Discover the Allure of Forged Knives

August 8, 2024

  • The Art of Knives: Why Choose a Forged Knife?

    Forged knives are more than just kitchen tools; they are true works of art. Their unique strength, beauty, and sharpness have won the hearts of professional chefs and home cooking enthusiasts alike. However, the allure of a forged knife goes beyond its appearance. The secret lies in its manufacturing process.

  • What is a Forged Knife?

    A forged knife is crafted using an ancient technique called forging, where metal is heated to high temperatures and repeatedly hammered into shape. This technique has also been used in the making of Japanese swords. Through the forging process, the internal structure of the metal is finely altered, dramatically improving the knife's sharpness and durability.

  • Features of Forged Knives: Unity and Strength

    Forged knives possess a unified and robust structure, thanks to their manufacturing process. This ensures that the blade retains its edge over long periods of use. Additionally, the optimal weight balance provided by the skilled hands of the craftsmen makes the knife incredibly easy to use, reducing hand fatigue even during extended tasks.

  • The Forged Knife Manufacturing Process

  • 1. Material Selection: Choosing the Steel

    The process begins by selecting steel that is suitable for forging. High-carbon steel and stainless steel are commonly used, each with its unique characteristics. High-carbon steel offers sharpness, while stainless steel is resistant to rust and easier to maintain.

    2. Heating and Shaping: Forming the Blade

    The steel is heated to around 1000–1200°C, softened, and then shaped using hammers or presses. This stage forms the basic shape of the blade. There are both traditional hand-forging and machine-forging methods, each offering distinct beauty and qualities.

  • 3. Hardening and Tempering: Balancing Strength and Flexibility

    The forged knife is reheated and rapidly cooled, a process known as hardening, which enhances the blade's hardness and durability. However, overly hard blades can become brittle, so a subsequent process called tempering is carried out by reheating the blade at a controlled temperature and then cooling it again. This adds the necessary flexibility to the knife, improving its impact resistance.

    4. Finishing: The Completion of a Masterpiece

    Finally, the forged knife is polished by hand, giving it a sharp edge and a beautiful finish. This stage determines the knife's final sharpness and aesthetic appeal.

  • Design and Functionality

    The design of forged knives not only prioritizes functionality but also reflects the user’s preferences and cooking style. Traditional Japanese knives, with their unique shapes, are especially well-suited for Japanese cuisine and stand out for their distinctive designs.

  • Conclusion: Embrace the Allure of Forged Knives

    Forged knives are prized for their strength, durability, and beauty, all of which stem from their meticulous manufacturing process. KIREAJI knives are all handcrafted by skilled artisans in Sakai City. Once you experience one of these knives, your cooking will reach new heights, and your time in the kitchen will become more enjoyable. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the world of forged knives.

Manufacturing Process of Japanese Knife

Japanese kitchen knives are made by heating and forging metal, then bonding the blade to the softer iron cladding. In the sharpening process, the blade is first roughly ground, then refined with finer stones, and finally polished with a finishing stone. In the handle construction process, the tang is inserted into the handle, and the brand name is engraved before the knife is packaged. This describes the manufacturing process of a Japanese kitchen knife.

Manufacturing Process of Japanese Knife

Blog Author: Toru

-Professional background-
・Graduated from Tokyo Sushi Academy
・Sushi lesson instructor at Tsukiji Tokyo
・Making sushi at RC Show, one of Canada's largest Toronto food shows

Traditional Japanese knives, like those from Sakai City, are globally prized for their sharpness and elegance. Yet, Sakai's dwindling artisans pose a challenge to preserving this craft. To combat this, I'm dedicated to spreading the brilliance of Japanese knives worldwide. My dream is to sustain Sakai's legacy while meeting global demand.

KIREAJI's Three Promises to You

  • japanese_knife_made_in_Sakai

    1. High-quality Japanese Knive

    We offer knives crafted by craftsmen from Sakai City.

  • Honbazuke

    2. Genuine Sharpness

    To ensure you experience sharpness, we provide a free Honbazuke by our skilled craftsmen.

  • after_service

    3. Lifetime Knife Use

    Every knife comes with a free Saya(Sheath) for durability. We also provide paid after-sales services with Sakai City Japanese knife workshop.