Santoku • 170mm • SLD • Round oakwood handle • for both left and right handed use

Features of the Western Series

The Western series is designed for those who prefer a slightly heavier, more substantial knife without compromising on cutting performance. The knives feature an elegant Nashiji ("pear skin") finish and a walnut wood handle, giving them a warm and classic appearance. Depending on the model, the core steel is either SLD or Aogami steel.

SLD – Hitachi – Steel

SLD steel is a semi-stainless steel with a high carbon content. It was developed by Hitachi Steel, a manufacturer best known for carbon steels such as Aogami and Shirogami. SLD is ideal for people who want the performance of carbon steel but not the intensive maintenance that comes with it, making it an excellent middle ground.

Thanks to its high carbon content, SLD can be brought to a very high level of sharpness. Chromium is also added to the steel, making it more resistant to rust. Unlike VG10, SLD will develop a patina, but it is clearly more user-friendly than White or Blue Paper Steel.

SLD is a strong and versatile steel with long-lasting edge retention and relatively low maintenance. It sits right between carbon steel and stainless steel, making it a favorite among both knifemakers and users who want the best of both worlds.

Elwin de Veld about OEM

An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a company that manufactures an original product that is sold under another company’s brand name. In the case of knives, an OEM might manufacture a knife and sell it to several different companies who then simply add their price margin and sell the knife under their own brand name. This is a common practice in the Japan knife industry. Does it affect quality? No it doesn't, in fact, it can mean a stable production for the knifemaker. 

In this particular OEM case, a well known knifemaker from Sakai, provides knives from other producers from the region. A well overthought choice, to provide a beautiful blade with a stunning handle.