Hatsukokoro Irodori

Sanmai - Stainless Damascus Clad Etched Blue 2 / Aogami #2 / Carbon Stainless Clad Hyogo, Japan

The Hatsukokoro x Nigara Irodori series blends tradition and innovation, crafted by two of Japan’s finest knife makers. Featuring a Blue #2 steel core with a striking black-etched finish, it offers enhanced rust resistance and a bold aesthetic.

Its exquisite copper and brass Damascus pattern showcases Nigara Hamono’s masterful forging, adding both beauty and strength. True to Nigara’s craftsmanship, each knife is hand-forged with precision, ensuring top-tier performance.

With high-performance steel, a unique finish, and impeccable fit and finish, the Irodori series is a perfect choice for chefs and collectors alike—a true fusion of artistry and functionality.

Pros

Great artistic
Excellent fit and finish
Excellent performance

Cons

High budget
Prone to rust

Best For

Enthusiasts
Pro chefs
Collectors

Construction

Sanmai - Stainless Damascus Clad

Surface Finish

Etched

Cladding

Stainless Clad

Steel

Blue 2 / Aogami #2 / Carbon

Origin

Hyogo, Japan

Hatsukokoro Irodori Nigara Copper Damascus Wa Handle

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Blue 2 and White 2 steel?

Proterial lists 1.05 to 1.15% carbon for both steels; its Blue 2 table lists 0.20 to 0.50% chromium and 1.00 to 1.50% tungsten, while its White 2 table lists neither.

Proterial describes White 2 as a carbon steel with minimum impurities and high hardness, and Blue 2 as an alloy steel with tungsten and chromium to improve heat-treatment properties and wear resistance, with a hardening hardness of over 60 HRC for both. In its Japanese materials, Proterial calls its Aogami (青紙) steels high-carbon steel (高炭素鋼). Neither steel is close to the JSSA's 10.5% minimum for stainless.

Published by K&S Education Desk; staff review pending