Gihei Hamono has been operational for over 80 years. Currently run by 2nd generation Mr Hosowaka and his son. They have been predominantly specialising in high end powder steels for many years now. 

SHAPE: Gyuto. Literally translates as "cow sword", this is Japan's answer to the western chef knife. 

STEEL: HAP40. This is a semi stainless powder steel manufactured by Hitachi steel. It has high amounts of tungsten, vanadium, molybdenum and cobalt making it a very tough steel. Add to this over 1.2% carbon and we have a steel capable of extreme hardness and edge retention. 

FINISH: Polished or Migaki

HANDLE: Octagonal Keyaki or Zelkova wood with a buffalo horn ferrule.

LENGTH: 210 or 240mm in length.

MAKER: Gihei - Sanjo, Japan

BEST FOR: Top of the line knives in crazy steels.

SAUNDERS SAYS: "I waited two years for this and every moment was worth it. Everything Gihei produce is phenomenal and we have quite the collection. I had the pleasure of visiting their forge in autumn 2019. The workshop is tiny and it’s mind blowing to think they produce this array from there."

These knives are hand-forged so there may be slight variations in measurements and finishes.