Yoshimi Kato AS/S Nashiji Ko-Bunka 130mm

About Yoshimi Kato – Second careers are often the best. I know of a burned-out chef, for example, who owns a few knife shops now. Then there’s Yoshimi Kato, who left his job as the project manager of a construction company to become a blacksmith after marrying Hiroshi Kato’s daughter.
Normally, it takes apprentices some 10 – 15 years to become pros, but Kato-san did it in just 5 years, and is now running the show. He forges most of the Masakage Kiri, Yuki, and Koishi knives that were once his father-in-law’s domain. Kato-san also brings a very special level of professionalism and care to his customers’ orders, ensuring that each and every finished blade fully meets his exacting quality standards. 

About the Shape – The Ko-Bunka is a smaller version of a Bunka. Any guesses on what “Ko” means in Japanese? You nailed it! It translates to “small.” This little knife is awesome because it still gives you knuckle clearance on the cutting board. Making sure you can mince garlic and comfortably chop veggies. A badass love child of the Bunka and Petty knife, it works for smaller jobs in the hand or as an all-purpose blade.