Vintage Japanese Masamune Yanagiba Knife 200mm Carbon Steel Made in Japan 434

Experience Precise Sashimi Slicing with a Vintage Masamune Yanagiba

This vintage Japanese Masamune Yanagiba knife combines a 200mm carbon steel blade with a wood handle and traditional right-handed single-bevel geometry. Made in Japan, this one-of-a-kind sashimi knife is designed for controlled pull-strokes that preserve the texture and presentation of delicate fish.

The Specs

• Brand marking identified in the existing listing: Masamune (正宗)
• Steel: Carbon steel
• Hardness: 58 HRC
• Blade length: 200mm
• Overall length: 350mm
• Spine thickness: 2.4mm
• Bevel: Single bevel, right-handed
• Construction: Fully forged, full tang
• Handle: Wood
• Weight: Approximately 250g
• Origin: Japan
• Condition: Vintage - one-of-a-kind

Masamune Marking and Japanese Knife Heritage

The original listing identifies the blade marking as Masamune (正宗), a prominent name in Japanese bladesmithing. Its heritage notes reference Kamakura and Sakai as regions associated with traditional blacksmithing, high-carbon steel kitchen knives and tools. These references retain the listing's original brand context; they do not establish this particular knife's workshop or a direct lineage to a historical swordsmith.

The Yanagiba is Japan's dedicated sashimi knife. Its long, thin blade and single-bevel edge support clean pull-strokes for thin slices without tearing. The hollow-ground back helps reduce sticking, allowing a smooth cut surface rather than compressing the fish. Carbon steel develops a natural patina with age and use, while the edge can be restored on Japanese water stones.

Care & Maintenance

• Hand wash only and dry immediately
• Wipe the reactive carbon steel blade dry after every use to help prevent rust
• Sharpen on Japanese water stones, preserving the right-handed single-bevel geometry
• Apply a light coat of food-safe oil before extended storage