[Kanetaka] Right-Handed Japanese Razor 57mm (2.2") Blue Paper Steel [KNT020201]

Built for a Longer Edge

About the Kanetaka Japanese Razor Series

Kanetaka's razors are made through a division of labor between two masters working under one roof: a forge master and a sharpening master. The range spans from a single laminated flagship model, its stingray-skin handle bound in rattan and finished as much for the collection as for daily use, down through three working-grade razors with rubber handles, sized by the traditional chogake system, which measures a kamisori by its edge length rather than its overall length.

Sharpening a straight razor is widely considered difficult, and that reputation is fair. On many razors, the hardened steel near the very tip wears thin after repeated honing, making the edge harder to bring back each time. Kanetaka's blades keep that hardened layer present closer to the tip itself, so the razor stays straightforward to resharpen over years of use. This traces directly back to more than two centuries the house has spent doing nothing but sharpening.

These are primarily tools for professional barbers — shaving the head, trimming a mustache, removing fine hair — and for those already experienced with a traditional straight razor.

About [Kanetaka] Right-Handed Japanese Razor 57mm (2.2") Blue Paper Steel

At 57mm, this is the longest edge in Kanetaka's working-grade lineup, cut from Blue Paper Steel and set on a rubber handle built for daily professional use. The extra length suits larger hands and builds, including many Western customers.

How to Maintain Your Kanetaka Japanese Razor

Does it rust easily?
As a high-carbon steel, it can rust if left unattended. Wipe the blade dry after each use.

What if the edge starts to dull?
Sharpen it with a whetstone.

What if I don't use it often?
Wrap it in oiled paper and store it that way between uses.

About Kanetaka: A Kyoto Blacksmith with 350 Years of History

Kanetaka is a Kyoto blacksmith with a history spanning more than 350 years. By recorded lineage alone, it stands as a long-established house of seven generations, over 200 years.

The shop and workshop sit directly in front of the head family of Ikenobo, the founding school of Japanese flower arrangement. It is a blacksmith rooted in the same soil that has shaped Kyoto's tradition of flower arrangement.

Today, the eldest son, Kazuhiro Yamada, carries on the sharpening technique, while the second son, Yoshitaka Yamada, works as the blacksmith. Each brother handles a different stage of the process, and together they bring a single piece to completion.

Alongside traditional items such as Japanese razors and Ikenobo scissors, made using techniques learned from specialists, Kanetaka also produces a range of idea goods, including herb clips, pencil sharpeners, and reed knives for wind instruments, building on traditional craftsmanship to create a broad range of tools.

Notes on use

Important: This razor is made of high-carbon steel, not stainless steel, and is extremely sharp. Handle it with care at all times.
Use only on human hair. Do not use it for any other purpose.
Do not twist or lever the blade.
Do not drop it.
If you are not a trained professional, exercise extreme caution, and consider consulting a licensed barber before using it on skin.
It rusts easily; wipe it dry after every use.
If used infrequently, wrap it in oiled paper for storage.
Store closed and out of the reach of children.