About Masakage Zero - 

The first thing that sold me on the Zero is how fantastic they feel when you pick them up. The contoured handle fits so smoothly in your hand, with some added confidence and heft thanks to 

the European-inspired full-tang handle. Desert Ironwood is the seventh hardest wood in the world (bet you didn't know that?), and it’s as durable as it is gorgeous.

The blade is no slouch, either. Aogami Super is the king of knife steels—easy to sharpen, crazy sharp, and much easier to care for than other carbon steels. It is clad in softer stainless steel, so only the edge has to be kept dry to prevent rust. Whether this is your first knife or your fifteenth, it’s sure to be the crown jewel in your collection.

Takeshi Saji-san started learning to work the forge under his father in 1966 at the age of 16. At 30, he succeeded his master and is the third-generation blacksmith in his family. 

Even after several decades of practice, Saji-san continuously strives to forge a better blade.

He loves a challenge and is always looking for new technology and techniques to improve his work. 

About the Shape - Santoku means 'Three Virtues' or 'To solve Three Problems'. The three virtues are meat, fish and vegetables, or slicing, dicing and mincing depending on your interpretation. This means that the Santoku is an all-around knife, suitable for the amateur home cook and the professional chef alike. The heigh means good clearance for big hands, while the relatively short blade can be wielded by anyone.