Gyuto • 210 mm • HAP40 • Japanese Oak Wa-handle • For both left- and right-handed use

Features of HAP40

HAP40, produced by Hitachi, is a highly regarded steel among enthusiasts. Originally developed for industrial cutting tools, it has since found its way into the knife industry. We often refer to it as “voodoo steel” because it retains its sharpness for an exceptionally long time and reaches a very high hardness of approximately 65–67 HRC.

HAP40 is a powdered steel, but it has a different structure compared to more familiar steels such as SG2. Officially, it cannot be classified as stainless steel because it does not contain enough chromium. As a result, it is considered semi-stainless: the blade may develop a light patina and should be thoroughly dried after use.

The blade is ground very thin and refined, which, combined with this steel, makes it a true powerhouse. Due to its high hardness, HAP40 is more difficult to sharpen than steels like VG10. It requires high-quality diamond stones and proper sharpening knowledge. In return, it delivers a knife that is exceptionally well suited for long-term, intensive, and versatile use.

Elwin de Veld on Touroku

Japanese artisans are highly regarded worldwide. They are known for their dedication, passion, and inner drive to continually improve. Their craftsmanship has been passed down and refined for generations within small, mostly independent family businesses. These businesses are often spread throughout Japan, with specific regions renowned for their specific craftsmanship. Sometimes these small businesses are affiliated with a guild, sometimes not. The older, smaller businesses (those with the greatest perseverance) are particularly open to contacts outside Japan, but often don't know how to take this step.

Taka san, the third-generation owner of Touroku Sakai (登録佐海), which translates as "Recorded or Registered," aims to connect these businesses and make their craft known to the world. Touroku represents a distinguished group of craftspeople specializing in the craft of refined Japanese knives and holding on to the knowledge they have acquired over generations. Taka san runs a unique company where he brings together crafts from the regions of Tsubame Sanjo City, Niigata, Tosa City, Kochi, and the Honkuriku region: Toyama City.

Touroku knives are now beloved by many professional chefs worldwide and embraced by many enthusiastic home cooks.