This honyaki was forged from old stock W2 tool steel and differentially hardened using clay on the spine and quenching in a commercial quenchant. This steel was made in the 70s and I acquired a small chunk of it from a die maker. The hamon this steel takes is quite unique as the ashi is almost 3D looking. Once the steel was hardened I then polished and etched the steel which makes the hamon prominent. The edge this steel takes is very keen. The handle on this fossilized mammoth ivory which has a very dark color from the minerals leaching into it. These scales are quite stunning in person. This knife is full tang and has a full convex grind. I would consider this to a normal grind suitable for general kitchen use.

Measurements:

Blade Length: 220mm
Handle Length: 117mm
Out of the handle: 3.28mm
Middle of blade: 2.45mm
Spine @ 4cm from tip: 1.90mm
Spine @ 2cm from tip:1.32mm
Weight: 256g