Shoichi Hashimoto – The “Modelling Knifemaker”

Shoichi Hashimoto calls himself a “Modelling Knifemaker” (造形刃物作家) – and at first, you might wonder what that means. But once you see his work, it becomes crystal clear. Shoichi is an artist, sculptor, and knifemaker all at once, and each of his creations is a true work of functional art.

He designs every knife from scratch, forges his own damascus steel, and sharpens each blade himself – a true one-man show.

Widely regarded as one of the finest Damascus artists in Japan, Shoichi began crafting Japanese kitchen knives in 2018. As he experimented with blade-making, he quickly developed a deep understanding of optimal kitchen knife geometry — perfecting thickness, grind, and blade taper. His knives are constructed in san-mai (three-layer) fashion, but each layer itself is a layered Damascus steel, creating an extraordinary visual depth and character.

📋 Specifications

• Blade Length: 239 mm

• Total Length: 382 mm

• Cladding (Jigane): Damascus – Nantetsu Soft Steel + variety of soft steels (e.g., SK3)

• Core Steel (Hagane): Aogami #2 & Shirogami #2 Damascus

• Handle: Ebony Wood + Black Buffalo Ferrule + 3 Decorative Spacers

• Spine Thickness: 3.51 mm

• Height at Heel: 51.3 mm

• Hardness: 62–63 HRC

• Weight: 254.9 g

🔪 About the Shape – Gyuto

The Gyuto (literally “cow sword”) is Japan’s interpretation of the classic European chef’s knife — a true all-rounder in the kitchen.

• Versatility: Excellent for slicing meat, chopping vegetables, and general prep work.

• Cutting Style: Best used with a forward/backward push-cut, but also works well for rocking motions.

• Balance: The long blade gives a slight forward balance, letting gravity assist your cut for smooth, effortless performance.

If you’re looking for a knife that is functional art, Shoichi Hashimoto’s Gyuto is an outstanding choice — both a collector’s piece and a workhorse.