The nakiri knife is a Japanese vegetable knife suitable for cutting vegetables and fruit.

Kai Shun nakiri

Kai Shun nakiri

A nakiri is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife. In Japan, vegetable knives are known as nakiri (double-sided grind) or usuba (one-sided grind). You can recognize a nakiri by its rectangular blade shape. The tip of the knife is slightly rounded. This is, without a doubt, the knife you use to finely cut carrots, cucumber, cabbage and any other types of vegetables. But chopping herbs is also a piece of cake. At Knivesandtools, you will find nakiris from brands such as Sakai Takayuki, Tojiro, Miyabi, Kai and Eden.

Nakiri knives

Nakiri knives

The Tojiro Atelier knives are handmade Japanese kitchen knives. This collection of knives has everything you need in the kitchen. The knives are made from 63 layers of hand-forged damascus steel, an impressively labour-intensive process that makes each knife unique. The choice for hand-forged damascus results in exceptional quality and durability. This series consists of a santoku knife, a nakiri, a chef's knife, a bunka and petty knives, available in different lengths to meet customer demands.

Tojiro Atelier

The Tim Mälzer Kamagata series is a budget-friendly collection of kitchen knives. Kai achieved this by using affordable materials. Of course, these materials still meet Tim Mälzer's high quality standards. The focus of this series is on functionality, robust quality and minimalist aesthetics. It's a complete collection consisting of nine kitchen knives. There is a knife for every cutting task. The showstopper of this series is the hybrid chef's knife which combines the best features of a chef's knife, a santoku and a nakiri. 'Kamagata' is Japanese for 'crescent-shaped', referring to the blades' characteristic curvature.

Kai Tim Mälzer Kamagata

The Eden Hammered Damast kitchen knives are razor-sharp jewellery for your kitchen. Elegant yet very practical. The blade has a core made from Japanese stainless steel and shows a beautiful damascus pattern. As icing on the cake, the blade has a hammered finish. Also called Tsuchime. This finish gives the knife a graceful look reminiscent of artisanal forging techniques from Japan. The black matted handle made from G10 plastic provides a nice contrast to the shiny blade. Excellent detailing and a wooden storage box complete the picture. There's a Hammered Damast chef's knife, nakiri, paring knife and bread knife. The knives are also available in different sets.

Eden Hammered Damast

## Features of Messermeister Edge Guard knife guards 

 

These knife guards are available in different sizes. Find the one that fits your knife! The description of the knife guards clearly states the dimensions. We recommend choosing a size-up from your knife. For example, is your knife's blade 16.5 cm to 17 cm in length? We recommend the 19.5-cm knife guard, as the 17-cm one will probably be a bit tight. 

 

### Different sizes of knife guards 

Messermeister Edge Guard knife guards have different 'length' sizes. There are also 'wide' knife guards for kitchen knives with a high blade, such as chef's knives, santokus and nakiris. On the other hand, there are also 'narrow' knife guards for, you guessed it, smaller kitchen knives like peeling knives, steak knives or filleting knives. 

 

The great thing about the Messermeister Edge-Guard knife guards is that they are quite thin. As a result, they're also very suitable to use in combination with a knife bag. In fact, for safety reasons and for the durability of your knife bag, it is wise to put a knife protector on your knives before placing them in the knife bag.

Messermeister Edge-Guard knife guards

## How do you choose the best Japanese kitchen knife? 

First of all, because there are many types of Japanese knives, you'll need to decide which products you usually cut. Are you looking for a general-purpose kitchen knife? Then you should have a look at the gyutos or a [santoku knife](kato://content/migrated_pageid_89). Are you looking for a knife that will allow you to cut vegetables with extreme precision? Then a [nakiri knife](kato://content/migrated_pageid_70) is the kitchen knife for you! For smaller cutting work, you'll quickly end up with a shotoh or petty knife. Fish lovers will appreciate the ultimate convenience of a yanagiba or deba. And real carnivores will choose a sujihiki. Or, choose a [Japanese knife set](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1295) to get a complete set in one go! 

