The Kanetsune KC953 Usubagata is a purpose-built Japanese vegetable knife designed for chefs and home cooks who demand precision, control, and lasting performance in every slice. With its 165mm blade inspired by traditional Usuba geometry and a modern hammering finish, this knife turns everyday prep into an effortless, artful process.
Why this knife stands out
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Usubagata blade profile—a refined, slender shape optimized for clean, straight cuts and meticulous vegetable prep. Ideal for peeling, trimming, and creating precise pieces with minimal waste.
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Hammered DSR-1K6 HC stainless blade—the distinctive hammered finish reduces sticking and helps slices release cleanly. The stainless steel offers dependable edge retention and corrosion resistance for daily use.
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Ergonomic wood handle with plastic guard—a comfortable grip that enhances control during long prep sessions, paired with a safety guard to protect your hand as you work.
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Balanced, compact profile—at 11.75 inches overall and 6.88 inches of blade, it strikes a balance between precision detail work and bulk vegetable prep, making it versatile in any kitchen.
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Made in Japan and boxed for gifting—crafted with traditional craftsmanship and finished with contemporary reliability, ready for storage or giving as a thoughtful kitchen gift.
What you can do with it
- Create ultra-thin carrot batons, evenly trimmed radish rounds, and pristine cucumber ribbons with minimal effort.
- Slice and pare vegetables for precise garnishes, intricate nori decorations, or decorative julienne work for chef-level plating.
- Peel and trim daikon, potato, or fennel with smooth, controlled motions that maintain texture and shape.
- Prep herbs and leafy greens—shave stems cleanly and fine-tune herb chiffonade for fragrant finishing touches.
Who benefits most
- Professional kitchens and culinary students who require a dedicated vegetable knife for precise prep.
- Home cooks who value a high-precision tool for beautiful, consistent vegetable cuts.
- Gift-givers seeking a premium, Japan-made knife that combines tradition with practical day-to-day use.
Care and use tips
- Hand wash and dry promptly to preserve the wood handle and blade finish.
- Hone regularly to maintain an optimal edge; for sharpening, follow the knife’s natural bevel and use a whetstone or preferred sharpening system suited to stainless blades.
- Store in a protective box or on a proper knife rack to prevent nicks and to protect the wooden handle.
Specifications
- Model: KC953 Usubagata
- Blade length: 6.88 inches (165 mm)
- Overall length: 11.75 inches
- Blade finish: Hammered DSR-1K6 HC stainless
- Handle: Wood with plastic guard
- Weight: 0.5 pounds
- Includes: Boxed
- Origin: Made in Japan
