Back at it again with another NKD post, been sitting on this one for a few months.

When I first got into Japanese knives, Ivan-san’s visit to Takada-san really stuck with me. When Takada-san brought out his sujihikis, I knew I needed one. Ivan-san even called them some of the best out there, praising the balance and weight distribution.

In hand, it’s perfectly balanced, long, lean, and precise, with just enough substance for control. Definitely a grail sujihiki for me, and one that’s staying for good. I’ve been saving my sujihiki spot for this.

This blade is forged by Yoshikazu Tanaka-san in Blue #1, one of Sakai’s most respected blacksmiths, known for his precise craftsmanship and refined heat treatment. As we all know, his Blue #1 offers excellent edge stability with an aggressive bite.

Finished and sharpened by Takada-san, the grind is flawless. Convex geometry with very clean fit and finish. The Hanabi paired with the Suiboku finish is just something else, absolutely gorgeous.

It’s fitted with the signature Takada no Hamono imperial handle, which is a nice bonus.

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Specs 📏:

•	⁠Spine @ tang: 2.7mm

•	⁠Spine @ heel: 2.4mm

•	⁠Mid: 2.0mm

•	⁠1cm from tip: 2.7mm

•	⁠Heel height: 38mm

•	⁠Edge Length: 253mm

•	⁠Steel: Blue #1

•	⁠Weight: 159.2g

Crafted by:

•	⁠Blacksmith → Tanaka-san

•	⁠Sharpener → Takada-san

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Takada-san has recently closed in-store sales for now to catch up on his backlog and hopefully get some proper rest. It’s definitely a difficult decision, especially since he’s mentioned how much he genuinely enjoys meeting customers in person.

I’m really grateful to have experienced his work and craftsmanship firsthand. Wishing him all the best during this time, and hopefully he gets the break he deserves. Looking forward to his return 🙏🏻 I’ll actually be meeting him next month as well, so I’ll see if I can document that and share it with you all 😊

This will probably be my last Takada NKD for a while. I’m fully content with what I have, and it’s time to slow down and really enjoy using them. The Ginsans are probably getting tired from all the action 😅

Work’s been hectic lately, so I haven’t had much time to cook at home, but I’ll try to share some first hand experiences when I can.

As always, hope you all have an amazing month of April! 

Stay sharp, stay safe, and happy cutting! 👊🏻🔪

NGD! 🔥 Takada No Hamono Blue 1 Hanabi Suiboku 270mm Sujihiki (Tanaka x Takada)