Ikenami Hamono Usuba 180mm

Not all knife makers in Japan cater to a professional clientele. For those who do, a good usuba is a crucial product in the mix. It's a basic tool in any Japanese restaurant and you can be sure the artisanal knife maker will make sure his is a quality knife. 

Forging and tempering techniques traditional to Ikenami Hamono's home island of Tanegashima impart exceptional hardness. Functionally the key selling points for Ikenami Hamono are sharpness, edge retention and cutting feel, but that's not to ignore aesthetics. The contrast of the blade materials on the Ikenami Hamono usuba is more pronounced than on many knives and it's nicely complemented by a premium handle of sandalwood and water buffalo horn.