Takeshi Saji Rainbow Santoku 18 cm Aogami #2 Octagon

The Takeshi Saji Rainbow Santoku 18 cm Aogami #2 is a distinctive Japanese kitchen knife that combines strong cutting performance with striking visual character. The Santoku profile makes it well suited for everyday preparation of vegetables, meat, and fish, offering excellent control and clean, consistent cuts.

Hand forged by Takeshi Saji, the blade features a core of Aogami #2 carbon steel, valued for its edge retention and responsive cutting feel. Heat treated to approximately 63 plus minus 1 HRC, the blade delivers stable sharpness and reliable performance. Stainless steel cladding is layered with copper and brass, forming the unmistakable Rainbow Damascus pattern that flows along the length of the blade and makes each knife visually unique.

A consistent flat grind visible from the choil contributes to efficient cutting and clean food separation. The knife is fitted with an octagonal rosewood handle, lighter than the western style handles often used by Saji. This shifts the balance slightly forward and gives the knife a nimble and controlled feel in hand.

Specifications

• Brand: Takeshi Saji
• Origin made in: Japan
• Knife type: Santoku
• Blade length: 18.0 cm
• Overall length: 32.2 cm
• Blade height at heel: 4.9 cm
• Blade height mid: 4.4 cm
• Spine thickness at heel: 2.7 mm
• Spine thickness mid: 2.0 mm
• Handle length: 12.6 cm
• Handle: octagonal, rosewood
• Steel: Aogami number two core, stainless cladding
• Blade finish: Rainbow Damascus
• Hardness: approximately 63 HRC
• Grind: double bevel
• Weight: 136 g