Matsubara Shirogami #1 Kurouchi Stainless Clad 9.4" Gyuto

This Matsubara has quickly become one of the best push-cutting knives in my collection. The tall blade provides excellent knuckle clearance and very good feedback against the cutting board. It has enough weight to help drive the cut, but it never feels clumsy or excessively heavy.

What impresses me most is the geometry. The blade has a substantial, workhorse-like presence while remaining thin enough behind the edge to pass cleanly through vegetables without excessive wedging. It falls between my Yoshikane knives, which feel more delicate and surgical, and my Hatsukokoro Shinkiro, which has a heavier workhorse character. The Matsubara gives me an excellent balance of precision, weight and control.

The flatter profile works particularly well for push chopping. The Shirogami #1 core takes an exceptionally keen edge and is very responsive on whetstones. Edge retention may not equal some of my powdered-steel or Aogami Super knives, but the ease of sharpening and cutting performance more than compensate for that.

The kurouchi finish gives it a traditional, understated appearance, while the stainless cladding makes maintenance easier than it would be on a fully reactive blade. The exposed carbon-steel edge still needs to be washed and dried promptly.

For anyone who prefers a tall gyuto, push cuts rather than rocks, and wants some reassuring blade weight without sacrificing good geometry, this is an exceptional knife. It is one of my top gyutos and probably the best dedicated push…

As with all Matsubaras, fit and finish is well above its price point. The geometry of the nice is very good as well this is a solid choice for someone that wants a midweight workhorse without it being too heavy. A very solid recommendation for me for any of these gyutiafrom them

Great combination of a rustic finish with thoughtful details such as a rounded spine and choil. The extra blade height, along with a sharp edge out of the box, makes this knife a keeper.

I love Matsubara knives! I appreciate the extra height for knuckle clearance over the cutting board. It has a somewhat flatter profile which works great for push chopping which is my primary style. I sliced up a watermelon last weekend and it worked fantastic too!