Crows Nest store now open from Friday to Tuesday, 10am till 6pm.

K&S - Sydney  |  SKU: HST-SHGA-GIN3-DB120

Hatsukokoro x Myojin Shirasagi Ginsan Ko Deba 120mm

Regular price $249.95

Pickup available at Crows Nest

Usually ready in 24 hours

Add a saya or K&S Knife Roll to receive $20 bundle discount!

Detailed Specifications
Line Hatsukokoro Shirasagi Ginsan Kasumi
Profile Deba / Japanese Fish Knife
Bevel Type Single Bevel
Weight 115 g | 4.1 oz
Edge Length 120 mm | 4 23/32″
Heel Height 40 mm | 1 37/64″
Width @ Heel 3.5 mm | 9/64″
Width @ Mid 2.8 mm | 7/64″
Width @ 1cm from Tip 1.9 mm | 5/64″
Steel Ginsan / Silver #3 | Stainless
Blade Construction Nimai - Stainless Clad
Hardness (HRC) 60 - 62
Surface Finish Kasumi
Handle Octagonal Wenge Handle Black Ferrule
Region Tosa
Best for
  • Pro chefs
  • Enthusiasts
  • Free shipping for knives over AU$200 Australia wide.
  • World-wide shipping via DHL Express, 3 to 5 days.


The Shirasagi family from Hatsukokoro contains a series of single bevel knives sharpened at Myojin Riki Seisakusho - a workshop from Kochi prefecture that is well know for its top notch sharpening and polishing. This Ginsan stainless steel line is a great complement to the existing Blue/White 2 Shirasagi, offering another low maintenance Ginsan steel Deba at a reasonable price.

The Shirasagi Ginsan have demonstrated a consistent level of finish that we expect from Myojin Riki, the spine is well rounded, the smoothened coil and other corners fall into smoothly polished surfaces, the Migaki is done well on the Hira and the bevel have a contrasting Kasumi, with scratches oriented towards different directions to create a sharp Shinogi line. The blade is forged in a distinct Tosa manner, with curved and tapered Machi and a more round look compare to the typical Sakai counterparts.

These knives are positioned a bit lower than the Sakai Takayuki Gintan line in price, and they are very similar in terms of their features and performance. It's always good to have another option, not to mention it's a more budget friendly one in rather niche category of Ginsan Deba.

Pros Cons
  • Great for professionals
  • Easy to look after
  • Excellent fit and finish
  • Need some work on the blade
Care Instruction
  1. Don't cut hard things! Japanese knives are brittle so bone hacking is a NO NO!
  2. Wash with neutral detergent after use, and wipe dry;
  3. Please don't wash knife with dishwasher, it will damage the wood handle;
  4. Be careful not to leave the knife close to a heat source for a long time;
  5. It is a lot more dangerous to cut with a blunt knife than a sharp knife!
  6. It is best to sharpen a Japanese knife regularly on a waterstone.

Myojin Riki

Myojin Riki Seisakusho — Tosa's Sharpening Prodigy

The Myojin Riki Manufacturing, established by a founder who mastered his skills in Osaka, the heartland of blade-making, has been operational for over 80 years. Specializing in knives made from steel and iron, they've recently focused on stainless steel knives, valued for their light weight, resistance to rust, and exceptional sharpness. These knives are popular among both professionals and general consumers, partly due to their application of the "stacked steel pattern" traditionally found in swords. The second generation continues to innovate, customizing products to meet users' needs, while also contributing to cultural preservation through their involvement with local traditional performances and blade repairs.

Naohito Myojin, the second generation craftsman of Myojin Riki, has dedicated himself to continuing the legacy of his predecessor's craftsmanship in knife making. Focused on innovation while preserving traditional techniques, Naohito has made a significant mark in the field by customizing knives that not only meet the practical needs of users but also contribute to the cultural heritage through his involvement in local traditions and blade restoration efforts. His work reflects a deep commitment to quality, functionality, and the preservation of the artistry involved in Japanese knife making.

“From Sakai-trained roots in Tosa — a father-son forge where the grind is everything.”

Est. 1950 | 昭和25年
Known for Exceptional grinding and sharpening, tanryusen (metal flow) finish
Instagram @tetsujin_labo Read more about Myojin Riki
Myojin Riki — Tosa
Profile: Deba
Profile

Deba

Japanese Fish Knife

A Deba(出刃) knife is a traditional Japanese kitchen knife specifically designed for butchering fish, though it can also be used for poultry and other meats with smaller bones. Deba typically have a single bevel blade, meaning there is a bevel on one side and Ura or concavity on the other. This design is intended for right-handed use, though left-handed versions are available by special order. Commonly, Deba are made in sizes ranging from 150mm to 210mm, length longer than that is available, but those would be extremely unwieldy due to the weight. This weight comes from the thick blade of the Deba, and the thickness gives these knives the necessary strength and weight needed for beak apart the whole fish.
Composition

