Kiridashi Craft Pocket Knife Japanese Steel Blade Wooden Handle with Sheath for Left-handed

I overlooked the fact that this Kiridashi was hollow ground on the tapered side of the single edged blade! It came sharp out of the box and I had it scary sharp in about 10 minutes of final finishing and stropping! The difference between Japanese quality and the Chinese junk which is on the market today is astounding There was a time when I thought little of Japanese tools until I bought a few and found out that they were, in fact, well made, well tempered, and made of quality high carbon steel and last many times longer, before needing immediate attention with re-sharpening and/or stropping than the Chinese copies. For the price, this kiridashi is one of the very best in my collection of daily used cutting tools in my leather shop today!

It's a decent inexpensive knife. I checked the hardness, and got over 60 Rockwell C which makes me concerned that it will be brittle, but that remains to be seen. The blade had some warp, and it took a while with diamond plate, water stone and strop to flatten and polish the back and bevel. Now I will see how it holds an edge. The handle and blade guard seem adequate.

I picked this item because it's for left-handed use for me. Rather disappointed it cost more than the same right handed knife and thats unfair I believe. I'm gemerally happy with the pirchase.

I'd give this knife 6 stars, already ordered another with the plastic handle. I sharpened the blade closest to the handle that is not part of the sharpened blade, on the opposite side so I can use it when detail carving towards myself instead of having to grab another knife. (See video), yes this is the left handed version. It came very sharp from the seller, I've since sharpened it. It takes an edge very easily and also stays sharp even after a lot of carving wood. This is a steal for Japanese steel.

As others have noted, there are defects in the blade such as minor warping and uneven grind but what is important to know is steel quality. I can dealt with the defects by sharpening to even out the blade and it’s ok because of the price. You aren’t paying a lot for it so don’t gripe about it.