Masahiro Virgin Carbon 6.5-inch (165mm) Nakiri Vegetable Knife

The Masahiro Virgin Carbon 165mm Nakiri is a specialized tool designed for those who prioritize a refined edge over the convenience of stainless steel. In hands-on testing, the first thing a chef notices is the weight distribution; at 1.85mm at the spine, it feels remarkably nimble, allowing for rapid 'tap-chopping' without hand fatigue. The 'Virgin Carbon' steel used here is an exceptionally pure alloy, devoid of the large chromium carbides found in stainless knives. This results in a grain structure that takes a toothy, aggressive edge that bites into waxy pepper skins and dense root vegetables with minimal resistance.


When handling this Nakiri, the asymmetrical grind becomes its defining characteristic. Unlike a standard 50/50 bevel, this blade is optimized for right-handed users to push food away from the blade as it cuts, preventing the suction that often slows down prep work. You will notice the steel begin to develop a blue-grey patina after the first few onions or proteins—this is the mark of high-quality carbon steel. While it requires immediate drying to prevent oxidation, the tradeoff is a knife that is significantly easier to hone on a 6000-grit waterstone than any Western equivalent. The flat profile ensures full contact with the cutting board, eliminating the 'accordion' vegetable strands that often occur with curved chef's knives.


SKU: MH13035

Availability: In stock

$99.25
  • Details

    Product Specs & Technical Highlights

    • Steel Composition: Proprietary Virgin Carbon Steel (Non-Stainless)
    • Hardness: 61 Rockwell (HRC) for extended edge life
    • Blade Length: 165mm (6.5 inches)
    • Spine Thickness: 1.85mm at the heel
    • Edge Geometry: Asymmetrical/Compound Grind (optimized for right-handed use)
    • Handle Construction: Black Stamina Wood (Resin-impregnated wood in polycarbonate)
    • Weight: Approximately 160g (Balanced at the pinch point)
    • Manufacturing Location: Seki, Gifu Prefecture, Japan
    • SKU: MH13035 / 13035

    Practical Applications & Handling

    • Vegetable Specialty: The flat edge is specifically designed for the 'push-cut' and 'chopping' motions required for bulky vegetables like cabbage and squash.
    • Precision Slicing: Ideal for creating 'Katsuramuki' (long, paper-thin sheets) from cucumbers or daikon.
    • Weight & Balance: The lightweight nature of this blade makes it a favorite for high-volume prep shifts where heavy knives cause wrist strain.

    Care and Maintenance Protocol

    • Reactive Steel Warning: This is NOT a stainless steel knife. It will rust if left wet. You must wash and dry the blade immediately after every use.
    • Patina Development: Expect the blade to change color (patina). This is a natural protective layer and is not a defect.
    • Sharpening: We recommend using traditional Japanese waterstones. The asymmetrical edge requires a 70/30 or 80/20 sharpening ratio to maintain factory performance.
    • Storage: Use a wooden saya or blade guard. For long-term storage, apply a light coat of food-grade camellia oil (Tsubaki oil).

    Additional Info

    Blade Length (Inches) 6.5 in.
    Blade Length (mm) 165 mm
    Blade Width (inches) 1.125
    Grind Asymmetrical/Compound
    Steel Type Virgin Carbon
    Rockwell Hardness 61
    Stainless Yes
    Handle Material Stamina Wood (Black Dyed Pressed Wood in Polycarbonate)
    Spine Thickness (mm) 1.85
    Brand Masahiro
    Country of Manufacture Japan
    SKU MH13035
    Manufacturer's Part Number 13035
    Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price No

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