The Evolution of Honbazuke in Kitchen Knives: Differences in Demand between Professionals and General Consumers

Welcome to the artful realm of Japanese kitchen knives, where the tradition of "Honbazuke" sharpening intertwines with the craftsmanship of culinary tools. This age-old practice, once a staple among chefs, has evolved, mirroring the changing tides of culinary preferences. Join us as we explore the journey from the unsharpened beginnings of these esteemed blades to their transformation into indispensable culinary companions.

The Evolution of Professional Kitchen Knives

Originally, professional kitchen knives were commonly sold without an edge, a tradition rooted in the custom of "Honbazuke." This practice involved purchasing a new knife and personally honing it to suit one's preferences.

The Professional's Perspective

Professionals, in particular, harbored a strong preference for sharpening their own knives. They were averse to the idea of having their tools pre-sharpened by blacksmiths or retailers, valuing the personal touch in preparing their blades.

Changing Trends

Over time, however, the landscape has shifted. The art of personal knife sharpening has seen a decline among professionals, leading to an unexpected trend: complaints from individuals surprised to find their new knives blunt upon purchase—a direct result of the traditional no-edge practice.

Blacksmiths' Response

In response to this feedback, blacksmiths began to adapt. They started to provide knives with standard edges—slightly obtuse but capable of cutting effectively. This approach allowed users who desire a personalized edge to easily modify their knives, while also ensuring that the knife remains usable straight from purchase.

The Edge Consideration

Despite this adaptation, the knives are still crafted with the intention of user customization. The edges are sharpened to a competent level but not to the pinnacle of sharpness, maintaining the balance between immediate usability and customization potential.

A Note for Veteran Professionals

It's important to note that true professional-grade knives, the ones cherished and used by seasoned chefs, continue to be offered without an initial edge. This practice honors the traditional values of personalization and the deep connection between the chef and their tools.

Related websites
KIREAJI: Honbazuke