Takeshi Saji

Takeshi Saji is now 72 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 tirelessly researches new ways to improve his products and create original, attractive knives.

When I first handled this Saji Knife, I was immediately impressed by their overall quality. In particular, I felt the blade finish and sleek handle complimented each other exceptionally well and that this combination had a very natural appearance. I realized that Takeshi Saji’s new Custom knives had become a 'next stage' product and reached a new level of refinement.

The hammer forged R-2 blade (HRc. 62 to 63) is clad with soft stainless steel and features a very natural-looking Tsuchime Hammered texture, which is created with simple round dimples.

The simple cladding contrasts vividly with the R-2 blade core and the wavy lamination line provides a beautiful design accent.

The blade is very thin and finely ground, resulting in excellent cutting performance and blade balance. Shaped by hand to ensure a comfortable, secure grip, the oval handle is made from beautifully figured Quince Burl Wood and has a seamless stainless steel bolster and butt for improved balance and durability (Spacers are Black Fiber & Nickel Silver).

A number of forge smiths produce traditional hammer forged kitchen knives, but very few of them have the skill and precise control that is necessary to produce Western-style custom handle that are sturdy and have good blade balance. Takeshi Saji continues to make practical, fine, custom hand-made Western-style kitchen knives using traditional hammer forging techniques!

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. The Gyuto is true multi-purpose knife.