Zakuri AS Kurouchi Bunka 180mm
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180-day returns on eligible unused items. Free prepaid label. Return details.
Free US standard shipping over $99. Normally fulfilled within 2 business days. Delivery details.
Every order insured. We handle shipping claims.
Overview
The Zakuri AS Kurouchi Bunka 180mm is a compact, do-everything Japanese kitchen knife forged in Tosa, Japan by the Zakuri blacksmiths’ co-op. It pairs a hard-wearing Aogami Super (AS) carbon-steel core with reactive iron cladding in a traditional kurouchi (black) finish for classic Tosa character and a textured forged surface. The K-tip “bunka” profile excels at precise tip work, straight-line push cuts, and confident chopping on vegetables and proteins alike. If you want a nimble daily driver with serious edge life and classic Tosa character, this is it.
Steel & build, in plain English: AS (Aogami Super) is a premium high-carbon steel prized for taking a screaming-sharp edge and holding it. The kurouchi finish covers much of the reactive iron cladding and can slow oxidation on coated areas, but both the exposed cladding and core still require prompt cleaning and drying. Expect fast, clean cuts, crisp feedback on the board, and a patina that tells the story of your cooking.
Common Questions
Q: Is this knife suitable for home cooks?
A: Absolutely. The 180mm length is approachable in small kitchens yet long enough for full-size tasks. The K-tip helps with shallots, garlic, and detail work, while the flatter edge cruises through veggies with push cuts.
Q: How do I care for a carbon-steel knife?
A: Wash by hand, dry immediately, and wipe a drop of blade oil on before storage. We recommend Tsubaki (camellia) oil. For edge touch-ups between full sharpenings, a few light passes on our Tokushu XL Buffalo Leather Strop work wonders.
Q: Do you offer sharpening or setup?
A: Yes—choose our in-house Knife Sharpening Service at checkout for dialed-in performance right out of the box.
Q: What cutting board should I use?
A: Avoid glass/stone. A quality soft board extends edge life—our pick is the Hasegawa Pro.
Specifications
- Core Steel: Aogami Super (AS) high-carbon steel
- Cladding Type: Iron clad with kurouchi finish
- Blade Length: 180mm
- Overall Length: 325mm
- Spine Thickness (Heel): 3.0mm
- Weight: 138g
- Handle Material: Chestnut with plastic collar
- Hardness (HRC): 63 HRC
- Origin: Tosa, Japan; Zakuri co-op
Use & Care Tips
Hand wash only, dry immediately, and store with a thin coat of tsubaki oil. Touch up on a leather strop between full stone sessions. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and twisting cuts. Pair with a Hasegawa Pro board to maximize edge life.
Q: What makes Aogami Super special?
A: It takes a very fine edge and holds it longer than most carbons while resisting chipping when treated properly—great daily performance with proper care.
Q: Is the finish stainless?
A: No. Both the iron cladding and exposed AS edge are reactive; the kurouchi finish can slow oxidation on coated areas, but the blade must still be kept dry and lightly oiled for storage.
Shipping, returns and order protection
US shipping: Free on orders over $99. Orders are normally fulfilled within 2 business days, and UPS Ground transit is typically 1–5 business days after fulfillment. Custom handle installation or sharpening may add 1–2 business days.
Returns: Eligible purchases may be returned within 180 days with a free prepaid return label. Knives sharpened by Tokushu Knife or fitted with a custom handle remain eligible if they are otherwise new, unused, undamaged, and returned in their original packaging with all included components. The same refund terms apply.
Order protection: Every order is insured. If a package is lost or damaged, contact us at Tony@TokushuKnife.com and we will handle the claim.
Outside the US: Supported international orders from TokushuKnife.com typically ship via FedEx Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). Tokushu Knife pays all applicable import duties and taxes on the customer's behalf. Customers are not responsible for paying duties or taxes. Available destinations, shipping charges and delivery estimates are shown at checkout. Customers may also shop at TokushuKnife.eu for regional inventory and options.
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Steel, Construction and Care
Our catalog includes stainless, semi-stainless and carbon steels selected for edge performance and durability. Carbon steels may develop a patina, while stainless steels are designed to resist discoloration. Follow the care guidance on each product page, hand wash only and dry the knife promptly after use.
