Features of the Touroku 440C Series

Touroku is a knife maker that brings together local artisans. In this series, the blade is constructed from 16 layers of Damascus steel with a 440C steel core. Thanks to its high wear resistance and a hardness of approximately 58–60 HRC, this steel is highly suitable for knife making.

The finish is called Nashiji, which literally translates to “pear skin.” This gives the knife a slightly more rugged yet still calm and refined appearance.

The handle is made from smoked oak wood and features red accents. This knife is highly suitable for the enthusiastic home cook or the dedicated professional chef.

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.