Isamitsu Knives : Tradition Refined Through Innovation

At Isamitsu Hamono, craftsmanship is not just about preserving tradition — it’s about refining it, evolving it, and breathing new life into it. Led by Yuki Abe-san and Gaku Kanatsu-san, Isamitsu represents a new wave of Japanese knife-making: deeply respectful of the past, yet boldly unafraid to innovate.

Most of you have probably heard of Teruyasu Fujiwara, the legendary blacksmith. These craftsmen were actually his apprentices, and in our opinion, they’re still pushing boundaries—producing some insanely hard Shirogami blades.

Both Abe-san and Kanatsu-san are dedicated to constantly improving their knives, breaking from convention to create blades that are uniquely their own. Unlike many traditional workshops, Isamitsu embraces collaboration, cross-pollinating ideas with other blacksmiths and even welcoming a young woman as an apprentice in 2022 — a rare and progressive move in a traditionally male-dominated craft.

Their style blends the rustic traditions passed down from their former master with new techniques, tweaks, and personal touches. The result is a collection of kitchen knives that are understated yet stunning, humble in appearance but exceptional in performance.

The Shiroichi Series

One of Isamitsu's standout lines is the Shiroichi series, crafted from White #1 carbon steel. These blades feature a bold kurouchi finish — a rough, blackened surface that reflects the blade’s freshly forged origins.

The Shiroichi knives require attentive care to prevent rust, but reward their owners with extraordinary sharpness and an unrivaled cutting feel. In the hand, they feel confident and alive: rustic, yet elegant. Every cut reminds you that you're using something crafted with heart, skill, and vision.

Spec:

• Origin (Made in): Sakuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture , Japan
• Brand: Isamitsu Hamono 安倍勇光打ち刃物
• Craftsman: Yuki Abe
• Knife Type: Kiritsuke Petty
• Blade
  • Construction: San Mai
  • Grind: Double-edged Blade (50/50 Grind)
  • Hagane (Core Steel): Shirogami 1
  • Jigane (Cladding): Stainless Steel
  • Hardness: 63HRC
• Blade Finishes: 
  • Tsuchime (Hammered)
  • Kurouchi
• Blade Length: 135mm 
• Blade Height (at heel): 36mm
• Spine Thickness
  • Above heel: 2.0mm
  • Tip: 1.9mm
• Handle
  •  Octagonal Local Malaysian wood with White horn. 
• Weight: 89g