Sujihiki • 260 mm • SPG STRIX • 63 layers • stabilized wooden handle • for both left and right-handed use

Features of the Gurenhiryu series

Ryusen uses the ''relatively'' new SPG STRIX steel for this series, it has almost the same properties as SG2 steel, but SPG STRIX has a hardening hardness of HRC65. While SG2 has an HRC of 64. The beautiful shape of the blade, reminiscent of the curvature of a Japanese sword, maintains a good space between the handle and the cutting board, creating an innovative style. The glittering pattern on the border between the blade and the handle is applied by hand one by one by craftsmen and is inspired by flames (blazes) that express the maker's passion for craftsmanship and the user's passion for cooking.

The handle is made of stabilized wood, using the natural wood "poplar". Stabilized wood is wood that has been stabilized by soaking it in resin and hardening it. The uneven density in the wood causes differences in how the resin penetrates, creating a unique and complex pattern that makes the most of the texture of natural wood. By soaking the poplar with a red resin, a beautiful pattern is created with red stained grain and knots.

Elwin de Veld on Ryusen knives

When I started sharpening knives, I sometimes got my hands on a special model. A knife from Ryusen was one of them. To measure the exact quality of steel, there is no better gauge than actually sharpening a knife by hand: Ryusen is among the absolute top in the world of chef's knives.

Until recently, Ryusen made various models for the guild in Echizen, but recently they have focused entirely on their own company. Ryusen has spent a lot of time researching the manufacturing process (forging, hardening, grinding and finishing), but also receiving feedback from the professional end user. Their dedication, perseverance and only settling for the very best, ensure that each knife is perfectly finished and meets the highest demands of a completely handmade chef's knife. The entire process from forging to designing the box is carried out in-house by Ryusen. I am very proud to be an importer of Ryusen.