Mazaki

Mazaki is a one-man operation based in Sanjo, Niigata. His knife is artistically beautful, and from the very beginning with very high level of Fit and Finish. I didn't look further into it as its cutting style was not my preference.

A while ago I was able to sample his latest work and was thoroughly impressed by how much it has improved. His knife now cuts much better than his earlier ones. I am particularly impressed that Mazaki's knife is largely finished on a stone by hand, while it is a much more time consuming process, such process ensures the knife is straight and flat with minimal low spots. We are talking about a type of finishing that is very much like Shigefusa's final handle sharpening process (albeit not the same level of polishing), rather than a water grinder sharpening process, which creates uneveness and low spots along the blade road, and sometimes even worse: over-grind. Given the effort that Mazaki-san has put in, the production is understandably very limited, and given the low price, I am sure his work will be highly thought after veyr soon.

Naoki Mazaki is a distinguished blacksmith from Sanjo, Niigata, Japan, known for his dedication to traditional knife-making techniques. Mazaki-san began his journey as an apprentice at Yoshikane Hamono, where he honed his skills before establishing his own workshop. He specializes in crafting knives using Shirogami (White #2) and Aogami (Blue #2) steels, often incorporating iron cladding for added durability and a unique aesthetic.

Mazaki's knives are renowned for their exceptional sharpness, edge retention, and balance. Each blade is meticulously hand-forged and hand-finished, ensuring that no two knives are identical. His process involves traditional methods, including hand-polishing on Japanese natural whetstones, which contributes to the superior quality and performance of his knives.

One of his signature products, the Kurouchi Nashiji Gyuto, exemplifies his craftsmanship. This 240mm chef's knife features a rustic kurouchi finish. The blade, made from Shirogami #2 steel, offers excellent sharpness and edge retention, making it ideal for precise and versatile cutting tasks in the kitchen.

Mazaki's dedication to traditional craftsmanship and his ability to innovate within those confines have earned him a reputation as one of the leading knife makers in Japan. Whether you are a professional chef or a culinary enthusiast, a knife from Naoki Mazaki promises unparalleled quality and performance.