Hitohira Tanaka Mosuke Blue #1 Yanagiba 270mm Ebony Handle (Saya)

Tanaka Uchihamono is one of Sakai’s leading and most renowned forgeries, producing high quality single- and double bevel knives for over decades. Internationally famed for his Blue #1 because of it’s excellent edge retention and sharpening ease. Tanaka Uchihamono’s methods are very traditional: using only carbon steel, relying only on eyesight to determine steel temperatures, using pine charcoal in the forge and straw ash for annealing and normalizing cycles ect. It is in these techniques the Tanaka forgery show incredible skill and mastery of temperatures, steel and knowledge that creates their celebrated quality. Tanaka forged knives paired with some of Sakai’s best sharpeners and the Hitohira touch make these some of the finest blades we see. In the west Tanaka gyutos are most desired and sought after while this workshop has been making some of Japan’s highest single bevel knives for many years.

The traditional Japanese slicer. The king of knives and ofter referred to as ’Sushi knife’ it is used for slicing boneless protein. More specific and less versatile compared to the Sujihiki, the performance of the properly sharpened Yanagiba will yield much higher quality results due to their geometry and sharpness. Characteristics in steel are pronounced in single bevel knives and different sharpeners make for much variety, please contact us directly if you need help in finding the right knife. 

This is a carbon steel knife. Carbon steel is a non-stainless steel that lacks sufficient chromium and/or nickel to protect it from oxidation. As a result, it reacts to moisture and oxygen. While this may sound like a downside, it’s actually a key feature. Carbon steel forms a unique patina over time, is easy to sharpen, and offers excellent edge retention.

Caring for a carbon steel knife is straightforward and similar to other knives. Store it clean and dry, avoid using the dishwasher, and never leave it to air-dry. Also, steer clear of cutting extremely hard items like frozen food or bones. During use, it’s important to keep the knife dry—wiping it down with a cloth or towel is usually enough. If a carbon steel knife is not properly maintained, it can rust. While rust can be removed, it's best to prevent it from occurring.

Keep in mind that there are many types of carbon steel, just as there are with stainless steels, each with its own properties. Each should be evaluated on an individual basis.

Extra: There is no definitive "right or wrong" between carbon and stainless steel knives, but carbon steel is often considered superior for traditional knife-making methods. As a result, carbon steel knives generally offer better edge retention, sharpening ability, and overall performance compared to others in the same price range.