 

### Japanese kitchen knives made from stainless steel 

What kind of steel suits your needs: VG10, AUS10 or a different Japanese stainless steel? You can also choose to buy [damascus knives](kato://content/migrated_pageid_1033) for an extra elegant look. 

 

### Carbon-steel blade 

Are you a fan of Japanese knives in the traditional style? There are many knives with made from Japanese steel. Make sure to check out carbon steel types like Aogami Blue Paper steel or Shirogami White Paper steel. These kinds of steel are not stainless, but they are harder than stainless steel, and you can achieve a higher level of sharpness. Carbon steel takes a little more maintenance than stainless steel. If you leave these knives lying around on a stack of dishes, you are guaranteed to create discolouration, if not corrosion. [Patina](kato://content/migrated_topic_400), however, is normal. Make sure to wash carbon steel knives directly after use to maintain their beauty. When properly taken care of, a carbon steel kitchen knife will give you a lifetime of cooking pleasure. And admit it: patina on a kitchen knife has its charm, right?

Japanese kitchen knives

## How to choose the best kitchen knife


Some kitchen knives can be used for multiple purposes. Examples are chef's knives and santoku's. These are all-round knives that can be used for most tasks in the kitchen. [Bread knives](kato://content/migrated_pageid_231) are, obviously, great when cutting hard and soft types of bread. But did you know you can also use them to cut hard vegetables and fruit? Each chef's, santoku or bread knife should be accompanied by a good [carving knife](kato://content/migrated_pageid_24) and a razor-sharp [peeling knife](kato://content/migrated_pageid_94).


## Specialized kitchen knives


Yanagiba, [nakiri](kato://content/migrated_pageid_70), bunka, Chai Dao and gyuto. Names you probably haven't seen that often. These are all specific kitchen knives that each have their own task. One is great when cutting vegetables while you use the other for sashimi. But also [oyster knives](kato://content/migrated_pageid_797), [boning knives](kato://content/migrated_pageid_14) and [cleavers](kato://content/migrated_pageid_53) have one specific purpose. As such you need to think about which knife will leave you with the best results.


We sell kitchen knives from our own quality brand [Eden](kato://content/migrated_pageid_207), from the famous German brands such as [WMF](kato://content/wmfdeliverykey), [Robert Herder](kato://content/migrated_pageid_17) and [Zwilling J.A. Henckels](kato://content/migrated_pageid_150), Japanese kitchen knives from, for instance, [Kai](kato://content/migrated_pageid_37), [Tojiro](kato://content/migrated_pageid_30) and [Sakai Takayuki](kato://content/migrated_pageid_61), original French Laguiole knives from [Forge de Laguiole](kato://content/migrated_pageid_97), [Fontenille Pataud](kato://content/migrated_pageid_62) and [Laguiole en Aubrac](kato://content/migrated_pageid_227) and many other brands.

All types of kitchen knives

## Eden Classic Damast features

Eden Classic Damast knives are not only elegant, they are also incredibly functional. The blade runs throughout the entire handle. As a result, these knives are very strong. The handle seamlessly merges with the blade. This prevents dirt from getting stuck between the blade and the handle! While cutting, you can use the entire length of the razor-sharp blade. This is because there is no thicker part between the handle and the blade, which is also known as the 'crop'. The lack of a crop also makes it easier to sharpen your Eden Classic Damast knives.

### Types of Eden Classic Damast kitchen knives

Within the Eden Classic Damast collection, you'll find every type of kitchen knife you could possibly need. From a chef's knife to a paring knife. Or do you prefer Japanese Santokus or a nakiri? These knives are available in different sets, with or without knife block.

