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Ohishi White #1 Iron Clad Suminagashi Nakir Knife 135mm – Zelkova Handle
Ohishi – Practical Japanese Knives
Based in Sanjo City, Niigata Prefecture, Ohishi is part of the wider Nakaya / Akifusa knife range, producing accessible entry- and mid-tier Japanese knives in a variety of steels, blade shapes, and finishes.
The brand works with skilled makers and workshops across Japan, offering everything from stainless everyday knives to more traditional carbon steel blades with kurouchi, nashiji, and suminagashi finishes. Ohishi knives are a great choice for anyone looking for a well-made Japanese knife without moving straight into the highest-priced handmade ranges.
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Nakiri – The Vegetable Knife
The nakiri is a double-bevel vegetable knife designed for efficient prep. With a flat edge profile and squared-off tip, it excels at clean, straight cuts through vegetables without the need for a rocking motion. The full edge contact makes it particularly effective for push cutting and chopping, helping to produce even slices with minimal cracking.
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White #1 Steel – Fine Carbon Steel Edge
White #1, also known as Shirogami #1, is a high-carbon Japanese steel known for its very fine grain structure and keen edge potential. It is a simple carbon steel, prized for the sharp edge it can take and its responsive sharpening feel.
It is not stainless. The blade will develop a patina with use and can rust if left wet, so it should be wiped during prep and dried thoroughly after washing.
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Iron Clad – Reactive Traditional Construction
Iron-clad knives feature a reactive iron outer layer over a hard core steel. The softer cladding acts as a shock absorber, helping protect the harder core during use.
It will develop a natural patina over time, but will rust quickly if left wet. Dry thoroughly after use, avoid prolonged contact with acidic foods, and wipe during prep to keep it in good condition.
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Suminagashi / Damascus – Layered Steel Finish
Suminagashi means “floating ink” and refers to the flowing pattern created by layers of steel in the cladding. Often described as a type of Damascus finish, it gives the blade movement and depth, with each knife showing slight variation in the pattern.
On this knife, the suminagashi pattern is visible across the blade face, giving a refined layered look without feeling overly decorative.
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Why We Like It
This is a lovely compact petty with a very clean, precise feel. The White #1 core gives it strong sharpening potential, while the iron cladding and suminagashi finish bring a more traditional character to the blade.
The zelkova handle keeps the overall look warm and understated, balancing nicely with the brighter layered steel. A useful small knife with a lot more presence than a basic utility blade.
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Knife Care
This is a carbon steel knife and should not be put in the dishwasher. Wash by hand only, wipe during prep, and dry thoroughly after washing. The blade will develop a natural patina with use.
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Age Verification
Age is verified at checkout and again by the courier upon delivery. Someone over 18 must be available to receive the parcel.
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Specifications
Blade Shape: Petty
Blade Length: 135mm
Blade Height:
Steel: White #1 / Shirogami #1
Construction: San Mai
Cladding: Iron Clad
Finish: Suminagashi / Damascus
Handle: Zelkova
Handle Type: Wa Handle
HRC:
Bevel: Double Bevel
Weight:
Overall Length:
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.
