Hatsukokoro Ryusui AO2 Damascus Gyuto 240mm (Blade Only)
The Workshop (Knife Builder)
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SPECIFICATIONS
Knife Style: Gyuto
Steel Type: Carbon Steel
Blade Material: Aogami Blue #2
Blade Finish: Blasted Nashiji Style with Damascus
Blade Hardness: 62HRC (+/-1)
Bevel: Double
Handle: None ➛ Choose yours
Blade Length: 240mm
Heel Height: 50mm
Spine Thickness: 2.90mm tapered to 2.20mm
Weight: 135g
Few makers have a visual identity as recognizable as Nigara Hamono. With roots stretching back centuries in Aomori, Japan, their knives have become known for blending traditional forging techniques with finishes and details that stand apart from the crowd.
This particular piece captures that philosophy beautifully. The blasted Nashiji finish creates a subtle textured appearance that feels both refined and handcrafted, while the Damascus pattern beneath adds depth and movement throughout the blade. Depending on the light, the layers reveal themselves differently, giving the knife a character that continues to evolve every time it's picked up.
What truly defines the feel of this knife, however, is its geometry. The spine maintains a healthy amount of forged thickness through much of the blade before gradually tapering toward the tip. Rather than creating an ultra-light laser feel, this approach leaves a touch more mass toward the front of the knife, resulting in a pleasant forward balance that many cooks find incredibly natural during longer prep sessions.
That weight distribution gives the blade a confident presence on the board. It feels stable through dense vegetables, proteins, and larger ingredients, allowing the knife's momentum to do some of the work while still maintaining excellent control. Combined with the refined edge geometry, the result is a knife that cuts with authority without ever feeling heavy-handed.
Like many of Nigara's finest pieces, it strikes a balance between performance and visual appeal. Handmade, beautifully finished, and unmistakably forged, it's the kind of knife that feels just as rewarding to use as it is to admire.
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!
