The KA Series is Masamoto’s range of high-grade Ao-ko #2 (Blue Steel No.2) Hon Kasumi Japanese traditional-style knives. When compared with the Kasumi knife-making process, the production of Hon Kasumi knives requires several extra steps be carried out during the forging, quenching, sharpening and finishing stages of production and requires a higher level of craftsmanship. Unlike the KK Series, the KA Series is completely hand sharpened, polished and finished by especially skilled and experienced craftsmen, which results in extra edge sharpness and a more refined level of finish.

Masamoto KA Series knife uses a blade core of Hitachi Blue Steel No.2 (HRc. 62-63), which is forge-welded with soft iron. Blue No.2 steel is made by adding Chromium (0.2-0.5 %) and Tungsten / Wolfram (1.0-1.5 %) to a base of White steel No.2. This results in steel that has comparable edge sharpness to White steel No.2, but improved strength, toughness and edge retention, so it is a good choice for users who need a sharp knife throughout their working day. However, it can take a little longer to sharpen than White Steel No.2 blade.

Masamoto KA Series knife is fitted with a traditional Japanese ‘D-shaped’ magnolia wood handle with a water buffalo horn ferrule / collar and also includes a matching magnolia wood Saya (Sheath) for safekeeping.

Yanagiba knives are primarily used to slice boneless fish fillets for Sashimi and Sushi dishes, but they can also be used to fillet small to medium-sized fish and are often used for skinning fish. The narrow blade and relatively acute edge angle of the Yanagiba are features which greatly reduce the effort required to cut through ingredients. As with the Sujihiki, the long blade allows the fish to be cut in one single drawing motion, from heel to tip. 

The combination of cutting technique, acute blade angle, and sharp edge result in very little cellular damage in the cut surface. This is particularly important for dishes where the fish is eaten raw, because it helps to preserve the original flavor and texture of the fish.

Notice about White and Marble Colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrules for Masamoto Knives:

For several years, Masamoto and most other Japanese knife makers have unfortunately been struggling to source Wa handles with White or Marble colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrules, which are becoming very scarce.

Under these difficult circumstances, both we and Masamoto have done our best to satisfy customers who have requested knives with White Ferrules or Marble colored Ferrules. However, to cover increased costs, Masamoto will now require an extra US$13 when you request a knife with either a White or a Marble colored Ferrule. Please note that even if you request a Marble colored Ferrule, there is still a possibility that Masamoto will only be able to supply your knife with a White Ferrule. Similarly, even if you request a White Ferrule, Masamoto might only be able to supply your knife with a Marble colored Ferrule.

Although White and Marble colored Ferrules have an appealing, distinctive appearance, we actually recommend the simple, stylish solid Black Horn Ferrules because many years of expert experience (Including numerous Wa Handle Craftsmen, professional Japanese Food Chefs and Experienced Knife Users) suggests that Black Horn Ferrules are stronger and more durable than White or Marble colored Horn Ferrules.

If you order a Masamoto knife with a White or Marble colored Horn Ferrule and Masamoto cannot fulfil your request, we will inform you by Email and ask if you are willing to accept a Black colored Water Buffalo Horn Ferrule instead. We apologize for this inconvenience, however, no matter the color of the ferrule, we are confident that you will enjoy your Masamoto knife.

Knife Model: Masamoto KA Series Yanagiba

Blade Material:  Blue Steel No.2

Rockwell Hardness (HRc): 62 to 63

Blade Grind and Edge Shape: Single Bevel Edge

Handle Material: D Shaped Magnolia Wooden Handle with Water Buffalo Horn Ferrule

Saya Included: Yes.

Japanese Traditional Style “Wa-Bocho” knives generally come with Single bevel edge for right-handed use (the opposite side of blade is ground flat with slightly concaved shape). The reverse grinding left-handed version is also available at 50% extra of regular price. (Sorry for much extra! Due to a small demand for the left-handed version in Japan, it is costly to run a special small production from the beginning step and production is very very limited.)

If the left-handed version knife is being out of stock in Masamoto inventory, it often requires very long delivery time. Please contact us first for the availability at email.

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

Important

This is the Carbon steel blade kitchen knife that can get rust and discolor easily, and requires extra care and attention to prevent rust.