Minonokuni Aogami Black 170mm Santoku

Authentic Japanese Kurouchi Blacksmithing Meets Hitachi Blue Steel Cutting Authority

Master daily produce, meat, and fish preparation with an ultra-fine 50/50 double bevel forged for uncompromising edge retention.

Crafted in the historic cutlery hub of Seki, Japan, the Minonokuni Aogami Black 170mm Santoku delivers relentless slicing capability built around genuine Hitachi Ao-Gami (Blue Paper Steel). Unlike softer, mass-produced stainless knives that crush delicate ingredients, this Santoku features a pure carbon core hardened to hold an acute, toothy edge through dense crates of root vegetables, firm proteins, and tender aromatics without wedging or tearing.

The term santoku translates directly to 'three virtues,' signifying proficiency across slicing, dicing, and mincing. At 170mm (6.7 inches), this blade strikes the balance between agile board maneuvering in tight kitchen workspaces and sufficient flat cutting edge to power through prep lists. The traditional Kurouchi (black-forged) protective scale leaves an unpolished, rustic carbon finish along the upper blade flats, adding natural food release characteristics and partial protection against oxidation while highlighting authentic blacksmith heritage.

Because this blade is non-stainless carbon steel, it develops a deep, stable blue-gray patina that reflects your cooking journey. Whether you are portioning boneless poultry, cross-cutting leeks, or brunoising shallots, the Minonokuni Aogami Santoku offers direct tactile feedback that allows you to cut faster with less hand fatigue.