Takeshi Saji Urushi & Makie ’Red Fuji' Diamond Damascus R2 Gyuto 240mm

Mika-e lacquere Urushi lacquer art. It is considered as one of the best Urushi form: hand painted by skilled lacqurerware craftsman with gold flakes and exotic materials, the Mika-e lacquerware is often used by royal families and military leaders as a symbol of power. The beautifully crafted handle and friction fit saya matched with Saji's best baldes, is a true fusion of two of the most traditional Japanese art. I am super excited to finally get my handes on a few of these blades!

Takeshi Saji, who is famous for his exceptional work of hunting knives is now also forging some of the best artisan kitchen knives as well. Obtained the highest award of Dento-Kougeishi in 1994, he is the leading bladesmith in the Echizen district. His work is highly artistic, utilizing some of the most exotic traditional skills and materials to perfect his work. For example, he is famous for using the R2/SG2 powder metallurgy steel to forge his high-end blades, which can reach a mighty HRC 64; for handles, he uses rare natural materials like stag bone, and desert ironwood; he also use the traditional Makie Urushi (one of the most exotic traditional Japanese lacquer painting technique, see here) in some of his limited runs.    

I have long wanted one of Saji-san's R2/SG2 blades, way before I get into the knife vending business, but unfortunately when I was ready to buy, everywhere was showing me the "OUT-OF-STOCK", proving it is in a such high demand with limited supply to the market. So the first thing after I started K&S, was to see if I can get some of his blade. Luckily through our strong channel, I was able to finally get some of his "most wanted" blades: R2/SG2 core diamond damascus pattern sanmai blade with desert ironwood handle and VG10 core damascus with stag handle.

K&S is proud to carry Takeshi Saji knife. 

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