### Eden Classic Damast kitchen knives maintenance

It is best if you clean the kitchen knives from the Eden Classic Damast collection by hand. Detergent can have a negative effect on steel. Putting these knives through the dishwasher can therefore cause spots of rust to appear on the blade. In addition, detergent can also affect the handles of these knives, causing them to become dull over time. If you want to keep your knives looking great for a longer time, wash them by hand!

### Eden Classic Damast: 25-year warranty

We are fully convinced of the quality of our Eden kitchen knives. That's why we offer a 25-year warranty on material and manufacturing defects!

Eden Classic Damast

## Reasons to choose Shizu Hamono 

Are you passionate about cooking and are you looking to expand your collection of kitchen tools? Shizu Hamono kitchen knives are just the thing. It might be an investment, but you'll be investing in your own cooking delight! 

 

### Japanese kitchen knives 

Shizu Hamono knives are handmade by Japanese artisanal knife makers. They have years of experience in forging knives and use traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. Shizu Hamono uses premium steel types like VG10 and Aogami (Blue Paper Steel). These steel types are known to be durable and have an excellent sharpness retention. The thinly-ground edges guarantee exceptional sharpness. 

 

Shizu Hamono kitchen knives are very comfortable to hold and offer good balance. This contributes to a pleasant cutting experience. The brand has a wide range of knives for different applications in the kitchen, including chef's knives, santoku knives, nakiri knives and more. This allows chefs to choose knives that best suit their cooking style and needs. Shizu Hamono knives have beautiful designs and are clearly made with great attention to detail. These knives are appreciated for their aesthetic value alongside their functionality. 

 

### Craftsmanship 

Owning a Shizu Hamono knife is often seen as a sign of dedication to the culinary arts. This brand has a great reputation and is often associated with professional chefs and gourmets. 

 

## History of Shizu Hamono 

Shizu Hamono Co. Ltd. was founded in 1980. However, the brand's history goes back much, much further. The name of the company subtly refers back to its origins. 'Shizu' refers to Saburo Sizu. A master craftsman and sword maker from the Edo period (1603-1868). Hamono refers to Japanese cutting tools such as chisels, scrapers, knives and other products with a blade existing of two parts: a rock-hard steel core, forged together with a softer, stainless steel. This is still a popular choice for Japanese knife makers. And that includes Shizu Hamono! 

 

Not much more information can be found about this mysterious knife manufacturer. But as they put it: 'Our dream become products from our enthusiasm and technology'. We're sold.

Shizu Hamono kitchen knives

## Tips for buying a chef's knife set 

By buying a knife set that includes a chef's knife, you're choosing a specific brand, and a particular series. That's why it's important to read up on the brand and its series. That way, you will know if you can expand your set of [kitchen knives](kato://content/migrated_pageid_742) in the future. You may initially only be looking to purchase the basic knives that you need for everyday tasks in your kitchen. But later on, you might like to add some specialized knives to your collection, like filleting knives, tomato knives, or a nakiri. Or choose a 10-piece set to have a complete collection in one go! At Knivesandtools we offer many [knife sets](kato://content/migrated_pageid_161); from damascus chef’s knife sets to Japanese chef’s knife sets. 
 
Another thing to keep in mind is that you'll need to store your knives in a safe way. Fortunately, some sets already come with a knife block or knife magnet. Sometimes, though, the set does not include a storage option. Perhaps you already have a knife block or knife magnet, but if you don't have one or if it's time for an upgrade, you can discover our [countless storage solutions for kitchen knives here](kato://category/kitchenknifestorage).

Chef's knife sets

## Features of Eden Elements

Each knife is meticulously crafted to satisfy culinary connoisseurs who savour the art of cooking. The stainless steel blade's surface features an intriguing partially-hammered finish. Originally, these dents were the result of the blacksmith's hammer. These prevent ingredients from sticking to the blade. As a result, these knives bring both fashion and function to the table. The handle is made from coloured G10. This is a very sturdy plastic that is resistant to moisture, heat and falls. With their distinctive coloured handles, these knives are a beautiful addition to your kitchen arsenal and are suitable for any budding home cook looking to add an extra element to their culinary experience!

