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Tsutomu Kajiwara Blue #2 Damascus Santoku 165mm
Santoku – The Japanese All-Rounder
Santoku translates to “three virtues”, referring to its suitability for meat, fish, and vegetables. With a flatter edge profile and a relatively low tip, it naturally suits push cutting and straight up-and-down chopping. Typically shorter and slightly taller than a gyuto, it offers good board contact and control, making it well suited to a wide range of everyday kitchen tasks.
Damascus – Layered Construction
Damascus cladding is created by forging together multiple layers of steel, resulting in the flowing patterns visible across the blade. In this case, it sits over a Blue #2 core, adding a layer of protection while still leaving the blade reactive. Each knife will show slight variation in pattern.
Blue #2 (Aogami #2) – Balanced Carbon Steel
Blue #2 is a traditional Japanese carbon steel that balances edge retention with ease of sharpening. It holds an edge longer than White steel while still responding well on whetstones.
In use, that translates to:
• A fine, stable edge
• Longer intervals between sharpening
• A slightly more forgiving feel than very pure carbon steels
As with all carbon steels, it will develop a patina over time and should be dried thoroughly after use.
San Mai – Three-Layer Construction
Constructed using san mai, with a hard Blue #2 core steel clad in softer iron. This adds toughness and shock resistance while allowing the core steel to take a fine edge. The iron cladding is reactive and will develop a patina with use.
Why We Like It
A well-balanced santoku with the added durability of Blue #2. The Damascus cladding gives it a bit more presence on the board, while the core steel keeps things practical for regular use.
Specification
Blade Length: 165mm
Blade Height: ~45–48mm
Steel: Blue #2 (carbon steel)
Construction: San Mai (iron clad, damascus finish)
Finish: Damascus
Handle: Rosewood
Bevel: Double bevel
Care
Hand wash only. Dry thoroughly after use. As an iron-clad carbon steel knife, it will develop a natural patina and can rust if left wet. Wipe during use, especially when working with acidic ingredients. Use a wooden or soft plastic chopping board and sharpen on whetstones to maintain performance.
Age Verification
This is an age-restricted product. Your age will be verified at checkout, and again by the courier on delivery. Orders cannot be left in a safe place or with neighbours — someone over 18 will need to be present to receive it.
We ship Tuesday to Saturday using Royal Mail Tracked 24.
All knives ship via an age verified service in accordance with The Offensive Weapons Act 2019, which will mean the postie will need you to be in to receive the delivery & to check your ID if you look under 25.
The law also requires us to carry out a soft age check of the purchaser after checkout, this is done by an automated system that usually doesn't require your input, although we will need to contact you for proof of age if you fail, which can sometimes happen if you use a work address.
of Community Cutlery as a home for enthusiasts, for people who love the ritual of food preparation and who have realised the charm in doing it with quality tools, with items that are as pleasing on the eye as they are practical in the hand.
