Hatsukokoro Kuronami Blue #2 Kurouchi Iron Clad 165mm Santoku

The Kuronami (黒波, Black Wave)

Hatsukokoro’s latest addition to the entry-level carbon steel market. Hatsukokoro brings together expert blacksmiths, sharpeners, and handle makers to ensure every knife meets the highest standards of craftsmanship. Their dedication to precision and detail means you're not just getting a knife—you’re investing in a trusted workhorse.

Designed as an accessible alternative to the Kokugei line, it features a Blue #2 core instead of Blue #1, paired with a refined Kurouchi finish. This steel offers a razor-sharp edge with slightly improved durability and rust resistance over White steel—though proper care is still essential.

True to its name, the Black Wave boasts a hazy, wave-like finish that runs along the bevel from tip to heel, adding a unique visual element. The glossy Kurouchi coating, with a subtle teal tint, not only enhances aesthetics but also offers a level of surface protection. A tapered spine ensures a comfortable grip, and the edge geometry delivers excellent food penetration, allowing for smooth, precise cuts. However, due to the finish and lack of advanced food-release geometry, some ingredients—like potatoes and carrots—may stick to the blade.

While the pricing is beginner-friendly, it does come with trade-offs. Expect some visible grind marks near the choiland an unevenly polished bevel, which is common at this price point. However, the cutting performance remains solid, making this a straightforward, no-frills carbon steel knife with character.

If you're new to carbon steel and want to experience its cutting potential without breaking the bank, the Kuronami line is a solid alternative to the Kokugei series. It delivers strong performance with an eye-catching aesthetic, making it an excellent entry point into the world of handcrafted Japanese knives.

• Origin (Made in): Tosa, Japan 
• Brand: Hatsukokoro
• Knife Type: Santoku
  
• Blade
  • Construction: San-Mai
  • Grind: Double-edged Blade (50/50 Grind)
  • Hagane (Core Steel): Aogami 2 ( Blue no2)
    
  • Hardness: 61-62 HRC
    
  • Hand-forged, hand-ground, hand-sharpened
• Blade Finishes:
  
  • Kurouchi
    
• Blade Length : 165mm
• Blade Height (at heel): 44mm 
• Spine Thickness
  • Above heel: 4mm 
  • Tip: 1.2mm 
    
• Handle
  
  • Full Ebony Octagonal
    
• Weight: 148g 

**Care Instructions:**  

Aogami #2 (Blue #2) is a premium high-carbon Japanese steel renowned for its sharpness and edge retention. However, it is not stainless, so the blade must be thoroughly dried after each use—especially the exposed core steel beyond the stainless cladding. Over time, a natural patina will form along the cutting edge, appearing as slight discoloration. This is a normal characteristic of carbon steel, not a flaw, and can even help protect the blade from rust.  

The iron cladding, which covers much of the blade, reduces maintenance and it will still rust. So make sure to wipe it dry after use and apply a layer of oil ( our kurobara oil or any neutral oil ) at the end of the day before storing it. To maintain the blade’s edge and its lifespan, avoid chopping it on bones and frozen foods.