Latest Katsushige Anryu Anryu Knives Aogami Santoku

First Impressions

Aogami blue #2 steel, is considered a very tough steel, not quite as hard as super blue but not as brittle which gives you the perfect knife if you don’t want to spend a long time sharpening it.

These are very sharp out of the box for the average user but if you want to take them to the stones you can achieve a sharper edge still.

Beauty

They are beautiful. The hammer marks really give a sense of how the knife was made, in a hot forge by a blacksmith rather than a pristine machine. The handles are quite understated leaving all the cooing to be done over the blade!

Please note that newer knives in the range have an octagonal shaped handle not an oval one.

In Hand

A classic walnut and black buffalo wa handle offers a light and comfortable grip making for a nimble and well balanced knife.

Please note: These knives are supplied with either an oval or octagonal shaped handle and availability of a specific shape isn’t possible to guarantee so the handle fitted is what is available at the time. If you’d like to double check which is fitted before ordering, please contact us.

Durability

Aogami blue #2 is considered a very tough and durable steel, the steel doesn’t get as hard as super blue so not as brittle. As is normal with all our knives, treat it with care and it will last a lifetime.

Ease of Care

The core steel in these knives is carbon which is reactive but with the stainless steel cladding you don’t need to worry much. The only part of the carbon core that is exposed is on the edge of the blade. This will patina over time but gives the knife a lovely unique look and in our eyes, becomes part of its history.

All you need to do is wipe, dry and store, don’t put it in the dishwasher and don’t leave it sat around in the wet. Keep the edge in tip top condition with a go on the ceramic rod every few weeks and every now and again take it to the stones.

Our Verdict

The blue #2 steel coupled with the great fit and finish makes these knives absolute winners in our eyes. The reputation regarding performance that goes before them makes the price hard to believe.