Yoshida Utility SUJ-2 Kuro-uchi 175mm (6.9″) [Rosewood-Beechwood/Oval]

The Kuro-uchi Utility is a medium-sized kitchen knife suitable for all types of cutting tasks. This knife is so versatile that it can be used both as a main multi-purpose knife, as well as a knife for smaller tasks. Kuro-uchi knives are traditional Japanese knives made by the Yoshida Hamono smithy in southern Japan. The name Kuro-uchi refers to the appearance of the blade, which is raw on top and has already developed a dark patina that protects the blade. Because of their traditional look, hard steel, and incredible performance, they are ideal for first-time buyers of carbon steel Japanese knives. 

BLADE SHAPE:
The Utility Knife is an essential tool in any kitchen. With a medium-sized blade that’s narrower than a chef’s knife but wider than a paring knife, it can effortlessly handle a wide range of tasks. Whether you want to slice and dice or cut and trim, this knife bridges the gap between larger and smaller blades. It is ideal for everyday cooking needs because of its manageable size and precise control. Whether you’re working with vegetables, fruits, or meats, the adaptability of the utility knife makes it a top choice for both professional chefs and home cooks who are looking for a reliable and versatile tool in the kitchen.

STEEL:
The blade is forged from SUJ-2 steel, which offers impressive capabilities. With a hardness of 63-64 HRC, it stays sharp for a very long time, but at the same time is easy to resharpen.

❗ Because SUJ-2 steel does not contain a lot of chromium, such a blade will develop patina during use. The advantage of this steel, however, is that it has a very fine, gentle sharpness, is easy to sharpen and stays sharp for a very long time. Ballistol or Camellia oil is recommended for the care of such blades.

GEOMETRY:
It has a double bevel (symmetrical) blade.

BLADE FINISH:
The blade has a dark finish which is the reason this look is also called kuro-uchi – the word “kuro” means black. This look is traditional and robust, with an unprocessed top part of the blade that has already developed a dark patina.

HANDLE:
We added a traditional Japanese Wa handle made of rosewood with a beech wood ferrule. The handle is oval, so it’s suitable for both right and left-handed users. The weight of the handle is matched to the weight of the blade. This makes the knife perfectly balanced.

ABOUT THE BLACKSMITH:
The knife is manufactured at the smithy of Yoshida Hamono in Japan, a family company with an age-long tradition in manufacturing state-of-the-art tools and Japanese swords, i.e., katanas, by hand. Yoshida Hamono has a great deal of experience forging ZDP-189 steel in the traditional manner.