Hatsukokoro Nakagawa Ginsan #3 Kiritsuke 210MM

Being acknowledged as one of the top 5 blacksmiths in Japan

Satoshi Nakagawa has embarked on a remarkable journey from apprentice to master knifemaker. Under the guidance of the esteemed artisan Kenichi Shiraki, Nakagawa refined his skills to perfection. Transitioning from Shiraki's apprentice to establishing his own workshop, Nakagawa Hamono, marks a significant milestone in his career.

The Hatsukokoro brand, especially the Ginsan 3, epitomizes Nakagawa's commitment to craftsmanship and excellence. Its reputation for exceptional hardness and edge retention in Japanese knife making is a testament to the meticulous attention to detail evident in his work.

A standout characteristic of Nakagawa's Hatsukokoro is the exquisite engraving "登録 初心" (Trademark Hatsukokoro). This hand-engraved signature boasts a font of unparalleled beauty within its price category. The Ginsan Gyuto is expertly ground to a tapered profile from spine to edge, achieving a satisfying thinness behind the edge that some may liken to a "laser." Its smoothly rounded heel ensures comfort for your fingers. 

Fashioned from Silver3 stainless steel, renowned for its sharpness and excellent edge retention yet ease of sharpening, this series sharpened by Morihio San, a revered sharpener in Sakai, these knives boast unparalleled quality.

Featuring a stunning octagonal Wa handle crafted from Ebony, the Gyuto, which translates to "Beef knife" in Japanese, is the quintessential Japanese equivalent of the classic western Chef's knife. Versatile and adaptable, it serves as a multi-purpose tool suitable for slicing meat, fish, vegetables, and more, accommodating various cutting techniques.

What is Ginsan 3

Ginsan (also known as Gin3 or Silver #3) epitomizes the fusion of stainless steel with carbon elements, enriched by a 14% Chromium infusion. While preserving the quintessential traits of Japanese carbon steel, boasting a hardness akin to Shirogami #2, Ginsan distinguishes itself by its stainless nature. Although its edge retention may marginally trail that of Shirogami #2, its unique amalgamation of effortless sharpening, carbon steel essence, and stainless resilience renders it an exemplary option for aficionados seeking a Japanese carbon steel knife that demands minimal upkeep.

• Made from : Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, Japan
• Brand: Hatsukokoro
• Workshop: Nakagawa Hamono
• Craftsman: Satoshi Nakagawa
• Knife Type: Kiritsuke
• Blade
  • Construction: San Mai
  • Grind: Double-edged Blade (50/50 Grind)
  • Hagane (Core Steel): Ginsan (Silver #3)
  • Jigane (Cladding): Stainless Steel
  • Hardness: 60-61 HRC
  • Hand-forged, hand-ground, hand-sharpened
• Blade Finishes: Kasumi Polish
• Blade Length: 210mm 
• Blade Height (at heel): 47mm
• Spine Thickness
  • Above heel: 3.1mm
  • Middle: 2.4mm
• Handle : Shape: Full Ebony (Octagonal)
• Overall Length: 346mm
• Weight: 170g 
• Engraved Mark (Front): In Japanese Kanji "Trademark Hatsukokoro" (登録 初心)
• Engraved Mark (Back): In Japanese Kanji "Nakagawa Made Silver #3" (中川作 銀三)