Usuba / Nakiri

Usu(Thin)Ba(Knife)

Usuba is a traditional Japanese knife shape with a thick spine and pronounced shinogi line. Characterized by their rectangular shape and utter lack of camber Usuba knives are best used when preparing vegetables. The shape of the Usuba blade and the angle at which the handle is affixed to it allow for a significant degree of knuckle clearance which can be quite helpful when working with larger quantities. It is important to note that Usubas are typically one sided although this definition is not universally applicable and some manufacturers do create double-beveled knives that would indeed qualify as Usubas. The westernized version of an Usuba, which is typically double-beveled and also intended for use on vegetables, is known as a Nakiri. Although many believe the distinction between Usubas and Nakiris to be their one or two sidedness this is not wholly accurate. The key distinction between the two shapes is the thickness of the steel from which they are formed. Despite being named “thin knife” Usubas are thicker than their westernized counterpart the Nakiri.

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  • Wüsthof Classic Ikon 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri

    A precision vegetable knife designed for faster prep, cleaner cuts, and all-day comfort. The Wüsthof Classic Ikon 7-Inch Hollow Edge Nakiri is built for cooks who want maximum efficiency when working with vegetables. Forged in Solingen, Germany, it pairs traditional German craftsmanship with a Japanese-inspired blade shape designed specifically for slicing, dicing, and chopping produce. Unlike the rocking motion of a chef’s knife, the Nakiri’s flat edge is optimized for a vertical push-cut technique. This allows the full length of the blade to contact the board, producing clean, uniform cuts with less effort—whether you’re working through dense root vegetables or delicate herbs. The hollow edge (Kullenschliff) features evenly spaced indentations that create small air pockets during the cut. This reduces sticking and helps ingredients release more cleanly from the blade, improving speed and consistency during repetitive prep. The blade is precision-forged from a single piece of X50CrMoV15 high-carbon stainless steel and hardened to 58 HRC for long-term durability and edge stability. Wüsthof’s PEtec process ensures a consistently sharp edge with excellent retention. What sets the Classic Ikon series apart is its comfort-focused design. The contoured handle and rear bolster shift the balance into the hand, creating a more controlled, less fatiguing feel during extended prep. The half-bolster at the blade allows for a natural pinch grip and enables full-length sharpening from tip to heel.   Best For High-volume vegetable prep where speed and consistency matter Cooks who prefer push-cutting over rocking Slicing, dicing, and chopping fruits, herbs, and vegetables Anyone looking for a more comfortable alternative to traditional chef’s knives Learn More
  • Wusthof Classic 7 in. Hollow Edge Nakiri

    The Wüsthof Classic 7" Hollow Edge Nakiri is a Japanese-inspired vegetable cleaver designed for precision and versatility. Its wide, thin blade glides effortlessly through produce, making it perfect for slicing, dicing, and chopping even larger vegetables with ease. Crafted in Solingen, Germany, and finished with a durable black synthetic handle, this knife delivers exceptional sharpness, balance, and control. A must-have for anyone who values fine, even cuts and reliable performance in the kitchen. Learn More

2 Item(s)

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