Yoshikane SKD Nashiji Olive Nakiri 165mm

This Yoshikane SKD Nakiri brings that classic Sanjo feeling: clean, confident, and seriously well executed without trying to look flashy.

Hand-forged in Sanjo, Japan, using SKD semi-stainless steel, it sits in that sweet spot between carbon-like performance and easier day-to-day care. You get a sharp, responsive edge with very good retention, while the semi-stainless construction gives you a little more forgiveness than a full carbon blade. At around 63 HRC, it has the hardness and refinement you expect from Yoshikane, but still remains pleasant to sharpen and maintain.

The Nakiri shape is made for vegetable prep, and this one feels right at home on the board. The tall, rectangular profile gives excellent knuckle clearance, a stable feel, and a long, flat cutting edge that makes push-cutting, chopping, and clean vegetable work feel natural. It’s the kind of blade that makes simple prep feel more precise and more enjoyable.

At approximately 185g, it has a bit more presence in the hand than lighter laser-style knives, but without feeling bulky. The spine measures around 4mm at the heel, giving the knife a strong, confident start, then tapers down by roughly half toward the front. That taper helps the blade feel smoother and more controlled through ingredients, while keeping the balance comfortable.

The nashiji finish gives the blade a quiet, traditional texture — not too polished, not too rustic, just very Yoshikane. The finishing is where the knife really shows its level: the spine and choil are nicely rounded and polished, making it feel refined the moment you pick it up.

Paired with an olive wood handle, the knife has a warm, natural look that fits beautifully with the soft texture of the blade. Each handle has its own grain and character, adding just enough uniqueness without taking away from the clean, understated style.

For anyone who loves vegetable prep and wants something with more substance, tradition, and refinement than a basic Nakiri, this is a beautiful choice. It’s precise, comfortable, and full of that quiet Sanjo craftsmanship Yoshikane is known for.