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Minonokuni Knives
Authentic Japanese blades (hochoes) hand-forged using traditional Japanese methods of old-world craftsmanship; Minonokuni knives are part of a project designed to preserve and protect the master/apprentice relationship. Even as demand for Japanese knives has grown; the skilled masters are aging, and it has been difficult to keep apprentices. While the methods of construction mastered over the centuries have changed very little, the methods of bringing the pieces to market is dramatically different. Then Knife Merchant was asked to assist by bringing knives from various masters in different types of material to market, so that the craftsmen can concentrate on their work and keep the apprentice fully employed, without the burden of stopping production to make sales. Minonokuni is the name of a prefecture (state) that existed in the days of the Samurai. It encompassed a wide area including Seki-City and Sakai, which are the areas of Japan in which our craftsmen are making these blades. This is why we have chosen this as a brand name to represent these knives. You will find the quality to be far superior to comparable material types. When the knife maker has his name on the blade (instead of working for a company), there is greater pride and care taken in little details that make a great difference in final quality. Minonokuni knives are now available in a variety of grades to suit every need and price point.
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Minonokuni Homura 210mm Ao-Ko Wa-Gyuto
The Minonokuni Homura 210mm Gyuto is a beautiful, hand-crafted artisan knife. This knife has an Ao-Ko, Blue, Carbon steel core that has been sandwiched in Stainless Steel for rust resistance and ease of care. Hand-hammered and forged in the traditional sword-making methods this is a true craftsman work of art. Learn More$330.00 -
Minonokuni Homura 240mm Ao-Ko Wa-Gyuto
The Minonokuni Homura 240mm Ao-Ko Wa-Gyuto is a meticulously handcrafted Japanese chef’s knife built for exceptional sharpness, balance, and everyday reliability. At its core is Blue Steel (Ao-Ko), renowned for taking a razor edge and holding it through extensive prep work. To make maintenance easier, the blade is jacketed in stainless steel, reducing the risk of rust while still delivering the cutting performance of high-carbon steel. Its traditional wa-handle pairs warm Sandalwood with a dense, durable Blackwood ferrule, offering a comfortable, secure grip and a refined aesthetic. The 240mm profile provides excellent versatility—ideal for slicing, chopping, dicing, and precision cuts across proteins and vegetables. Combining artisanal forging with user-friendly design, the Homura Ao-Ko Wa-Gyuto is a standout tool for both professional chefs and serious home cooks seeking tradition, performance, and ease of care. Learn More -
Minonokuni Homura 170mm Ao-Ko Santoku
Unleash your culinary potential with the Minonokuni Homura 170mm Santoku, a masterpiece of form and function forged in the heart of Japan's legendary knife-making tradition. The name "Homura," meaning flame, perfectly captures the fiery spirit and passion invested in each blade, creating a tool that is as beautiful as it is powerful. This is more than just a kitchen knife; it's an extension of the chef's hand, designed for those who appreciate precision, quality, and the art of cooking. Learn More$230.00 -
Minonokuni Homura 170mm Ao-Ko Nakiri
The Minonokuni Homura 170 mm (6.9 inch) nakiri construction consists of a matte stainless steel jacket welded to a core of Blue 2 carbon steel. This leaves only the exposed edge requiring the special care needed for carbon steel and creates a beautiful two-tone design as the exposed carbon steel develops a patina. Should the stainless steel become scratched or marred over time, it is easily restored using fine 0000 steel wool or synthetic pad. The blade is sharpened 50/50 and the oval sandalwood handle and blackwood ferrule are suitable for either left or right handed users. Primarily used as an all-purpose vegetable knife, the nakiri is a more durable version of an usuba due to the double grind. Learn More -
Minonokuni Homura Blue/Stainless 150mm Petty
Minonokuni Homura Blue/Stainless 150mm Petty Learn More
