Best Guaranteed Shigeki Tanaka R2 Damascus Nakiri with Stabilised Maplewood Handle

First Impressions

While you may be drawn by the looks initially, Tanaka san has also created an excellent knife that’s evenly ground and impressively sharp out of the box.

We’d expect as much from a highly experienced master blacksmith and the edge retention offered by the hard R2 steel will ensure good performance between honing and sharpening.

Beauty

If looks are important then you’re going to love this range. From the traditional kiri wood presentation box* the knife arrives in to the beautifully exposed layering along the length of the blade, each knife is completely unique and you’ll enjoy looking at it as much as using it.

In Hand

Fitted as standard with a traditional teak and black buffalo wood octagonal wa handle the knife is nimbleand well balanced. Some knives in this collection are also available with custom full-tang stabilised maple handles as well.

Durability

Hardened toapproximately 62-63HRC, the R2 steel used in the core and cutting edge of the knife will have excellent edge retention while being reasonably easy to sharpen and maintain.

Ease of Care

Caring for the knife and maintaining its sharpness is as easy as rinsing and drying after use and periodically honing it with aceramic rodto keep the edge in top condition.

We do also recommend you store it on a knife block or rack if possible.

Our Verdict

The R2 is some of Tanaka san’s finest work and a real treat to use in the kitchen. Every unique pattern on the knives is beautiful and the performance is excellent and we feel that this is a range well worth looking at for any keen home chef or knife collector.

* Please note the wooden presentation box is only available for theknives in this range where included in photographs. Other knives are shipped with a standard card storage/presentation box.