- Joined
- Feb 28, 2011
- Messages
- 6,006
- Reaction score
- 213
I was lucky enough to get one of the two prototype Tanaka Ginsan Nashiji gyutos that were modified by Knives & Stones, and I want to share a comparison of a NIB Tanaka I happened to have and the modified one. Both are 240 wa-gyutos.
As I was informed, there were no changes made to the profile or geometry of the stock blade, only fit and finish modifications. The nashjii finish of the side of the blade was left as is.
The most obvious difference is the replacement of the stock d-handle of ho wood and a horn ferrule with a custom octagonal handle, in this case of gidgee and a brass ferrule cap.
The handle is very nicely executed, and feels much better than the stock handle. My only issue with the handle is that the slot for the tang could be cleaner, but it is no worse than the stock version. As this is a prototype, the follow on versions could possibly address this.
Gidgee is denser than ho wood, and this adds 37 grams to the weight of the knife and moves the balance point from 53 cm ahead fo the ferrule to 29 cm.
The spine is nicely rounded, as is the choil area. Gone are the sharp edges that are the usual hallmark of an inexpensive knife.
If I'm correct, Knives & Stones will be offering both the ginsan and the damascus blue versions with these semi-custom modifications. Yes, you could round the spine and chill area on your own, and upgrade the handle, but not for anywhere near what Knives & Stones is asking for these knives.
Rick
As I was informed, there were no changes made to the profile or geometry of the stock blade, only fit and finish modifications. The nashjii finish of the side of the blade was left as is.
The most obvious difference is the replacement of the stock d-handle of ho wood and a horn ferrule with a custom octagonal handle, in this case of gidgee and a brass ferrule cap.
The handle is very nicely executed, and feels much better than the stock handle. My only issue with the handle is that the slot for the tang could be cleaner, but it is no worse than the stock version. As this is a prototype, the follow on versions could possibly address this.
Gidgee is denser than ho wood, and this adds 37 grams to the weight of the knife and moves the balance point from 53 cm ahead fo the ferrule to 29 cm.
The spine is nicely rounded, as is the choil area. Gone are the sharp edges that are the usual hallmark of an inexpensive knife.
If I'm correct, Knives & Stones will be offering both the ginsan and the damascus blue versions with these semi-custom modifications. Yes, you could round the spine and chill area on your own, and upgrade the handle, but not for anywhere near what Knives & Stones is asking for these knives.
Rick