The number of forge smiths who can craft a Honyaki knife — one that combines true beauty, razor sharpness, and practical performance — is becoming increasingly rare. Each year, the quantity of Honyaki knives produced is naturally limited.

As you may know, Mizuno Tanrenjo has devoted tremendous effort and focus to preserving and passing down the art of Honyaki craftsmanship, accumulated over their long history. No matter how much time passes, the Honyaki knives of Mizuno Tanrenjo continue to be made in the same uncompromising tradition — and in the modern world, we believe they are becoming ever more valuable as true works of art with substance and soul.

This special limited edition was conceived and designed by Master Jun Mizuno, the fifth-generation head of Mizuno Tanrenjo and a swordsmith in his own right. Drawing inspiration from the elegant form of a traditional TANTO (小刀), he forged and crafted this distinctive Honyaki utility knife to bring together the beauty of a sword with the cutting performance and refinement of a Honyaki blade.

With its single-bevel edge, this knife is especially effective for the smooth, controlled pull cuts(Pull-Slicing) associated with single-bevel Japanese knives. Its versatile design makes it an excellent slicer and utility knife for a wide range of kitchen tasks, bringing together the character of a small sword with the practical performance of a finely crafted kitchen tool.

Since ancient times, the Japanese Katana has been admired for its ability to take an extremely sharp edge and function without bending or breaking. Mizuno Tanrenjo's Honyaki knives are being crafted using similar traditional methods to achieve the same functionality as the legendary Katana.The long slender blade comes with beautiful Hamon Layers.

The inheritance of these traditional swordsmithing techniques allows Master Mizuno to bring out the maximum performance and beauty from the Hagane used to create these Honyaki Wa-Bocho masterpieces.

We are proud to introduce Mizuno Tanrenjo's highest-end, wonderful and beautiful Hamon layer of Honyaki DX Series (Blue Steel No.2), which is heat-treated and to an incredible HRc. 64-65. 

 For safekeeping, this knife comes with a Magnolia Wooden Saya ("Sheath") and a black pakkawood Saya pin.

This Tanto-style utility knife is a versatile slicer designed for a wide range of kitchen tasks. Its single-bevel edge is especially well suited to smooth, controlled pull cuts (pull-slicing). It can be used for slicing meat and fish, as well as preparing vegetables and fruit. Compact yet highly capable, it brings the character of a traditional Japanese small sword together with the practical performance of a finely crafted Honyaki kitchen knife.

Knife Model: Mizuno Tanrenjo — Special Orders & Limited Editions Akitada Honyaki DX Blue Steel No.2 Series MT-11 Tanto Style Honyaki Utlity Slicer 240mm

Blade Material: Blue Steel No.2

Rockwell Hardness (HRc): 64 to 65

Blade Grind and Edge Shape: Single Bevel Edge

Handle Material: Octagonal Ebonywood Handle with Marble Water Buffalo Horn Ferrule & Black Color Turquoise Ring

Saya Included: Yes.

Sorry. This knife is not available for left handed version.

We believe the quality and cutting performance of Japanese knives are the best in the world, and hope you enjoy fine craftsmanship and sharp edge with your new knife. With proper cares, every Japanese knife should be your special cooking partner for long times.

Important

This is the Carbon steel blade kitchen knife that can get rust and discolor easily, and requires extra care and attention to prevent rust.