Hitohira Togashi White #1 Stainless Clad Kasumi Utility 165mm Ebony Handle

The Togashi Kasumi series belong in the high-end assortment we carry at Karasu. Similar to the Migaki series these are made with only Blue #1 and White #1 steel only with a difference in the geometry. Kenya Togashi is the sharpener of both lines but the Kasumi series is ground with a convex grind. The bevels are slightly rounded and these knives do not have a visible shinogi line. Characterized by their incredibly slick and clean aesthetics with smooth and solid performance. By Hitohira design, with high level fit and finish like polished heel and spine and amazing handle quality. To us both the Kasumi and Migaki series by Togashi resemble the traditional craftsmanship and refinement in a way we appreciate most.

Master Kenji Togashi is one of the most celebrated and distiguisted blacksmith from Sakai. Not only a “Dentokogeshi” (certified traditional craftsman) but also awarded with a medal from the emperor for his accomplishments and service. One of the, if not the, most honourable and prestigious decorations in Japan. To be awarded such a prestigious titles is proof of vast knowledge and skill. He is amongst the very few remaining blacksmiths in Japan with the skillset to forge water-quenched Honyaki blades. A true master of traditional techniques. Togashi made knives are characterised by their durability and hardness while still easy to sharpen. Not only the steel quality but also their in-house sharpening is praiseworthy. In charge of the in-house sharpening is Kenya Togashi, the third son of Togashi San, and from him we see some of the most true and consistent single and double-bevel sharpening we've come across. All their knives really feel like they've been made with the intention to last for years.

The gyuto is a true all-rounder and suitable for a wide variety of cutting tasks. A go-to knife for many and an ideal shape to start out with. Based on the Western style chef’s knife, the gyuto has a decent length, enough height to clear the knuckles from the cutting board and a somewhat narrow tip. It’s just as good at chopping an onion or cabbage, as slicing a roast or portioning fish. There's no shame in owning multiple gyuto's

This is a carbon steel knife with a soft stainless steel cladding. Many Japanese knives are constructed with a 3-layer design known as “San Mai,” where a hard, high-quality steel core is sandwiched between two layers of softer steel. In this case, the core is made of carbon steel, while the outer layers, or cladding, are composed of stainless steel. This construction combines the benefits of a carbon steel edge—such as easy sharpening and excellent edge retention—with the added corrosion resistance of stainless steel for the rest of the blade.

Although the cladding offers protection against oxidation, it’s still important to care for the knife properly. Store it clean and dry, avoid air-drying after washing, and never place it in the dishwasher. Additionally, steer clear of cutting very hard materials like frozen food or bones, which can damage the edge.