Masamoto Sohonten White #2 Honyaki Ebony Handle Yanagi

Masamoto Shiro-ko Honyaki knives are forged in Japan from a single piece of white carbon steel #2, adorned with a magnolia or ebony wood handle and a water buffalo horn bolster. Masamoto Sohonten’s honyaki knives represent the company’s long standing history and prestige in Japan. White carbon steel honyaki style knives can achieve the sharpest edge possible out of all traditional Japanese knives, but are incredibly difficult to forge and use. Korin only recommends honyaki knives to those very experienced with traditional Japanese knives.

About Masamoto
Minosuke Matsuzawa, the founder of the Masamoto Sohonten Company started making knives in 1866. It was his dream that his family would come to be remembered as knife craftsmen throughout the generations. Now, five generations later, Matsuzawa’s vision has been realized and professionally crafted Masamoto knives have become widely regarded as the finest knives made for professional use.

Purpose of Yanagi
The yanagi is used to slice boneless fish fillets into sashimi and toppings for sushi. The graceful, long and thin blade is designed to cut slices in one drawing stroke, which applies minimal pressure on the flesh of the fish to avoid stress and cell destruction. Different cutting techniques are used with the yanagi to enhance the aesthetics and the flavors of the fish. There are several variations of fish slicers that are all used in different situations and regions, however the yanagi style is the most widely used. Originated in Kansai (Osaka) region.