Hatsukokoro Shinkiro AS Kurouchi Damascus Gyuto 210mm

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Shinkiro (蜃気楼) translates to mirage, and this knife lives up to its name - visually captivating, deceptively powerful, and crafted with precision. Forged by Takahiro Nihei, a rising star from Fukushima and former apprentice at Yoshikane Hamono, the Shinkiro is a testament to both artistry and performance.

This knife features an Aogami Super core clad in soft iron damascus, finished with a striking kurouchi finish. While most Damascus knives are fully polished to reveal their layered beauty, the Shinkiro opts for contrast: a rugged, matte kurouchi melts into a swirling, organic damascus bevel, culminating in a mirror-polished core. It’s a blade that evokes a mirage shimmering above sun-scorched ground - earthy, fluid, and ethereal.

Performance-wise, the Shinkiro inherits the Sanjo-style geometry Nihei-san is known for: a thick, confident heel, fast taper, and thin grind behind the edge. It glides through ingredients with precision and retains its edge exceptionally well thanks to the Aogami Super steel core. While the core and soft iron cladding are fully reactive, the Kurouchi finish provides partial protection from oxidation.

Hand-forged, acid-etched, and meticulously finished, this is a knife that doesn’t just look stunning - it works hard. For those who value craftsmanship, aesthetics, and cutting performance, the Shinkiro is a compelling choice without the price tag of its more premium siblings.

Carbon steel requires attentive care - wipe dry between uses and oil regularly to prevent rust.

Blade Type: Gyuto
Core: Aogami Super (Blue Super) Carbon Steel
Cladding: Iron Cladding
Handle: Stablised Birch Octagonal Handle
Spine Thickness at Heel: 4.3mm
Blade Height at Heel: 4.8mm
HRC: 63 - 64
Weight: 213g
Blade Length: 216mm
Overall Length: 365mm