### Knives in the Eden Elements collection

* The santoku is a versatile kitchen knife that is perfect when cutting, crushing and scooping meat, fish and vegetables. The santoku, with its fiery red handle, adds some extra spice to your favourite dishes.
* Pankiri is the Japanese term for bread knife. It's a large serrated knife that allows you to effortlessly slice through bread and tough vegetables. For example, pumpkins, melons or celeriac. A knife with unprecedented power and the resistance of metal.
* The nakiri can be found in almost every Japanese kitchen. The high and square blade is great for quickly cutting vegetables, fruit and herbs. This vegetable knife, with its green handle, will ground your inner chef.
* The sashimi knife is perfect for more delicate cutting tasks. The long and low blade is designed to cut very thin slices of sashimi. The striking white and blue handle reflects the current of the river.
* A petty knife is small, but mighty. This small peeling knife is great for precision tasks like cutting and dicing your ingredients. The yellow handle of this knife underlines the durability and versatility of wood.

### How to maintain your Eden Elements kitchen knives

Always wash your Eden Elements knives by hand. When you put these knives in the dishwasher, water can stay behind in the little dimples of the blade. This makes the steel more likely to rust. In addition, detergent can also affect the handles of these knives, causing them to become dull over time. So keep your knives looking great and wash them by hand!

Eden Elements

## Reasons to choose Mcusta Zanmai
Mcusta Zanmai kitchen knives are a unique mix of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and modern technology. These knives are made by hand in Seki, Japan, a city known for its manufacturers of high-quality knives and cutting tools. The age-old blacksmithing tradition lives on in every knife Mcusta Zanmai makes.
What makes Mcusta Zanmai special is its focus on quality and innovation. They use laser technology and CNC machines to make all parts with incredible accuracy. Then each knife is assembled by hand, sharpened, polished and checked by skilled craftsmen. The result? A knife that is not only strong and functional, but also beautiful.

## Mcusta Zanmai series
### Mcusta Zanmai Knivesantools Exclusive

The Mcusta Zanmai Knivesandtools Exclusive is a mix of the Mcusta Zanmai Beyond and the Splash Hybrid series. The blade has a core of VG10 steel, covered by 32 layers of damascus steel. This not only gives the knives fantastic cutting capabilities, but also a wavy pattern thanks to the acid treatment. The light, thin design provides a perfect balance between precision and comfort. The handle is made of light brown hinoki wood and has an octagonal shape that feels great in hand. The bolster, red ring and mosaic pin give a stylish look. These knives combine tradition, functionality and elegance in your kitchen.

## Mcusta Zanmai product types
With the Mcusta Zanmai series, you get high-quality Japanese kitchen knives designed for ultimate precision and versatility. Below you will discover what makes each knife unique: 

### Mcusta Zanmai gyuto 
The gyuto is an all-round kitchen knife ideal for cutting meat, fish and vegetables. The long, slim blade offers control and precision, making it a favourite among chefs. 

### Mcusta Zanmai santoku 
This versatile knife is perfect for mincing, slicing and mincing meat, vegetables and herbs. The high blade and rounded tip make it a great choice for everyday kitchen tasks. 

### Mcusta Zanmai petty 
A petty knife is small and versatile, great for precision work such as peeling fruit or cutting small ingredients. It's an indispensable tool for detailed cutting tasks. 

### Mcusta Zanmai sujihiki 
The long blade of a sujihiki lets you effortlessly cut wafer-thin, straight slices of meat and fish. This knife cuts effortlessly without tearing the delicate ingredient and is indispensable when preparing sushi. 

### Mcusta Zanmai nakiri 
A nakiri is a Japanese knife, specifically designed for cutting vegetables and fish. With its straight blade, the nakiri offers quick and precise cutting movements. Ideal for those who process a lot of vegetables or often cut straight strips of vegetables.

