Bunka • 170 mm • White#2 • Japanese magnolia handle with horn bolster • for both left and right handed use

Characteristics of the OEM White #2 Series

OEM, also known as Original Equipment Manufacturer, is a larger company that produces both handles and blades for the knife industry. By operating on a larger scale, they are able to employ specialists in each department, resulting in an excellent price-to-quality ratio. OEM is often regarded as a commercial manufacturer, but this perception is not entirely accurate.

The blade is constructed using the sanmai method, meaning it consists of two layers of stainless steel with a core of Shirogami White #2 steel. The blade is finished with an attractive tsuchime (hammered) pattern. This finish helps reduce food sticking to the blade, which can enhance cutting performance and comfort.

The handle has a traditional appearance and is made from Japanese magnolia wood, finished with a buffalo horn ferrule. To keep the handle in optimal condition, we recommend oiling it once a year with a neutral oil.

White steel, also known as Shirogami/White paper/Shiroko steel

Not named after the color of the steel, but after the paper in which the steel is packaged at the Hitachi steel factory in Japan. There are 3 different grades: #1, #2 & #3, of which #1 has the highest amount of carbon and #3 the lowest. In general, #1 can be made very sharp, but #1 is prone to breakage. While #3 will stay sharp the longest and is tougher. Grade #2 is the most common in white steel. White steel is a very fine type of steel with a low percentage of iron, popular because it is easy to sharpen. In practice, a whetstone can quickly create a very sharp cutting edge. Often used by sushi chefs who want a very sharp knife. White steel rusts very quickly and must be well maintained.

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.