Takeshi Saji

Master Saji always tries to make his knives distinctive and different from the other knives on the market. His inquiring mind and his knowledge of traditional Japanese arts and crafts have enabled him to create a variety of highly original knives that blend old-world charm with modern materials and practical design features.

These new knives from Master Saji each feature a wooden handle and Saya (Sheath) that have been wrapped with beautifully textured and patterned Cherry (Sakura) Tree Bark. The bark has been coated with a special resin that makes them waterproof, shrink-proof and hygienic, so these knives are practical, in addition to being unique and rare. Master Saji has used this Sakura bark covering for many years on one of his best-selling series of Hunting Knives, and it has become a feature that people associate with Master Saji and his distinctive knives. In Japan, Cherry bark has been used for over 200 years to fashion small containers for tea and tobacco accessories because the bark enables moisture levels inside the container to be kept relatively constant. The craft of Kabazaiku is quite labor-intensive, but it produces highly practical objects that allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of Cherry bark everyday!

The unique multi-coloured Damascus blade matches the colour and pattern of the Cherry Bark exceptionally well. The blade features a core of Blue #2 carbon steel that is clad with multiple layers of rust-resistant stainless steel, brass and copper. The knives are also fitted with a matching brass bolster for improved handle durability and blade balance.

Once again, Master Saji has created an innovative new artistic style for his knives. The harmonious marriage between the traditional "Sakura-Maki" wrapped handle and Saya (Sheath) and the striking Rainbow Damascus blade is stunning. I wonder, what will his inventive mind create next?

The tall blade and rounded nose / tip of the Santoku make it a versatile knife that is well suited to cutting meat, fish, or vegetables; Hence it’s name, which literally means “Three-purpose”. The Santoku is often recommended as a multi-purpose kitchen knife.