The Kiya Nanbu 170mm Kamagata Usuba is a Japanese vegetable knife with a single-bevelled edge. The kamagata variation of the usuba vegetable knife refers to the curved style and pointed tip of the blade, making it similar in shape to a santoku. Use the Kamagata Usuba as you would a chef’s knife, to slice vegetables or do delicate work with the tip of the blade. This beautiful knife was handcrafted by Toshiki Nanbu in Takefu, Japan, using the traditional techniques of an Echizen blacksmith. Forged from V2 steel, the high-carbon steel core is surrounded by 10 layers of Damascus-cladding to give the knife the intricate patterning near the edge. The dark kurouchi finish of the blade is created during the heat-treating process. This coating or patina protects the blade from rust and gives the blade a rustic, authentic styling. Each Nanbu knife is finished with a traditional octagonal handle of pakkawood and walnut. This knife is made with a very hard carbon steel, which will hold a sharp edge for longer, but can rust or chip without proper care and use. To care for your knife: Due to the nature of handcrafting and traditional blacksmithing, each knife is unique and may have some cosmetic distortion or irregularities. This is expected and normal. Because these knives are handcrafted, they do not qualify for warranty services.