Ginsan / Silver #3 Element Composition

Compare with
    Ginsan / Silver #3
    13.0% 9.8% 6.5% 3.3% 0
    C Carbon 1.0%
    Primary hardening element. Raises hardness and wear resistance — but too much increases brittleness and corrosion susceptibility. As a reference: German 1.4112 (~0.5%) sits at the low end; VG-10 (~1.0%) is a common mid-range; SG2 (1.25–1.45%) and ZDP-189 (~3.0%) represent high and extreme ends respectively.
    C
    1.0%
    Cr Chromium 13.0%
    Raises corrosion resistance; 13%+ qualifies steel as stainless. Also improves hardenability and wear resistance. In kitchen use, higher chromium levels contribute to a slight drag or sticking sensation when cutting — a trade-off for the rust resistance it provides.
    Cr
    13.0%
    Mn Manganese 0.7%
    Aids hardenability and strength. Acts as a deoxidiser during smelting. Excess can reduce toughness.
    Mn
    0.7%
    Si Silicon 0.35%
    Strengthens the steel matrix and acts as a deoxidiser. Improves hardness and resistance to oxidation.
    Si
    0.35%
    P Phosphorus 0.03%
    Impurity from the smelting process. Even small amounts cause brittleness — steelmakers keep this as low as possible.
    P
    0.03%
    S Sulfur 0.02%
    Impurity that reduces toughness and promotes brittleness. Intentionally added only in free-machining steels.
    S
    0.02%
    C — Carbon Cr — Chromium Mn — Manganese Si — Silicon P — Phosphorus S — Sulfur
    Hardness 60–62 HRC
    555759616365+
    Steel
    Ginsan / Silver #3
    Category
    Stainless
    Manufacturer
    Hitachi Special Steel, Japan 🇯🇵
    Hardness
    60–62 HRC
    Steel

    Ginsan / Silver #3

    • Manufacturer
      • Hitachi Special Steel, Japan
    • Nature Stainless
    • Hardness60–62 HRC
    Ginsan steel, also known as Silver 3 or G3 steel, is a type of stainless steel used in high-quality kitchen knives. It is appreciated for its ability to offer the traditional feel and sharpness of carbon steel while providing the corrosion resistance of stainless steel. Ginsan steel contains a moderate amount of carbon, chromium, and other alloying elements that ensure a good balance between edge retention and ease of sharpening. This steel is particularly favored for its fine grain structure, which allows for a very sharp edge, and its resistance to rust makes it a popular choice among professional chefs and home cooks who seek the performance of carbon steel without the maintenance challenges. Ginsan steel knives are known for their durability, ease of care, and excellent cutting performance, making them a preferred option for those looking for high-quality stainless steel cutlery.
    Construction: Nimai - Stainless Clad
    Construction

    Nimai - Stainless Clad

    Nimai(Two Piece) is the Japan's traditional approach to the kitchen knife making, this construction method is typically found on knives with native Japanese origins like Yanagiba, Deba and Usuba. When constructing a Nimai knife, a piece of soft cladding metal will be placed onto a core steel, the two pieces of metal are then forgewelded and shaped into the knife.

    The Nimai knives are usually sharpened in single-bevel fashion, with hardened core steel exposed on the flat/hollow-ground side and soft cladding warping over the other side and over the spin. The soft cladding offers support for the harder yet more brittle core steel so the knive can have a thin, sharp edge while have some overall strength. Since the single bevel Japanese knives usually don't have a secondary bevel, the combination of soft cladding and hollow-grind have made the sharpening process easier than Monosteel and Honyaki knives.

    In recent years, knifemaker have been trying to utilize stainless claddings on the traditional Nimai knives, which were typically forged withcarbon steel. But unlike the Sanmai construction, the core steel will still be exposed on the hollow-ground side even the stainless cladding can protect the other side. The Stainless Clad Nimai knives seen on the market now would typically use a stainless core to pair with the stainless cladding, making the Nimai and traditional single bevel knives much more approachable for users who are interested in them.

    Finish: Kasumi
    Finish

    Kasumi

    A Kasumi finish refers to a traditional Japanese blade-finishing technique used on knives, particularly those made from a combination of soft iron and harder steel. The term "Kasumi" means "mist" in Japanese, aptly describing the hazy, matte appearance achieved on the blade's bevel where the two metals meet. This effect is not only aesthetic but also showcases the craftsmanship involved in blending these materials, highlighting the skill in creating a knife that is both beautiful and functional.

    Handle
    Handle

    Handle Specs

    • Profile Octagonal WA
    • Material
      • Wenge

    Octagonal wenge wood handles on kitchen knives offer a combination of functionality and aesthetics tailored specifically for culinary tasks. Crafted from durable wenge wood, these handles ensure longevity and resilience to the rigors of kitchen use, standing up to moisture, heat, and frequent handling. The octagonal shape isn't just about style; it's designed to fit comfortably in the hand, providing a secure grip and optimal control, enhancing the user's culinary precision.

    In the kitchen, where attention to detail is paramount, the ergonomic design of the wenge wood handle becomes particularly advantageous. Whether slicing, chopping, or mincing ingredients, the handle's comfortable grip minimizes hand fatigue and enables the chef to maintain a steady hand for consistent and precise cuts.

    Visually, the dark hue and distinct grain pattern of wenge wood add a touch of elegance to any kitchen knife. The natural beauty of the wood complements the blade, creating a striking contrast that elevates the overall aesthetic appeal of the knife.

    Furthermore, the balance achieved by the octagonal shape of the handle enhances the knife's maneuverability, allowing for smooth and controlled cutting motions. This balance is essential for achieving uniform slices and enhancing the overall user experience in the kitchen.

    In summary, a wenge wood handle on a kitchen knife combines durability, comfort, and style, making it a practical and visually appealing choice for home cooks and professional chefs alike.

    1 / 5

    You May Also Like