Tosa Aogami Super Santoku (Kurouchi Finish)
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Specs
Type: Santoku
Blade Length: 170mm
Steel: Aogami Super (青超鋼) – high-carbon tool steel by Hitachi
Construction: San-mai (Aogami Super core clad in soft iron)
Finish: Kurouchi (black forge scale)
Bevel: 50/50
Handle: Octagonal walnut with pakkawood ferrule
Weight: 180g
Origin: Likely Tosa (Kōchi Prefecture, Japan)
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Description
This Santoku carries the unmistakable feel of a hand-forged Japanese blade — rustic, powerful, and full of character.
The kanji stamp 青超鋼 tells you everything you need to know: forged from Aogami Super Steel, the top of Hitachi’s Blue Paper lineup, prized for its razor edge, edge retention, and heat treatment potential.
Each cut glides with that crisp, confident feel you only get from fine Japanese carbon steel. The kurouchi finish preserves a hint of the forge, giving the blade natural oxidation resistance while showing off a traditional, workhorse aesthetic.
Perfect for chefs who appreciate a no-nonsense blade that means business — laser cuts, long edge life, and a patina that tells its story over time.
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Performance
Expect stellar edge retention, easy touch-ups on whetstones, and excellent food release thanks to the kurouchi texture.
Aogami Super delivers that fine-grained bite — ideal for everything from herbs and onions to protein prep.
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Care Notes
This is a reactive carbon steel knife. Keep it dry between uses and oil lightly if stored for longer periods.
With regular care, it will form a unique patina that adds both beauty and protection.
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OKM Notes
Originally purchased from Ai & Om Knives (Vancouver) for around $450 CAD, this piece comes from one of their Tosa-forged Aogami Super runs — the kind of simple, honest craftsmanship that outperforms its clean aesthetic.
