Gyuto Knife Japanese Chef’s Knife By Shigenobu With Sheath - 330mm

Smith name: Nagamine Kiyoshi (1895 ~1982）

Steel: Carbon Steel

Cutting edge length: 339mm

Total length: 476mm 

Handle length(wooden part): 120mm

Blade Width at heel:  about 60.0mm

Spine thickness at handle: about 5.0mm

Spine thickness 1cm from the tip: about 1.1mm

Manufacture Era: Unknown

Weight: 362g

Accessories：Original wooden sheath

Additional Information: Unused. There is rust on the surface of the blade, and the rust on the heel is serious.

Although few people know about the blacksmiths in Aizu area now, the blacksmith culture and technology in this area have a profound influence on the blacksmiths in Sanjo and Tokyo. Shigenobu was the last master in Aizu area. The planes he made were very popular among professional carpenters.

The Shigenobu knives are famous for being highly praised by the 11th head chef of the Imperial Hotel, Murakami Nobuo, also known as "Monsieur Murakami." He commented that the kitchen knive by Shuenen have the "No. 1 Kiriaji" in Japan.

Regarding the Japanese word Kiriaji, I think Mr. Covington's explanation is very accurate, please click on the link below: 

Cutting Flavor aka Kireaji 切れ味