Vintage Japanese Tokusei Deba Knife 120mm Carbon Steel 1669

Experience Controlled Small-Fish Preparation with a Vintage Ko-Deba

This pre-owned 120mm Deba, listed as Tokusei, pairs a carbon steel blade with a traditional magnolia wood handle. Its recorded double bevel offers a compact format for small-fish preparation and detailed cutting tasks.

The Specs

• Recorded listing name: Tokusei
• Knife type: Deba / Ko-Deba
• Steel: Carbon steel; exact alloy not recorded
• Recorded hardness: 58 HRC
• Blade length: 120mm
• Overall length: 260mm
• Bevel: Double bevel
• Recorded construction: Fully forged, full tang
• Handle: Magnolia wood
• Recorded knife weight: Approximately 100g
• Origin: Japan
• Condition: Vintage, pre-owned

A Compact Deba for Detailed Work

The original notes describe small-fish preparation, poultry preparation and light butchery uses. Its 120mm blade offers a manageable format for controlled work, with double-bevel geometry distinct from a traditional single-bevel Deba. No blade thickness is recorded, so heavy bone-chopping capability is not assumed. For poultry, work through joints rather than forcing the edge through bones.

Tokusei is retained as the listing name without assigning an unrecorded maker history or production date. Carbon steel can take a keen edge and rewards regular whetstone maintenance, prompt drying and protective oiling. The magnolia wood handle completes the traditional format.

Care & Maintenance

• Hand wash only, never in the dishwasher
• Dry immediately after washing to help prevent rust
• Do not soak the magnolia wood handle
• Apply a light coat of food-safe camellia oil after drying, particularly before storage
• Hone carefully as needed, preserving the existing double-bevel geometry
• Sharpen on a whetstone when needed
• Store in a suitable saya or on a magnetic rack to protect the edge