Akihata Hironori | Kurouchi Bread Knife 120mm

【Request】
To ensure that many people can enjoy Hirotoku Akahata's works, we kindly ask that you limit your purchase to one item per person, with a total of three items including different types. We appreciate your understanding.
Orders exceeding this limit will unfortunately be cancelled.

Bread Knife Made by a Blacksmith

This is the "Black-Forged Bread Knife 120mm" crafted by Hirotoku Akahata, the fifth-generation blacksmith of "Kaji An Daitoku," who has a workshop in Matsusaka City, Mie Prefecture. Unlike common stainless steel bread knives, Mr. Akahata's bread knives are created through fire forging, hammering and tempering steel to produce a black-forged finish.

Mr. Akahata's knives are used in our own home. He pours his passion into making knives that are truly sharp, never compromising on quality. We recommend these knives to anyone who wants to use them for a long time.
［From top: Black-Forged Bread Knife 210mm, Black-Forged Bread Knife 120mm］
［The serrated edge design has been changed. It cuts more easily and smoothly.］

A Serrated Bread Knife, Rare for Forged Blades

In addition to the usual forging process, the serrated edge is hand-filed by Mr. Akahata himself after the blade is made. This is a very intricate process requiring delicacy, and the bread knife is created with the blacksmith's skill, experience, and a significant amount of time and effort.
［Photo shows old specifications.］
［Photo shows old specifications.］

For Both Soft and Hard Breads

The refined sharpness of the forged blade produces almost no crumbs. Soft bread can be cut smoothly without being crushed, and hard-crusted bread can be effortlessly sliced by using the serrated edge to create an initial cut. Additionally, it is a double-edged type, so it can be used by both left and right-handed individuals.
［Photo shows old specifications.］

Black-Forged Finish Knife

This black-forged knife intentionally retains the blackened surface from the quenching process. Its rugged appearance, showing the hammer marks, is its charm. It is also said to be more rust-resistant than fully polished knives. It pairs well with wooden handles and boasts an excellent design.

Strong and Sharp Edge

By hammering, forging, quenching, and tempering, a strong knife is born. The strength varies depending on the heating method and the degree of redness, making the blacksmith's skill and experience crucial. Finally, Mr. Akahata himself hand-sharpens the blade to achieve a keen edge.

Easy-to-Hold Wooden Handle

The handle is made of solid black walnut. The unevenness from the carving makes it easy and comfortable to grip. This carving is also done thoroughly by Mr. Akahata, using a knife in three steps, without relying on machinery. After the tang is inserted, the blade and wooden handle are fixed with brass.

Engraving

Finally, Mr. Akahata engraves his mark to certify its creation, completing the knife.

Knives You'll Want to Have in Your Home

Mr. Akahata's knife series. We've gathered knives that you'll want to have for everyday use in your home.
［From left: Black-Forged Bread Knife 210mm, Black-Forged Bread Knife 120mm, Black-Forged Santoku Knife 165mm, Black-Forged Paring Knife 120mm, Black-Forged Coro Paring Knife, Black-Forged Nakiri Knife 165mm, Black-Forged Nakiri Knife 120mm, Black-Forged Coro Nakiri Knife］

Delivered in a Beautiful Gift Box

According to Mr. Akahata, the box is designed to evoke the image of drawing a sword from its sheath. This unique idea from a blacksmith makes the process of revealing the knife an enjoyable experience. It is also highly recommended as a gift.

Easy Maintenance

While forged blades may seem intimidating, they are very easy to maintain. After use, simply wash off any dirt with dish soap, wipe off moisture thoroughly, and store. Due to the properties of iron, if rust appears, please remove it using a cleanser or eraser-type rust remover.

For the wooden handle, about twice a year, or when you notice the oil wearing off, apply walnut oil or perilla oil soaked into a kitchen paper. After application, wipe off any excess oil and dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area. *Please dispose of the kitchen paper used for oiling after wetting it with water.

Resharpening Service

To ensure you can use your knife for a long time, we offer a resharpening maintenance service by Mr. Akahata. The customer is responsible for round-trip shipping and maintenance fees. Please contact our shop if you wish to use this service.
Kaji An was founded in April 1894. From the first to the third generation, they were involved in manufacturing agricultural tools and forestry tools. The fourth generation did not engage in blacksmithing but started an ironwork and construction business. After the passing of the third generation (grandfather), blacksmithing was suspended for about 20 years. However, Hirotoku Akahata, the fifth generation, resolved to revive the blacksmithing business and apprenticed under Mr. Teiichiro Yamaguchi, the master of the Kyoto knife blacksmith "Yoshisada." In April 2008, he opened Kaji An Daitoku, which continues to this day.
Click here to see a list of Hirotoku Akahata's works


This is the small size of the bread knife made by Hirotoku Akahata, the fifth-generation blacksmith of "Kaji An Daitoku." Unlike common stainless steel bread knives, it is a black-forged bread knife made by fire forging, hammering, and tempering steel.

【Product Name】Black-Forged Bread Knife 120mm
【Size (approx.)】Total length 250mm, blade length 135mm, cutting edge length 120mm
【Weight (approx.)】52g
【Materials】Blade: Steel/Iron, Handle: Black Walnut (solid), Brass
【Notes】Double-edged type, usable by both right and left-handed individuals.

● Precautions for Use
・For first-time use, please wash with dish soap before using.
・After use, wash off dirt with dish soap and wipe off moisture thoroughly.
Dishwasher/dryer ×

● Please read before purchasing.
・As all items are handmade, there may be individual differences in size, weight, color, unevenness, and shape.
・Each wooden handle has a unique grain and color, even if from the same type of wood.
Please enjoy this as the unique character of a one-of-a-kind product.
Please understand the above before making your purchase.