In April, 2006, we have introduced Mr. Itou’s custom kitchen knives, hand crafted from the special R-2 powdered high-speed tool steel core blade edge hardened to HRc.62, and forge-sandwiched with 32 layered stainless Damascus steel.
You can see the details at "Mr.Itou Custom Kitchen Knives" on JCK (Our Kitchen Knife Web Shop).
The reputation and demand were terrific! We had so many good words from the users for the extremely sharp cutting and edge retention ability. The secret of this is the finest powdered steel R-2 and the forging process. He said he was first using Hitachi Blue steel (Aogami), from which he could obtain a good cutting, but it was rusty. He has then used R-1 from Kobe Steel, but it was brittle. Finally, he worked with Kobe Steel to develop new formula, R-2 that has improved and exceeded over R-1 steels.
He also found his special forging process makes it sharper and longer edge retention. Another secret is he uses a large water stone wheel with slow rotating to grind his blades, unlike the normal belt sander grinding. This will prevent over-heating the blade to ruin the proper hardness and its chemical characters.
He is also an avid hunter, and makes some Hunting knives with same R-2 blade and finish. He is also a leather craftsman, and each leather sheath is hand formed to fit each knife perfectly and hand stitched and custom engraved by him. This will be a great opportunity to obtain his superb knife for your outdoor activity.
Mr. Itou becomes 80 years old in 2022. In late 2020, we have introduced his last batch and announced he will retire from knife making for his age and health condition. However, the good news is he will slow down and continue to make some knives as long as his health condition and knife-making passion allows. It is like his lifetime hobby!
Earlier this year 2024, Mr. Itou welcomed two adorable puppies into his life, and they’ve brought a new wave of energy and joy to his daily routine! Feeling more active and inspired than ever, he’s been pouring his passion into crafting knives and kitchen blades.
Working alongside Mr. Nagata, his trusted apprentice of over 15 years, Mr. Itou approaches each day with fresh enthusiasm, continuing to create his remarkable knives with care and precision.
While the number of knives he can produce this year is limited, we’re thrilled to see his dedication and are excited to continue sharing his exceptional craftsmanship and introducing his new knife collections with you for many more years to come.
In celebration of the upcoming New Year 2025 and in honor of Mr. Itou's health and passion, we are pleased to announce a Limited Countdown Special Sale on Mr. Itou's Custom Knife Collections. All of Mr. Itou's custom knives are now available at a special discounted price, and each piece is available in limited quantities.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of Mr. Itou's legendary work at an exclusive price. Thank you for your continued support, and we wish you a happy and healthy New Year!
