Masamoto Sohonten White #2 Hongasumi Yanagi with Purple Heart Wood Handle
Description
The Masamoto Shiro-ko Hongasumi knives are forged in Japan from a combination of white carbon steel #2 and soft iron steel, and handled with magnolia wood and a water buffalo bolster. White steel’s pure carbon content allows for the sharpest cutting edge. The main difference between the kasumi and hongasumi line is found in the crafting process. More steps, higher level craftsman, and greater attention to detail are involved when crafting hongasumi knives, and they therefore are more refined than kasumi 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.
About Purple Heart Wood
Purple heart wood is native to tropical rain forests of Central and South America. The trees are known for their heartwood which, when cut, quickly turns from a light brown to a rich purple color. Purple heart wood is extremely durable.
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.
CAUTION: Moisture Causes Rusting and Discoloration
Country of Origin: Japan
Specifications
| Style | Yanagi |
|---|---|
| Steel Type | Carbon steel (CAUTION: MOISTURE AND ACID CAUSES RUST AND DISCOLORATION) |
| Steel Material | White Steel #2 |
| Classification | Hongasumi |
| Saya Cover | Magnolia Wooden Cover Included |
| Knife Bevel | Single Sided |
| Handle Material | Purple Heart Wood |
| Bolster Material | Water Buffalo Horn (Bolsters are made from natural horn therefore colors may vary) |
| HRC | 62 - 63 |
Use
General knife care tips and warnings
- Never wash knives in the dishwasher
- This is not stain resistant. It will rust and discolor after cutting acidic ingredients or if one leaves it wet.
- Improper care will result in chipping.
- Please wipe knives dry after use to prevent rusting. Korin recommends wiping carbon knives with tsubaki oil to keep moisture off the knife.
- Western style knives sold at KORIN have significantly thinner blades than typical Western knives. Use of honing steels or sharpening machines may result in chipping.
- We advice all customers to always use sharpening stones to sharpen or hone knives.
Please be cautious when inspecting carbon knives with wet hands after purchase. We ask customers to inspect all knives prior to using, and will not accept returns on damaged goods. In the event you receive a rusted knife, please call customer service within 48 hours, and we will be happy to assist you.
For more information, please check our pages on sharpening tips.