Hinokuni Shirogami #1 Gyuto Knife 180mm Cherry Wood Handle

Experience Shirogami #1 Carbon Steel from a Young Independent Blacksmith in Kumamoto

The Hinokuni Shirogami #1 Gyuto 180mm is hand-forged by Hinokuni-san - a 31-year-old independent blacksmith from Kumamoto prefecture who recently established his own forge after apprenticing under Nishida-san. Shirogami #1 (White #1) carbon steel, San Mai construction, kurouchi finish, cherry oval handle. A knife with genuine provenance and exceptional edge potential.

The Specs

• Maker: Hinokuni (Kumamoto, Japan)
• Steel: Shirogami #1 (White #1) carbon steel core
• Construction: San Mai, hammer forged
• Cladding: Iron
• Finish: Kurouchi (blacksmith's forge finish)
• Edge grind: Even double bevel
• Handle: Cherry oval
• Ferrule: Black resin
• Blade length: 185mm
• Blade height at heel: 68mm
• Spine thickness at heel: 2.8mm
• Weight: 248g

Shirogami #1 - The Purist's Carbon Steel

Shirogami #1 (also known as Shiro-ko or White #1) is one of the purest carbon steel alloys used in Japanese cutlery - almost identical to Aogami #1 except for the absence of chromium and tungsten. That purity translates directly into edge performance: Shirogami #1 takes an extremely fine, keen edge and is exceptionally easy to sharpen on a whetstone. It is highly reactive - a patina will develop quickly with use, which is both normal and protective. The kurouchi finish on the cladding adds character and reduces drag. San Mai construction means the reactive core is protected on the sides by iron cladding, with only the edge exposed. A knife for the cook who wants maximum edge performance and is happy to care for their tools.

Care and Maintenance

• Hand wash only - never dishwasher
• Dry immediately after use - Shirogami #1 is highly reactive and will rust if left wet
• Wipe and dry during use when cutting acidic foods
• Apply a light coat of food-safe oil if storing for extended periods
• Expect a natural patina to develop - this is normal and protective
• Hone regularly with a ceramic rod or leather strop
• Sharpen on a whetstone when needed - Shirogami #1 responds beautifully to fine stones
• Store on a magnetic rack or in a knife block