Minamoto Otofusa Mioroshi Deba 180mm – New Old Stock by Master Imai

⭐ Chosen by Sharp Knives Malta

Selected for collectors, traditional craftsmen, and serious fish chefs who appreciate authentic Japanese knife history as much as exceptional cutting performance.

A Rare Piece of Japanese Knife History

Some knives are made to be used.

Others become part of history.

This Minamoto Otofusa Mioroshi Deba is a genuine New Old Stock knife, discovered in an old knife shop in Sanjo, Niigata—one of Japan's most respected blade-making regions.

Hand-forged by Master Imai more than 25 years ago, these blades remained carefully stored and untouched after production. Following his retirement and eventual passing, no more knives bearing his craftsmanship would ever be made.

Estimated to be over 30 years old, this is more than a kitchen knife—it's an authentic piece of Japanese blade-making heritage.

Who This Knife Is For

Perfect for:

• Traditional Japanese fish preparation
• Professional sushi and seafood chefs
• Collectors of handmade Japanese knives
• Enthusiasts seeking genuine New Old Stock blades
• Anyone who appreciates authentic Japanese craftsmanship

Why You'll Love It

Handmade by Master Imai

Every knife was individually forged using traditional Japanese techniques.

Unlike modern production knives, each blade reflects the personal craftsmanship, skill, and attention to detail of a single master smith.

Today, knives like this are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

Shirogami #2 – Pure Carbon Steel

Forged from White #2 (Shirogami #2) carbon steel, one of Japan's purest and most respected traditional knife steels.

It offers:

• extraordinary sharpness
• exceptionally clean cutting feel
• effortless sharpening
• outstanding edge refinement

For many traditional craftsmen, White #2 remains the benchmark for pure cutting performance.

Traditional Hand-Laminated Construction

The hard carbon steel core is protected by softer outer steel using traditional laminated construction.

This creates a blade that:

• supports the ultra-hard cutting edge
• improves durability
• absorbs shock more effectively
• reflects classic Japanese forging methods

Mioroshi Deba Geometry

The Mioroshi Deba bridges the gap between a traditional Deba and a Yanagiba.

Its slightly longer, slimmer profile makes it ideal for:

• breaking down whole fish
• filleting medium-sized fish
• cutting through fish heads and small bones
• portioning fish for sashimi

It offers remarkable versatility while maintaining the strength expected from a Deba.

Traditional Ura

The beautifully executed ura (concave hollow grind) is a defining feature of high-quality single-bevel Japanese knives.

It helps to:

• reduce friction
• improve food release
• increase slicing precision
• simplify sharpening

A well-finished ura is one of the hallmarks of traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Restored for the Next Generation

To ensure many more decades of service, the knife has been fitted with a new traditional handle featuring:

• Ho (Magnolia) wood
• Buffalo horn ferrule

The result preserves the knife's authentic character while providing the comfort and balance expected from a premium Japanese knife.

The Beauty of New Old Stock

Because this knife has been stored for decades, you may notice:

• light patina
• small surface marks
• subtle signs of age

These are not defects.

They are part of the knife's history and proof of its authenticity. For many collectors, these natural traces of time make the knife even more desirable.

Key Features

• Genuine New Old Stock knife
• Hand-forged by Master Imai
• Estimated 30+ years old
• Shirogami #2 (White #2) carbon steel
• Traditional laminated construction
• Single-bevel edge with handcrafted ura
• New Ho wood handle with buffalo horn ferrule
• Made in Sanjo, Niigata, Japan

Specifications

Brand: Minamoto Otofusa

Knife Type: Mioroshi Deba

Blade Length: 180 mm

Steel: Shirogami #2 (White #2) Carbon Steel

Construction: Traditional Hand-Laminated

Edge: Single Bevel

Handle: Ho Wood with Buffalo Horn Ferrule (Renewed)

Origin: Sanjo, Niigata, Japan

Age: Estimated 30+ Years (New Old Stock)

Complete Your Knife Setup

Pair it with:

• Japanese Whetstone (1000 / 3000 grit)
• Camellia Knife Oil
• HASEGAWA Professional Cutting Board
• Traditional Wooden Saya

Why We Like This Knife

At Sharp Knives Malta, we occasionally come across knives that deserve to be preserved as much as they deserve to be used. This Minamoto Otofusa Mioroshi Deba is one of those rare finds—a blade forged by a master craftsman, patiently waiting decades before beginning its journey in a new kitchen.

Final Word

Modern knives can be replaced.

Knives like this cannot.

The Minamoto Otofusa Mioroshi Deba 180mm is a rare opportunity to own an authentic piece of Japanese knife-making history—crafted by a master, preserved through time, and ready to perform for generations to come.

Rare. Authentic. Irreplaceable.