Kyohei Shindo Azul #2 Kurouchi 165mm Bunka Sin Mango

Shindo is a sleeper hit who is becoming known in some circles for these rustic blades. It's gonna be a little rough around the edges, the hammering may look rough and uneven in some spots, but it's all minor details compared to how the knife cuts. This knife slices admirably well with a respectably thin edge, and you will be shocked that a knife this reasonably priced can cut this well.

I paired this with the Tokushu Rosewood / Ebony handle. It matches the darker aesthetic of the blade, fits well, and was well crafted. Overall a great little combo and this blacksmith should be someone to consider if you don't mind the rustic nature!

I bought one for myself. I then quickly bought another because I didn't want to not have a backup before the price doubled. I bought one for a friend, had two other friends buy based on my recommendation, and I just got another. The blades are very thin and also can get very sharp. His hammering and shaping leading into the blade is special. All that said, they are also challengingly reactive, but so worth the discipline. I don't recommend Shindo-san's original wood handle and plastic ferrule. The steel is well worth the price of a nice handle. I'll be getting his nakiri and 210 gyuto in time.

I can't say enough about the service I received from tokushuknife.com. I asked to have a knife I purchased finished sharpened without a handle on it. My questions were answered almost immediately and the finished product was done as requested at no extra charge!!! Fantastic. Will purchase from again!!!