Takeshi Saji is now 74 years old and is one of the most experienced and famous forge smiths in Takefu (Now Echizen City), Fukui Prefecture.

He is still very active and insists on creating and making his own unique custom kitchen knifes. He also spends significant time and energy teaching and mentoring the next generation of young forge smiths and craftsmen at the 'Takefu Knife Village Cooperative’.

We all respect Takeshi Saji’s extensive knowledge and his lifelong devotion to knife making and the cutlery industry.

Since the year 2020, we have been working closely with Master Saji to create a new range of top-tier knives that will include unique 'one-of-a-kind' knives and limited edition custom knives, which will often feature special handles. Today, we are very excited to introduce the Saji SUMMIT ― Limited Edition Custom Series!

After testing and evaluating a very reputable Powdered Metallurgy High Speed Tool Steel, called “R-2” (Manufactured by Kobelco), he decided to produce an exciting new range of this traditionally hammer-forged Damascus kitchen knife using this modern ‘super steel’.

Polished R-2 Damascus blade, which features unique ‘random Damascus’ pattern, which Master Saji calls “Diamond Damascus”. It is handcrafted using a complex series of forging processes and undergoes a specially formulated acid etching and polishing process. When combined, these techniques produce a unique Damascus blade, which has an uneven surface texture that sparkles beautifully, like a cluster of cut diamonds.

This Custom Limited Edition Takeshi Saji R-2 Damascus Wa Gyuto Knife with Contemporary, Stylish Wa Handle.  The Innovative Octagonal Turquoise Gem-Composite Stone Handle. For safekeeping, this knife comes with a matching Black Lacquered  wood Saya (Sheath) with a black pakkawood Saya pin.

The Gyuto is the Japanese version of the classic Western Chef’s knife. It can be used with a variety of different cutting techniques to achieve a wide range of kitchen tasks and is suitable for cutting the vast majority of meats, fish, vegetables and fruits. 

Knife Model: Takeshi Saji SUMMIT ― Limited Edition Custom WA Series R-2 Custom Damascus Wa Gyuto 240mm

Blade Material:  R-2 Custom Diamond Damascus

Rockwell Hardness (HRc): 63

Blade Grind and Edge Shape: Double Bevel Edge 50/50

Handle Material:  Octagonal Turquoise Gem-Composite Stone 

Saya Included: Yes.

This knife comes with 50/50 double bevel edge geometry for both right and left handed use.

For your information, Japanese Kitchen knives are generally designed for right hand use with a slightly thicker and rounded grinding on the right side blade and a less rounded (almost straight flat) grinding on the left side blade. However, both right and left hander can use the knives that have double bevel edge sharpened 50/50 without problems. 

We believe the quality and cutting performance of Japanese knives are the best in the world, and hope you enjoy fine craftsmanship and sharp edge with your new knife. With proper cares, every Japanese knife should be your special cooking partner for long times.

Important

This is the Powdered High Speed Tool Steel blade kitchen knife that has a rust resistance for easy maintenance. However, it may get rust, if kept in wet condition. 

• Please do not put the knife in the dishwasher machine for cleaning.
• Please do not leave the knife in water or wet condition for long time.
• After using, please hand wash the blade, bolster and handle thoroughly, and wipe it clean and dry with soft clothes, and keep it in dry place.
• This is an extremely sharp knife. Please use special cares in using and storing it.
• Unlike German made knives, Japanese knife blades are ground to thin cutting edge for sharper cutting and easier re-sharpening. Please protect the edge from hitting hard materials to avoid chipping or cracking.
• Please do not use it to cut bone or frozen foods, any hard shell foods such as lobster and crab.
• We recommend using Japanese whetstones to re-sharpen the knife, when it gets dull.