Spyderco Itamae Series Bunka Bocho Knife - 7.72" Super Blue/SUS410 Blade, Burl and Black G10 Handle - K18GPBNBK

Master bladesmith Murray Carter devoted nearly two decades of his life to studying the skills and culture of traditional knifemaking in Japan. The designated heir to a 420-year-old family tradition, he holds the elite title of the 17th Generation Yoshimoto Bladesmith. He is also a Master Smith in the American Bladesmith Society and is recognized as one of the world's leading experts on Japanese kitchen cutlery.

Through an unprecedented collaboration, Spyderco has faithfully translated the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail of Carter's exquisite handmade patterns to a breathtaking series of production knives known as the Murray Carter Collection.

Manufactured in Japan to Spyderco's exacting quality standards, the Murray Carter Collection includes Carter's highly refined expressions of five traditional Japanese kitchen knife patterns. Specifically chosen to excel at all types of food preparation, this formidable family of knives will ultimately be available in three different product tiers.

Literally meaning "in front of the cutting board," Itamae is an extremely prestigious title reserved for highly skilled sushi chefs. Consistent with that elite status, the Murray Carter Collection's Itamae Series —the highest tier in the Collection—proudly features premium materials and uncompromising craftsmanship.

The blades of Itamae Series knives are expertly crafted from laminated steel consisting of an Aogami Super Blue core clad between layers of SUS410 stainless steel. This classic three-layer construction allows the outer layers to protect and support the ultra-hard carbon-steel center layer that forms the blade's edge. Ground exceptionally thin and straight for unparalleled cutting performance, the blades also feature Murray Carter's signature "Carter Elbow"—a distinctive taper from the spine to the point that reinforces the blade's tip.

The elite blades of the Itamae Series are paired with traditional "wa"-style (octagonal) handles made from stunning burl G10 and highlighted with black G10 ferrules.

Created for those who demand the very best, the Itamae Series faithfully captures the spirit of Murray Carter's coveted handmade knives and sets a new standard in high-performance kitchen cutlery.