Takami, たかみ, Handmade Japanese Straight Razor - Kamisori - traditional grind

Similar to the traditional Samurai sword, this Kamisori was hand forged out of 2 layers, the cutting part is made of high carbon steel (White Paper Steel No 1) and the supporting layer of wrought Iron (Jigane)
The steel layer is brittle and hard, while the Iron gives the right flexibility.
Both layers are not stainless, so always keep your razor dry after your shave and protect it with a thin layer of oil.
Why is this blade not stainless? Stainless blades are made of an alloy that will prevent it from staining, but also will make it less hard. High carbon steels, like the cutting layer of this Kamisori, have a much higher hardness and will keep their smooth shaving quality for much longer before having to sharpen them again.

Mr Amano makes all his blades close to Kochi City in his own workshop on a hill overseeing a small city at the Pacific Ocean. He operates his furnace entirely with local charcoal and makes all his razors alone. The razors are quenched in rainwater.
We recently visited him and could witness his craftsmanship, His shop is far away from any trouble of modern day cities and he can fully concentrate on his product. Besides razors he also produces a variety of farming and gardening tools.

The blade comes in a sliding lid box signed by Mr. Amano.

The engraving on the razor means:
白一・shiro ichi ・white paper steel #1
天・the logo of Takami ・literally means heaven/sky
天水作・takami saku・made by Takami

If you would like one of our self made Hinoki boxes in addition, feel free to contact us prior to the purchase. we have a variety of designs and can also personalise the box as a gift for the person you would like to gift this great razor to.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions regarding this wonderful Kamisori and its usage. We are happy to assist you.

Steel/鋼: White paper steel #1・白紙鋼1号
Jigane/地金: Modern soft iron・極軟鉄
Box: Paulownia tomentosa wood

Length: 16.9 cm
Head width: 2.9 cm
Length of cutting edge: 5.5
Weight 51.9 g