JAPANESE HUNTING KNIFE

This page introduces Japanese hunting knives（剣鉈 -kenata- ・狩猟刀 - syuryoutou -）.

※剣鉈（kenata） / 狩猟刀（syuryoutou） means hunting knife in Japanese.

There are significant differences between Japanese hunting knives and other knives in terms of blade structure, manufacturing methods, and steel materials. These differences result in exceptional sharpness and durability.

Thanks to a uniquely Japanese manufacturing method, we have achieved incredible sharpness and ease of maintenance.
Normally, hunting knife blades are made from a single material.
However, Japanese hunting knives combine with carbon steel for cutting, and soft iron for easy sharpening.
This unique structure, derived from the methods used to make Japanese swords, not only applies to hunting knives but also to kitchen knives. This is one of the reasons why Japanese kitchen knives are so popular.

Handmade blades crafted with dedication by skilled artisans with excellent traditional techniques exude a warmth that industrial products lack. The quality of these forged blades is captivating. At our shop, we offer products from "Mr. Komatsu and Mr. Ikeuchi", who are one of the few blacksmiths who have inherited such a secret technique with a history of 400 years.

The process of attaching steel to soft iron by heating and hammering creates a blade that is easy to sharpen and maintains its edge for a long time. This is achieved through precise hammering techniques and meticulous temperature control. The steel used is the hard and sharp “Japanese steel.”

As mentioned earlier, the unique Japanese structure makes it easy to sharpen and maintain. Since sharpness preferences vary, you can customize the blade’s sharpness to your liking by sharpening it with a whetstone. Additionally, when the blade becomes dull, you don’t have to dispose of it; you can sharpen it and continue using it for a long time.

Below is a list of the blade lengths that will suit the purpose and usage of the sword hatchet.

How long does the sharpness last?
It varies depending on usage. However, our hunting knives are forged by Japan’s finest craftsmen using hammers, making them more durable than machine-made knives. Even if you are not satisfied with the sharpness, they are easy to sharpen with a whetstone, ensuring comfortable use. Additionally, since the steel used in Japanese hunting knives is not stainless, please maintain them with camellia oil to prevent rust.

What is the best blade shape for hunting knives?
Japanese hunting knives are known for their sharpness. Unlike overseas, in Japan, there is a wide variety of lengths that affect usability rather than the blade shape itself.