Naoki Mazaki is a blacksmith located in Sanjo, Niigata. He works alone in his small workshop and handles all aspects of his knife making. This series is made from Shirogami #1 steel hand laminated in soft iron and water quenched to 64-65 HRC. This blade is migaki finished with kasumi on the bevels to show contrast between the steels. The bevels are finished by hand on Japanese whetstones to ensure an even grind and geometry. The forged distal taper is quite impressive and has a nice progressive thinness towards the tip. Lightly convexed bevels and very thin behind the cutting edge. The octagonal handle is made from magnolia and walnut ferrule. *Please note these are handmade items. Finish and size can vary slightly. Edge Length: 247mmHeight at heel: 54.8mmSpine thickness above heel: 4.9mmWeight: 183g