, Japan, with a legacy tracing back to its foundation in 1916. Inheriting the esteemed tradition of swordsmithing that spans nearly eight centuries, Sumikama has seamlessly transitioned this rich heritage into the realm of kitchen cutlery, exemplified by their globally renowned "Kasumi series" of premium kitchen knives.

Introduction of the new Zanshin Sora series

 

Introducing our lightweight and thin blade designed to effortlessly glide through food ingredients, reducing friction for a seamless cutting experience.

The meticulous craftsmanship includes a large Kireha (edge line) and an intricately hammered pattern for an elegant touch. Compared to the Zan Shin Ao series, the Sora series boasts a thinner blade, enhancing sharpness while requiring gentle handling to prevent chipping. However, its notable advantage lies in easy restoration and resharpening using mid-grain whetstones.

Available in various sizes tailored to different culinary needs, our 16.5cm Bunka or Santoku knife is ideal for beginners, while the 15cm Bunka or 12cm petty knife serves as a versatile second option.

Crafted with a walnut handle featuring a double-sided chestnut shape, our design ensures comfort and functionality for both right and left-handed users.

 

Hammered finish and hazy sky pattern

The blade of the Zan Shin Sora series exhibits a striking contrast, featuring an image reminiscent of rocky terrain juxtaposed against a hazy sky, evoking a sense of mystique.

 

Blade: VG10 (stainless)

Sharpness　★★★★☆ (4/5)

Hardness/durability　★★★★☆ (4/5)

Edge retention  ★★★★☆ (4/5)

Ease of sharpening　★★★★☆ (4/5)

Rust resistance　★★★★★ (5/5)

Manufactured by Takefu Special Steel Co.,Ltd. Contains Carbon 1%, Chromium 15%, Molybdenum 1 %, Vanadium 0.2%, Cobalt 1.4%, Manganese 0.5%, Rockwell Hardness 58-60 HRC.

Quality Stainless steel that is recently introduced to the market, used for variety of industrial tools.

Because of cobalt added, it can be quenched in very high temperature so that it has superior hardness. Strong to wear, distort and corrode as well as good sharpness and edge retention.

Handle: Red laminated plywood with bolster (double-sided chestnut shape)

The red-laminated plywood handle offers extra resistance to water absorption as well as a silver bolster, effectively preventing water ingress. Its double-sided chestnut shape ensures versatility for users, accommodating both right and left-handed individuals with maximum comfort.

All the knives are pre-sharpened to the optimal result. They are ready for the first cut! 

 

Knife for a Good Cause - We donate $2 for every knife sold