1 of 1, this is our fully reworked version of the Sentan cleaver by Hatsukokoro — not a simple handle swap, but a complete refinement done in-house.
We removed the original plain handle, reground the tang and mounted the blade on a modern custom handle to answer repeated client requests for a more contemporary look. From there, the real work began. The blade was carefully reground to raise the shinogi line, requiring a full rebalancing of the geometry to maintain strength while improving cutting efficiency and food release. In addition to a bevel finished on a #8000 grit stone, this isn’t just cosmetic — it fully changes how this knife moves through ingredients.
The factory finish was then reworked by hand. We smoothed and unified the surface to elevate the overall presentation, while intentionally preserving the forged character and rustic texture that give the Sentan its identity. The goal was never to erase tradition, but to refine it.
Forged in Japan from White #2 (Shirogami) carbon steel and hardened to around 61 HRC, the blade offers exceptional sharpness, easy maintenance, and the crisp, responsive feedback that makes carbon steel so satisfying to use. It takes a very fine edge and rewards proper sharpening with outstanding performance.
The tall cleaver profile provides generous knuckle clearance and strong board authority, while the updated geometry delivers a noticeably smoother, more controlled cutting experience compared to the original factory grind.
Hatsukokoro, based in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, collaborates with skilled craftsmen across Japan to produce reliable, performance-driven blades. This piece builds on that foundation — adding hours of careful modification and finishing work to create something more exclusive.
Traditional at its core, elevated by hand, and finished with intent.
