Hado Sumi W2 180 Bunka

Hado White Carbon Steel 180 Bunka

A precision-focused bunka made with white #2 carbon steel with a fine k-tip for detailed prep work and exceptional control.

Sumi W2 Series

This series is forged by Tanaka-san, which tells you it's not something that rolled off a production line between a toaster and a microwave.

Behind the edge it's impressively thin, with a slight hollow grind that helps it move through vegetables, meat and herbs with remarkably little effort. The knife doesn't so much force its way through food as politely part it.

At the heart of it is White #2 carbon steel clad in soft iron and finished with a traditional kasumi polish. It's the sort of steel that rewards a bit of care. Leave it wet and it'll complain. Look after it however, and it'll take an edge that's sharp enough to make most factory knives feel as though they're being a bit lazy.

The toasted oak handle suits the blade perfectly. Simple, comfortable and free from unnecessary drama, it feels like a tool rather than an ornament.

• the blade is carbon steel clad in iron and can rust
• we recommend applying camellia oil for storage
• we recommend buying some rust clean, just in case
• these blades have a thin edge and are not for heavy handed cutting

Hado Knives

Hado knives are produced by Fukui Co., Ltd. in the historic knife making town Sakai, Osaka and have quickly gained a cult following among those in the know.

Their Sakai based workshop houses a team of togishi (sharpeners) who believe knife making is about more than achieving exceptional sharpness; it is about expressing individuality, dedication, and passion through their work. Each artisan contributes their unique skills and character, pouring their soul into every blade they create.

The result is a knife that offers more than outstanding performance. Beyond its cutting ability, each Hado knife is designed to resonate with its user, to experience craftsmanship of the hands that shaped it.

PS: Hado knives have some of the most beautiful packaging in the Japanese knife industry, making them a very gift-able option.