Kawatsu Hamono Funayuki-bocho 120mm Aogami #2

A beautifully executed general-purpose knife for small boards and out-of-the way places. The funayuki style derives from fishing and maritime use - a short, sharp, versatile blade for long fishing expeditions, ideal for preparing meals in galleys and confined spaces. The perfect choice for a tiny house?

Kawatsu san's shortest funayuki sports a very tidy blade but for us it's the zelkova hardwood handle that lifts this little knife to another level, both in terms of aesthetic appeal and naga-mochi - that wonderful Japanese notion of long-term use. Zelkova (keyaki in Japanese) is tough, hard and beautifully grained. The only reason we don't see more of it is availability and price - magnolia wins there, zelkova everywhere else. In our opinion at least - our home kitchen counter top is zelkova. Love it.

Kawatsu Hamono's black-forged blades combine a touch of wa sensibility with modern practicality and a finish that satisfies a craftsman's eye. We love Kawatsu san's exacting approach - you can see it in his well-ordered workspace and every knife he makes.