Hatsukokoro Kaijin Blue 2 Santoku 170mm (Blade Only)
The Workshop (Knife Builder)
Need a visual? Try our newly launched Custom Kitchen Knife Builder — see your blade and handle combination come to life in real time.
Limited Time Offer - Installation Included
For a limited time, when you purchase a blade and handle together, we’ll include our professional in-house installation service free of charge.
SPECIFICATIONS
Knife Style: Santoku
Steel Type: Carbon Steel
Blade Material: Aogami Blue #2
Blade Finish: Migaki (Stainless Clad)
Blade Hardness: 62HRC (+/-1)
Bevel: Double
Handle: None ➛ Choose yours
Blade Length: 170mm
Heel Height: 46mm
Spine Thickness: 1.80mm
Weight: 66g
The Kaijin Series is Hatsukokoro’s answer to the “modern, minimal, and seriously good value” category — a knife that looks clean and simple on the surface, but performs well above its price point. No rustic textures, no unnecessary flash. Just a sharp, streamlined blade that feels light, thin, and ready to work.
Built around an Aogami Blue #2 carbon steel core with stainless cladding, it lands right in that sweet spot between high-end cutting performance and everyday practicality. You get the sharp bite and easy sharpening feel Blue #2 is known for, while the stainless exterior keeps maintenance much simpler. The clean Migaki finish completes the look with a modern, understated feel.
At 170mm, the Santoku is an incredibly versatile size for everyday prep. It gives you enough blade for vegetables, boneless proteins, herbs, and general kitchen work without feeling oversized or cumbersome. The profile offers a comfortable flat section for push-cutting and chopping, with just enough belly toward the front for a natural rocking motion when needed.
Thin, nimble, and easy to control, this is the kind of knife that disappears in the hand and simply gets the job done. For anyone looking for a Japanese carbon steel Santoku with serious performance, low-key styling, and excellent value, the Kaijin is a very easy one to recommend.
Kakushin can handle the blade-to-handle assembly for you at our shop. If you're new to the custom knife world and want to confirm the fit and sizing of a handle with a specific blade, feel free to reach out!