## History of Mcusta Zanmai
Zanmai and Mcusta are closely related. These two brands are manufactured in the factory of Marusho Industry, Inc. in Seki, Japan. Seki is a town with a rich history in knife forging, dating back to the 13th century. This city is famous for its natural resources, such as iron and charcoal, and its strategic location near water, making it the ideal place for the production of fine cutting tools. The traditional techniques of old blacksmiths are still passed on, but now refined with modern technology. Marusho has been around since 1964 and has been making scissors for almost 50 years. In 2000, they started manufacturing pocket knives with Mcusta, and in 2006 they added Zanmai for kitchen knives.

Mcusta Zanmai kitchen knives

## Why choose a Kai knife? 
Kai has been making cutting tools according to the traditions of the legendary Samurai of ancient Japan for over 115 years. Kai kitchen knives do justice to this ancient Japanese art of forging. This forging art still forms the basis for many of their new products today. Kai aims to produce exceptional knives of the highest quality, regardless of the price range of the kitchen knife. That's why the price-quality ratio is always top-notch! 
 
Kai knives are made from natural materials, which are processed and shaped with the expertise of traditional Japanese forging. Kai kitchen knives are the epitome of Japanese craftsmanship. If that's not a reason to choose a Kai knife, we don't know what is. 
 
## Kai series 
### Kai Shun Classic 
The Shun Classic series is Kai's flagship collection. It consists of stunning kitchen knives with 32-layered damascus steel, with a core of VG-MAX steel. The handles are made from black pakka wood. These knives have a traditional D-shaped handle: a Japanese feature. This knife series is among one of the most comprehensive series in the world. 
 
### Kai Shun Classic White 
The Shun Classic series, now available in white. The Shun Classic White series consists of six beautiful kitchen knives made from 32-layers of damascus steel and a core of VG-MAX steel. The handles are made from beautiful light-coloured pakka wood, with a traditional D-shaped handle: a Japanese design 
 

### Kai Shun Pro Sho 
Kai's Shun Pro Sho series consists of premium kitchen knives with the traditional one-sided grind as is common in Japan. One side features a decorative pattern, made with an innovative etching technique. The other side is blasted to create a matt finish. The dark handles are made from beautiful pakka wood, with a traditional D-shaped handle: a Japanese design feature. 
 
### Kai Shun Nagare 
The Shun Nagare series is Kai's signature collection. These are premium-quality kitchen knives with 72-layers of damascus steel, with a pattern reminiscent of rays from the rising sun. A paragon of Japanese forging. The handle features a Western design and is as aesthetically pleasing as the blade. 
 
### Kai Shun Premier Tim Mälzer 
The Shun Premier Tim Mälzer series is an extensive collection of knives, developed in collaboration with German TV chef Tim Mälzer. These Kai shun knives were made according to his preferences. They feature a beautiful damascus-steel blade with hammered finish and a brown handle made from walnut wood. 
 
### Kai Shun Premier Tim Mälzer Minamo 
The Shun Premier Tim Mälzer Minamo series is a three-piece extension of the Shun Premier series. These knives are an artistic combination of Japanese style and European design, featuring distinctive high blades. The combination of black pakka wood and the damascus pattern has turned this Kai shun knife into a unique work of art. 
 
### Kai Tim Mälzer Kamagata 
The Tim Mälzer Kamagata series is a budget-friendly collection of knives that prioritises functionality, high quality and minimalist aesthetics. . There is a knife for every cutting task. The name 'Kamagata' comes from the knives' characteristic straight edges. 
 
### Kai Seki Magoroku Composite 
The Seki Magoroko Composite series is a hybrid knife series. Unique within Kai's range, this collection of knives features a distinctive ornate copper line on the blade. It is the dividing line between the two types of steel that were used for the blade. Hence the name 'Composite'. 
 
