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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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Shun Classic Blonde Nakiri
Shun Classic Blonde Nakiri: The Ultimate Vegetable Prep Master The razor-sharp edge, forged from Shun's high-performance VG-MAX steel, makes dicing onions, slicing carrots, or mincing herbs feel effortless. Beautifully layered Damascus steel not only gives the blade its signature look but also helps food glide off easily. The elegant "Blonde" PakkaWood® handle provides a comfortable, secure grip for fatigue-free prep. While its specialty is greens, this Nakiri is also ideal for cutting proteins from which the bones have already been removed. Experience the blend of exquisite Japanese craftsmanship and practical performance with the Shun Classic Blonde Nakiri. Learn More$189.95 -
Shun Kanso 6.5-inch HG Nakiri (SWT0728)
Precision Engineering for High-Volume Vegetable Prep Stop 'accordioning' your vegetables. The Shun Kanso Nakiri combines a flat, razor-sharp 16° edge with high-carbon AUS10A steel to deliver perfect push-cuts through 40 lbs of daily prep. Unlike standard curved knives that require a rocking motion, the Kanso Nakiri is designed for the high-efficiency push-cut. This vertical technique ensures that every slice goes completely through the vegetable, ending the frustration of pieces remaining attached by a thread. Constructed for those who prioritize rugged performance over decorative finishes, the 'Heritage' blade finish masks the inevitable scratches of a busy kitchen, making it a favorite for line cooks at vegetable-heavy stations. The solid AUS10A steel is enriched with Vanadium, providing an edge that bites through waxy pepper skins and dense tubers without hesitation. The handle is crafted from Tagayasan (Iron Sword Wood), a material historically prized for its density and durability. This isn't just an aesthetic choice; the wood is naturally moisture-resistant and provides a secure, ergonomic grip that maintains comfort during long shifts. Integrated hollow-ground indentations create air pockets between the steel and the food, allowing starchy vegetables like potatoes or squash to slide off the blade rather than sticking, significantly increasing your workflow speed. This is a tool for the chef who views their knife as an extension of their hand, requiring a balance of extreme sharpness and industrial-grade toughness. Learn More$144.95 -
Shun Premier 5.5-inch Nakiri Knife
The Shun Premier 5.5-inch Nakiri is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife designed for clean, efficient, and beautiful vegetable preparation. The name "Nakiri" translates to "leaf cutter," reflecting its purpose. The blade features a straight edge and a squared-off tip, a shape designed to make full contact with the cutting board in a simple push-cut motion, ensuring that vegetables are cut completely through without needing to be pulled or torn apart. This design is ideal for creating extremely thin, uniform slices and makes quick work of everything from leafy greens to root vegetables. The hand-hammered finish reduces drag and helps food release from the blade, while the wide, flat surface is perfect for scooping and transferring chopped ingredients. It is the ultimate tool for anyone who loves preparing vegetables. This knife is particularly well-suited for tasks such as: Slicing: Creating paper-thin slices of cucumber, zucchini, or onions. Chopping: Effortlessly chopping through dense vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes. Mincing: Finely mincing garlic and herbs with a simple up-and-down motion. Julienning: Making precise, uniform vegetable strips for salads and stir-fries. Shredding: Quickly shredding lettuce and cabbage. Learn MoreRegular Price: $204.95
Special Price $163.95
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Shun Classic 6.5" (165mm) Nakiri Vegetable Knife
The Shun Classic 6.5 in. (165mm) Nakiri is the ultimate vegetable knife. The long, flat edge of the nakiri makes full contact with the cutting board in every cut, which improves your speed and greatly increases your efficiency in the kitchen. This is a great choice for anyone who like to tap chop. I especially like this knife shape for herbs, green onions, and mirepoix vegetables (celery, onions and carrots). You can use a nakiri to slice meat that has already been removed from the bone, but despite its similarity in appearance, this is not a cleaver. This knife really shines when preparing salad or stir-fry - you'll enjoy this blade tremendously, particularly when you have a lot of produce to process. Shun's VG-MAX steel holds an edge extremely well, which can be especially important when you're chopping as this cutting motion dulls a blade more quickly than your typical rocking cuts. Honing is not necessary, but if you like to maintain your knife with a steel we recommend paring this knife with a ceramic rod. Learn More$189.95
