A Western-Style Knife with Honba-zuke? Hamaguri Edge? The “Yoko-Hama” Experiment
January 13, 2023
I received an order for a Gyuto and Sujihiki from the father of a friend.
He requested knives that could cut with exceptional sharpness, so I decided to create an edge that was both extremely sharp and strong.
For the Sujihiki, I assumed it would not frequently come into contact with a cutting board, so I sharpened it closer to the style of a Japanese single-bevel knife and reinforced the edge with an ura-ito finish.
As expected, creating a single-bevel-like edge increased the sharpness.
For the Gyuto, I applied a Hamaguri edge and an additional fine edge from both sides, aiming to achieve both durability and smooth food release, while also improving the initial bite of the blade.
I simply widened the existing shinogi line of the Gyuto, but the result was an incredibly satisfying cutting feel.
I also widened the tip area to improve the release of the blade through ingredients.
This does not mean that I simply made the edge thinner.
Instead, I added a taper to the shinogi line.
The goal was to create a horizontal release effect during push cutting — almost like a Hamaguri edge working sideways.
The image is of the blade opening its way through the food as it moves forward.
I wonder how much of an effect such a small adjustment can have.
I am eager to deliver the knife and hear the user’s thoughts.
At the same time, I am slightly concerned that I may have gone too far.
However, if this horizontal Hamaguri effect proves successful, it may become a new style of sharpening.
For now, I will call it “Yoko-Hama” (Horizontal Hamaguri).
The traditional style would be “Tate-Hama” (Vertical Hamaguri)…
Hmm.
Perhaps I should think of a better name.
Daily practice
November 21, 2006
Good evening.
It seems that photos and comments can now be added.
I have another reason to look forward to visiting your blog.
Western-style knives are actually my area of expertise, so I will continue to use your sharpening methods as a reference.
November 23, 2006
Thank you for your comment.
The “Yoko-Hama” and “Tate-Hama” concepts are still in the experimental stage, so I am not yet certain how they will perform.
However, please give it a try and let me know your thoughts.
