The Stealth Performer: Kurokage "Black Shadow" Kengata Gyuto

The Sakai Takayuki Kurokage 190mm Kengata Gyuto is where high-performance surface science meets traditional Japanese forging. "Kurokage" translates to "Black Shadow," a reference to its unique matte-black Fluorine coating. Applied over a hand-hammered (Tsuchime) VG10 Stainless Steel core, this non-stick finish repels water, oils, and starchy foods, making it the ultimate tool for slicing ingredients that typically "cling" to a blade.

The aggressive Kengata (Sword Tip) profile offers a lower point of contact, providing the surgical precision of a Kiritsuke-style blade for intricate scoring and detailed work. This is paired with a premium Wenge wood handle and a traditional Buffalo Horn bolster, offering a high-contrast, professional aesthetic.

Technical Specifications

Feature	Details
Blade Steel	VG10 Stainless Steel (Hammered Pattern)
Blade Finish	Fluorine Coating (Non-Stick & Rust Resistant)
Hardness (HRC)	60-61 Rockwell Scale
Hand Orientation	Ambidextrous (Symmetrical 50/50 Double Bevel)
Handle Material	African Wenge Wood with Buffalo Horn Ferrule
Blade Length	190 mm (7.5")
Blade Width	48 mm
Blade Thickness	2 mm
Weight	169 g

 

Universal Handling: Left & Right-Handed Friendly

This Kengata Gyuto is ground with a symmetrical 50/50 double-bevel edge, ensuring it performs identically for both right-handed and left-handed users. The octagonal Wenge handle is neutrally shaped, providing a comfortable and secure grip for all chefs, allowing for precise control during intricate prep work.

What’s in the Box?

• Authentic Japanese Paper Box: A beautifully designed, gift-ready presentation box.

• Protective Plastic Sheath: A temporary sleeve to protect the blade during initial transport.

Authorized Aoki Hamono Dealer Since 2019

When you purchase from Hasu-Seizo, you are guaranteed an authentic product sourced directly from the makers in Sakai, Japan. Our long-standing relationship with Aoki Hamono ensures that every Kurokage blade is a genuine masterpiece, supported by our Seattle-based expertise and fast shipping from our US warehouse.

Maintenance & Professional Sharpening

Pro Tip for Longevity: While the Fluorine coating is highly durable, we recommend a Magnolia Wood Saya or a felt-lined Knife Protector for long-term storage. This ensures the 61 HRC edge stays sharp and the black finish remains pristine when stored in a drawer or knife roll.

Sharpening Maintenance: The VG10 core provides professional edge retention. To maintain this blade's razor-sharp edge without damaging the coating, we recommend a Double-Sided 800/6000 Grit Whetstone. Focus your sharpening on the primary edge bevel to keep the knife "laser-sharp" for years to come.

Performance & Care

• Best For: High-speed prep where food release is critical (potatoes, cucumbers, proteins).

• Care: Hand-wash only with a soft cloth and mild soap. Dry thoroughly after washing.

• Important: Never use a dishwasher. Avoid cutting bones, frozen foods, or hard pits to protect the precision-tuned edge from chipping.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the benefit of the Fluorine coating? The non-stick Fluorine coating significantly reduces surface friction. This is particularly useful when cutting starchy vegetables (like potatoes) or fatty proteins, as it prevents the "suction" effect that causes food to stick to the blade. It also provides an additional layer of rust and stain resistance.

Is the Wenge handle durable for professional use? Yes. Wenge is an African timber known for its extreme strength and resistance to wear. It is one of the hardest woods used in Japanese cutlery, providing a long-lasting, water-resistant handle that feels secure even in busy kitchen environments.

How do I sharpen a coated knife? You sharpen a coated knife exactly like a standard knife using whetstones. The coating is not applied to the actual cutting edge (the apex), so you can maintain the edge without affecting the aesthetics of the blade face.

Where is this knife shipped from? All Hasu-Seizo inventory is stocked and quality-checked at our US-based warehouse in Seattle, WA. We offer fast domestic delivery and local customer support you can trust.