Steel: Semi-stainless SLD with 2 layers of stainless cladding (HRC: 60-62)
Blade length: 210 mm
Blade height: 49 mm
Blade thickness: 1.8 mm
Weight: 110 g
Blade finish: Polished with a slightly hazy finish on the blade face contrasting with the highly polished core steel
Handle: Mono bubinga

This knife series is the result of a close collaboration between Hatsukokoro and one of the largest and most highly regarded knife manufacturers in Seki City, Japan. We are very impressed by this series. The excellent SLD steel, beautiful finish, extremely thin blades, and very attractive price make these knives an easy recommendation.

SLD is a highly wear-resistant steel that retains its sharpness for a very long time, particularly when the edge is not polished too finely and is allowed to retain some bite. We recommend finishing the edge at 1000 to 3000 grit for an excellent combination of sharpness, bite, and long-lasting edge retention. SLD is SEMI-STAINLESS, meaning that it offers good resistance to rust but is not completely stainless. Over time, the core steel will therefore darken slightly, creating a beautiful contrast between the core steel and the stainless cladding.

Important:
The edge is hard and thin, so take care not to subject it to excessive stress, particularly lateral force. When using a Japanese knife with a thin blade, the edge should always be in motion while cutting. Never force the blade straight through an ingredient without a cutting motion. Do not twist or rock the blade sideways to pry ingredients apart.