Tools

Behind the Design: The Bunka Knife

Learn about our favorite design features that make up the newest addition to our limited-edition knife collection.

By Cameron DayApr 9, 2024
Various kitchen knives and sharpening tools are organized neatly on a grid background.
Share This Article

Play Video

In this article, weโ€™ll be diving headfirst into the design of our newest knife, the Japanese Bunka Blade, made in Seki City, Japan. Weโ€™ll be highlighting three of its most unique features, and why it's a must-have for anybody who appreciates the finer things in life, like a full-tang Damascus blade made for everything under the sunโ€”chopping, slicing, dicing, or mincing.

Crafted in Seki City, Japan

A close-up view of a chef's hands cutting a piece of meat on a wooden board with a large serrated knife that has "MADE IN" written on its side.

Our Bunka Knife is a testament to the refined precision of Japanese craftsmanship. Each blade in this limited runโ€”only 1000 were madeโ€”comes from Seki City, known as "The City of Blades" for its legacy in blade making spanning over 800 years.

Nestled in this historic enclave, skilled artisans have honed their craft over generations, from forging traditional Samurai swords to pocket knives. When we started searching for a Japanese factory to make our blades, Seki seemed like the natural starting point.

In Seki, we discovered a multi-generational factory whose dedication to Japanese knife making mirrored the dedication of our French knife makers in Thiers, France.

With them, we've woven together passion, heritage, and design to create this limited release of knives, making sure that each one embodies the pinnacle of quality and performance weโ€™re always searching for.

Damascus Steel Mastery

A close-up view of a Japanese chef's knife with "MADE IN SEKI, JAPAN" text and a decorative pattern etched on the blade.

Each of our Bunka blades starts with a core of VG-10 fine steel, a specialized stainless steel alloy imbued with cobalt for unparalleled hardness and abrasion resistance. This core is enveloped within 66 layers of Damascus stainless steel, meticulously forged to create the iconic Damascus pattern thatโ€™s completely unique from blade to blade.

This intricate layering not only enhances the knife's aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its remarkable strength and durability. The Bunka features a traditional, thin 15-degree double-bevel Japanese blade profile fits seamlessly into our signature handle design and angled bolster, which ensures the entire blade face can be sharpened with ease.

The blade face is razor-sharp and durable, with a 58+ Rockwell hardness. Whether you're slicing vegetables or tackling tougher cuts of meat, the Bunka Knife delivers precision, reliability, and easy handling.

Thoughtfully Designed Sheath

A chef's knife with "MADE IN" etched on the blade lies next to a wooden tag with the same inscription, implying a focus on craftsmanship origin.

Protect your blade from knicks and scratches with the included sheath (or "saya"), handmade from Magnolia wood, and specifically designed for this Bunka Knife. Crafted with precision and functionality in mind, the sheath provides both secure storage and easy access, making it ideal for home chefs and professionals alike.

Why Choose Our Bunka Knife?

A finely crafted kitchen knife with a wooden handle is highlighted against a dark background with an elliptical spotlight on the blade.

Beyond its impressive craftsmanship and design, the Bunka Knife represents a commitment to culinary excellence. It's not just a tool; it's a statement that says โ€œI care about my cookware.โ€ It also makes an amazing gift for the dedicated cook in your life. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an avid home cook, the Bunka promises versatility, performance, and a touch of carefully-designed Japanese heritage in every slice.