Sakai Takayuki Homura Guren Blue #2 Kurouchi Tsuchime Gyuto 225mm (by Itsuo Doi)

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In modern knife making where every brand seems to be making thin, polished laser knives, the Homura Guren collection is a bold departure from these trends. It's thick, chunky, heavy and raw. Hand-forged by Sakai master blacksmith Itsuo Doi, this blade undergoes low-temperature forging, cold hammering, and water quenching, a meticulous process that is rarely done in modern knife making.

With a Aogami #2 steel core, clad in soft iron and hardened to 62-63 HRC, the Homura Guren delivers exceptional edge retention and cutting performance despite its overall thickness. Its wild hammering pattern shaped by thousands of hammer blows, creates a blade with a surprisingly good food release and reflects the philosophy of Wabi-Sabi—finding beauty in imperfection. Its heft combined with a convex grind ensures stability and power, making it a true workhorse.

Each knife bears the personal seal of Itsuo Doi, a mark of its authenticity and heritage. The name Guren (red lotus) honors the intense red flames from the pine charcoal used in its forging. Within the box, you will find a piece of origami tucked away near the handle. Please unravel it to find a momento inside.

Note 1: Sakai-made knives tend to be shorter because the measurement is from the neck to the tip, instead of the edge length. Edge length for our sample knife is 205mm

Note 2: This knife is made from iron and carbon steel, which gets incredibly sharp and is easy to sharpen but may rust easily. Carbon steel knives are reactive with acidic foods. Over time the knife will develop a layer of patina which protects the blade from rusting, but before the patina develops, it is crucial to keep the knife clean and dry at all times. Oil when not in use for an extended amount of time.

Blade Type: Kengata Gyuto
Core: Aogami 2 (Blue 2) Carbon Steel
Cladding: Iron Cladding
Handle: Lacquered Oak Wood Octagonal Handle
Spine Thickness at Heel: 3.3mm
HRC: 62-63
Weight: 232g
Blade Length: 205mm
Overall Length: 372mm