### Kai Seki Magoroku Redwood 

The Seki Maroku Redwood series is a budget-friendly series, prioritising sharpness and functionality, recognizable by its reddish-brown D-shaped handle made from pakka wood. The design combines a minimalist basic design with traditional Japanese aesthetics. 
 
### Kai Seki Magoroku Shoso 
The Seki Magoroku Shoso collection distinguishes itself from other Kai collections with its striking design. Completely made from stainless steel and with an ergonomically shaped, non-slip handle. These are truly unique Japanese knives. 
 

### Kai Seki Magoroku Kinju & Hekiju 
The Seki Moroku Kunju & Hekiju series was specially designed for cutting meat and fish. Therefore, you will mainly find debas and yanagibas, which are traditional Japanese knives for this intended use. The blades are made of highly corrosion-resistant steel. 
 
### Kai Wasabi Black 
The Wasabi series is an extensive collection. It has everything from santokus to 5-piece knife sets. If you're looking for an inexpensive and high-quality Japanese kitchen knife, look no further. This series is perfect for beginning chefs and amateur chefs. 
 
### Kai Michel Bras 
The Michel Bras series was specifically designed to suit the wishes and requirements of French chef Michel Bras. These premium knives are breathtakingly beautiful. These knives feature a laminated, black wooden handle and a blade with a black titanium coating. Each knife comes with a unique serial number: that's how special they are! 
 

## Kai product types 
Kai's range is immense! In addition to knife collections, Kai also excels in the amount of product types they offer. We've listed a few of these for your convenience. 
 

### Kai chef's knives 

When it comes to high-quality Japanese kitchen knives, Kai is at the absolute top. So with a Kai Shun chef's knife, you are in the right place. From entry-level series for the amateur chef, to professional chef's knives for accomplished chefs. 

 

### Kai santoku knives 

With a major Japanese brand like Kai, the iconic santoku is a must. The santoku is the Japanese version of a European chef’s knife. They are extremely versatile kitchen knives. Ideal for cutting, crushing and scooping meat, fish and vegetables. 

 

### Kai nakiri knives 

The nakiri should not be missing from the Kai range either. A nakiri knife is a traditional Japanese vegetable knife, recognisable by its rectangular blade. This is without doubt the knife with which you can effortlessly chop all kinds of vegetables. 

 

### Kai bread knives 

Kai bread knives are knives with which you can cut all types of bread. From hard crusts to soft buns, from bread rolls to freshly baked bread. Even hard vegetables like pumpkin can be effortlessly cut with a bread knife from Kai. 

 

### Kai knife sets 
With many sets and series to choose from, there is a suitable knife set for everyone. A knife set is often not only more affordable, it also looks great when your kitchen knives match. We sell all knife sets from Kai. From basic sets to everything you need in the kitchen. 
 

### Kai accessories 
Though Kai is known for their sublime kitchen knives, but they also offer many accessories. For example, beautiful knife blocks or stunning knife guards for storing your knives. There are also cheese graters and cutting boards. Kai accessories complete your kitchen! 
 
## History of Kai 
Kai was founded in Seki City, Japan. The forests and water sources in and around Seki are what made the town the perfect base for swordsmiths. During the Meiji period (1868 - 1912) a law was implemented prohibiting the samurai from carrying swords. As a result, swordsmiths were forced to convert their sword-making skills to cutlery, kitchen knives and other cutting tools. 
 
Under these circumstances, Saijiro Endo's older brother opened a factory to produce folding knives. Once he finished school, Saijiro started working in the factory. During his eight-year apprenticeship, he learned the craft and got married. At the age of 20, he opened his own small factory in 1908. That's how Kai started out. After the start of World War I, demand for knives dramatically increased. Despite many difficulties, Saijiro persevered in his craft. His hard work paid off. After producing a very popular folding knife, his fame increased, and he became the number one knife manufacturer in Japan.

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