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Shigeki Tanaka Blue 2 Damascus Bunka 180mm

$159.00 USD $136.00 USD

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Knife Specifications

We strive to provide accurate measurements and photographs of our products. However, due to the handmade nature of many items slight variations may occur.

Style

Bunka

Blade Material

Blue 2 Core, Soft Iron Damascus Clad

Handle Material

Octagon Bubinga

Bevel

Double Bevel

Maintenance Level

High

Edge Length

180mm

Overall Length

320mm

Spine Thickness

2mm @ Mid

Blade Height

46mm

Weight

149g

HRC

~62

An In depth look

Blade Type

The Bunka knife, a versatile and traditional Japanese kitchen tool, features a distinctive, angular tip and a wide blade. It's designed for precision tasks like slicing, dicing, and chopping. Ideal for handling vegetables, meat, and fish, the Bunka is a multifunctional knife celebrated for its utility and unique aesthetic.

Steel Type

Japanese Blue Steel #2, or "Aogami" #2, is a revered high-carbon steel alloyed with low amounts of chromium and tungsten. It strikes an excellent balance between durability, edge retention, and ease of sharpening. Slightly more ductile than Blue #1, it's widely used in crafting traditional Japanese knives, beloved by chefs for its resilience and sharpness, albeit is slightly softer than Blue 1.

Care Information

This knife is made from a high-carbon steel and as such, will require a little more care than a regular off-the-shelf knife. It must be dried shortly after use, as prolonged exposure to moisture can cause rust spots to appear. A very light coat of oil during storage also helps to prevent rust spots. A patina (colouration and seasoning of the steel) will occur with use.

Introducing

Shigeki Tanaka

A fourth-generation blacksmith from the storied city of Miki in Hyogo Prefecture, Shigeki Tanaka blends rich heritage with remarkable creativity and precision. Descended from a renowned family of toolmakers dating back to the Meiji Period, Tanaka’s lineage is distinguished by their excellence in crafting both sickles and kitchen knives.

Tanaka honed his skills at the renowned Takefu Knife Village in Fukui Prefecture before establishing his own forge back in Miki. Widely regarded as one of Japan’s most skilled young artisans, he masterfully works with an extensive range of knifemaking steels—from traditional high-carbon (such as Aogami) to advanced powder stainless steels like R2/SG2.

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