Yoshida Hamono Utility Knife 170mm – SUJ-2 Kuro-Uchi

⭐ Chosen by Sharp Knives Malta

Selected for cooks who appreciate traditional Japanese blacksmithing, exceptional edge retention, and the unique cutting feel of high-performance carbon steel. Hand-forged in Saga, Japan, this is a knife built for those who value craftsmanship as much as performance.

Traditional Japanese Forging. Pure Cutting Performance.

The Yoshida Hamono Utility Knife 170mm is handcrafted in Saga, Japan, by one of the country's most respected family-owned forges. Known for producing both traditional Japanese swords and premium kitchen knives, Yoshida Hamono brings generations of steel-making expertise to every blade.

Featuring a SUJ-2 high-carbon steel core, a rustic Kuro-Uchi finish, and a traditional magnolia wood wa handle, this knife delivers remarkable sharpness, superb edge retention, and the unmistakable character that only carbon steel can provide.

Compact, agile, and incredibly versatile, it's a knife you'll reach for throughout the day.

Who This Knife Is For

Perfect for:

• Experienced home cooks
• Professional chefs
• Carbon steel enthusiasts
• Users who enjoy sharpening their own knives
• Anyone looking for a versatile everyday Japanese utility knife

Ideal for cooks who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and responsive cutting performance.

Why You'll Love It

SUJ-2 High-Carbon Steel

At the heart of the blade is SUJ-2, a premium Japanese high-carbon steel originally developed for demanding industrial applications where wear resistance is essential.

Benefits include:

• exceptional sharpness
• outstanding edge retention
• excellent toughness
• easy sharpening on whetstones
• precise cutting feedback

Hardened to approximately 63–64 HRC, SUJ-2 develops an incredibly fine edge that rewards proper technique and regular maintenance.

Traditional Kuro-Uchi Finish

The upper portion of the blade retains its forged black finish, known as Kuro-Uchi, preserving the character of the forging process.

Benefits include:

• authentic handmade appearance
• reduced friction during cutting
• added protection for the blade surface
• every knife develops its own unique character

Over time, the exposed carbon steel edge will naturally develop a patina—a sign of a well-used carbon steel knife that many enthusiasts appreciate.

Versatile 170mm Utility Profile

Positioned between a Petty knife and a Gyuto, the 170mm blade offers outstanding versatility.

Perfect for:

• vegetables
• meat preparation
• fish
• trimming proteins
• fruit
• detailed everyday kitchen work

Its compact size offers excellent manoeuvrability while still providing enough blade length for larger preparation tasks.

Traditional Magnolia WA Handle

The knife is fitted with a lightweight oval magnolia wood handle, a classic choice for Japanese kitchen knives.

Benefits include:

• excellent balance
• comfortable grip
• lightweight handling
• natural moisture resistance
• precise control during long prep sessions

The simple, understated handle perfectly complements the rustic character of the blade.

Key Features

• Hand-forged in Saga, Japan
• Premium SUJ-2 high-carbon steel
• Traditional Kuro-Uchi forged finish
• Excellent edge retention
• 170mm utility blade
• Thin Japanese cutting geometry
• Traditional oval magnolia wa handle
• Double bevel edge
• Authentic Japanese craftsmanship

Specifications

Brand: Yoshida Hamono
Knife Type: Utility / Multi-Purpose Knife
Blade Length: 170mm
Steel: SUJ-2 High-Carbon Steel
Hardness: Approximately 63–64 HRC
Finish: Kuro-Uchi (Forged Black Finish)
Bevel: Double Bevel
Handle: Oval Magnolia Wood WA Handle
Made in: Saga, Japan

Care Instructions

As this is a carbon steel knife:

• Hand wash only
• Dry immediately after use
• Never leave the blade wet
• Store in a dry place
• Apply food-safe camellia oil for long-term storage
• Use only on wooden or quality synthetic cutting boards

A natural patina will develop over time, helping to protect the blade while giving it a unique appearance.

Complete Your Knife Setup

Pair it with:

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

Why We Chose This Knife

At Sharp Knives Malta, we're drawn to knives that stay true to traditional Japanese blacksmithing.

The Yoshida Hamono SUJ-2 Utility Knife offers an authentic forging experience, exceptional carbon steel performance, and a level of craftsmanship that becomes more rewarding with every use. It's a knife that develops character alongside its owner.

Final Word

The Yoshida Hamono Utility Knife 170mm is built for cooks who value tradition, precision, and the unmistakable feel of high-performance carbon steel.

Hand-forged, razor sharp, and full of character, it's a knife that rewards proper care with years of exceptional cutting performance.

Traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Exceptional carbon steel. Built to be used for a lifetime.