In the south of Japan, these are called hakatas and they're basically bunka knives. Either way, they are versatile and agile knives capable of tackling all sorts of cutting, chopping, and slicing jobs around the kitchen. They feature a flatter profile than some other chef-style blades and are particularly suited to push cutting techniques rather than rocking styles. The delicate sword tip makes them very useful for small or intricate work like preparing garnishes.
Mr. Tanaka hammer-forged this blade from Blue #2 Steel, also called Aogami #2, which means "Blue Paper" named after the paper that wraps the steel bars when they're delivered to the blacksmiths. It is very good at taking and holding a sharp edge and can be hardened to a higher degree than other steels. A softer jigane is applied to protect and strengthen this hard edge steel and is finished with a nashiji stainless cladding that has a beautiful rustic look.
A traditional octagonal shaped handle makes the package complete and gives the knife a great look.
Brand: Matsubara
Blacksmith: Tanaka San
Location: Nagasaki Japan
Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
Cladding: Stainless
Weight: 5.4oz / 152g
Blade Length: 176 mm
Overall Length: 313 mm
Spine Thickness at Heel: 3.5 mm
Blade Height at Heel: 50.5 mm
Handle Type: Oak Octagonal