Nakiri • 165 mm • AUS10 • Oak handle • for both left and right-handed use

Features of the Nawame Series

"Nawame" literally translates to "rope pattern." After the blade is forged in the traditional way, it is finished using specialized hammers and rollers to create its distinctive textured appearance.

The core of the blade is made from AUS-10 stainless steel, a highly user-friendly steel that is easy to sharpen while offering excellent cutting performance. To achieve its glossy finish, the blade is first polished to a mirror-like surface and then etched in an acid bath, enhancing the contrast and bringing out the unique pattern.

The knife is completed with a traditional Japanese octagonal oak wood handle, providing both comfort and a refined aesthetic.

AUS-10 Steel (Aichi Steel)

AUS-10 is a stainless steel produced by Aichi Steel. Thanks to its high chromium content, it offers excellent corrosion resistance. It is widely regarded as an outstanding all-round steel, providing an excellent balance of sharpness, ease of maintenance, edge retention, and durability.

Compared to VG10, AUS-10 is slightly softer, making it more forgiving during everyday use. Depending on the manufacturer and heat treatment, it typically reaches a hardness of 59–61 HRC. The addition of both vanadium and molybdenum improves toughness, reduces the risk of chipping, and helps the edge retain its sharpness over time.

This makes AUS-10 an excellent choice for both passionate home cooks and professional chefs.

Elwin de Veld on OEM

An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a company that produces products which are sold under another company's brand name. In the knife industry, an OEM may manufacture knives that are supplied to multiple brands, each of which sells the knife under its own name and pricing.

This is a common practice in the Japanese knife industry. Does it affect quality? Not at all. In fact, OEM production often provides makers with greater production stability, allowing them to maintain consistently high quality.

In this particular case, a well-known knife maker from Sakai supplies knives produced by carefully selected manufacturers within the region. The result is a thoughtfully crafted knife that combines an exceptional blade with a beautifully finished handle.