Size
180mm
Overall length
318mm
Blade height
51mm
Handle to tip length
185mm
Thickness
2.8mm
Edge length
168mm
Weight
168 g
Handle length
133mm
Steel
Shirogami #1 with stainless steel cladding
Steel Type
Semi-stainless
Handle length
Nashiji
Profile
Yoshikazu Tanaka
Usage
All purpose
Hand Orientation
Ambidextrous
Production
Sakai/Osaka
ACCESSORIES RECOMMENDED BY OUR EXPERTS
INTRODUCTION TO THE BUNKA KNIFE
The Art of Precise and Elegant Cutting Stay Sharp's Bunka knife collection is a tribute to the tradition and ingenuity of Japanese craftsmanship. This type of Japanese knife is distinguished by its versatility, aesthetics, and ability to make clean cuts with remarkable efficiency. Originally designed as an all-purpose knife, the Bunka knife is ideal for several culinary tasks: precisely chopping vegetables, slicing meat or fish. Its recognizable shape, with an angular tip called a "k-tip," makes it as practical as it is elegant. "K-tip" refers to Kiritsuke, a Japanese blade style with a straight, angular tip, inspired by knives used in the Kantō region.
QUALITY OF MANUFACTURING AND ARTISANAL DESIGN
Each of the finest Bunka knives in our collection is crafted from premium Japanese steels—whether stainless or carbon—selected for their ability to maintain a lasting sharpness. The blade is carefully forged, often by hand, by artisans who maintain traditional Japanese knifemaking techniques.
Stay Sharp's partner blacksmiths often have decades of experience, ensuring not only blade quality but also consistent performance. The result is a knife that's both strong and sharp, capable of handling intensive daily use. Its slightly rounded blade allows for efficient swinging movements, while its width makes it easy to retrieve sliced food.
FEATURES AND CONCLUSION
The best Bunka knife is immediately recognizable by its pronounced angular tip (k-tip). This particular geometry allows for precision cuts, particularly for trimming vegetables, removing membranes, or working close to bones with control. Unlike rounded-blade knives designed for a rocking motion, the Bunka favors fluid and controlled movements, from top to bottom, pulling towards you or pushing. Its relatively short blade, often between 165 and 180 mm, combined with a good height, gives it excellent lateral stability, which makes it easier to guide the knife by resting the side of the blade on the knuckles. This compact size also allows for great maneuverability, particularly useful in tight spaces or home kitchens.
Chefs trained in kaiseki or washoku cuisine often use a Bunka knife for intermediate tasks, taking advantage of its balance between finesse and strength. Key features of the Bunka collection:
- Blades made of high quality Japanese steel (stainless steel, carbon steel or powder steel)
- Angled tip (K-Tip) for precision cuts
- Ergonomic handle for optimal comfort
- Traditional design with a contemporary twist
- Suitable for professionals and passionate cooks alike
Whether you're new to Japanese knives or looking to diversify your kitchen arsenal, the best Bunka knife is a strategic choice. Its short, agile blade, combined with a sharp point, offers rare versatility for specific cuts and everyday tasks. It's an excellent Santoku replacement for those who prefer a knife with more precision. It's suitable for both professionals and avid cooks who want to gain efficiency without sacrificing control. Add a Bunka knife to your collection now and transform your cooking routine into a smooth, precise, and rewarding experience.
Discover our collection of the best Bunka knives at Stay Sharp—where tradition meets modern culinary performance.