Santoku • 180 mm • 3 layers • ZA-18 • Japanese walnut handle • for both left and right handed use

Features of Baba Hamono Kagekiyo Za-18 series

This Baba Hamono series features a blade constructed from 45 layers with a ZA-18 steel core. It is finished with a black oxide coating. This is achieved through a chemical process that creates a thin layer on the blade, providing protection against corrosion.

The handle is made of walnut wood, with a dark pakka wood ferrule. This creates a beautiful contrast with the dark finish of the blade.

ZA-18 Aichi steel

ZA-18 is a stainless steel produced by the manufacturer Aichi Steel, also known for steels such as AUS-10. This steel competes with the well-known VG10 steel but has a slightly different character. Compared to VG10, ZA-18 is slightly harder (61–64 HRC), which allows it to retain its sharpness longer, although it takes a bit more time to sharpen.

The outer layers are often made of a softer steel (such as AUS-2), which protects the hard core from bending and breaking. This steel is very suitable for both enthusiastic home cooks and professional chefs.

Elwin de Veld about Baba Cutlery Works

Baba Hamono had been on my list of places to visit for a long time. When Baba contacted me to do business I knew I had to jump in right away. There are some very important and leading sharpeners in Sakai and Baba Hamono is one of the top 3. It is an honor to do business with these knife makers, who bring tradition and modern craftsmanship together in a unique way.

Knives with a double-sharpened blade and a double shinogi are not new. The refinement with which Baba Hamono finishes his knives can certainly be called unique. The thinning of the blade has been so perfected that there is no unevenness, as you often have with cheaper inferior models. An extremely thin cutting surface provides unparalleled ease of cutting.