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Japanese Boning Knives (Honesuki)

Japanese Boning knives, known as Honesuki are, as the name suggests, used for deboning whole animals. The Honesuki typically has a thicker spine than most Western-style knives, allowing it to cut through cartilage similar to the Deba, while the incredibly sharp drop tip of the Boning knife can be used for articulate slicing.

Japanese Boning knives, known as Honesuki are, as the name suggests, used for deboning whole animals. The Honesuki typically has a thicker spine than most Western-style knives, allowing it to cut through cartilage similar to the Deba, while the incredibly sharp drop tip of the Boning knife can be used for articulate slicing.

The Form and Function of the Japanese Boning Knife

In the revered culinary realm of Japan, where precision and craftmanship intertwine to create delectable dishes, these knives emerge as indispensable instruments in both form and function. Embodying the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to perfection that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition, these knife blades are a testament to the profound respect for ingredients and the devotion to refining every step in the culinary process.

Crafted with mastery, these Boning knives are used as extensions of the chef’s hands and move together with him as if they were one. Their essence lies in their manufacturing and refined knife blade-making techniques, fostering a connection to a rich history that continues to resonate today. Each blade is forged with precision allowing for precise deboning with minimal effort.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A Honesuki knife is typically shorter and more angled than a Gyuto Chef's knife. These Boning knives also normally have a slightly thicker spine and are a bit more durable than Gyuto's which are designed to be used on meat that has already been removed from the bone.

Japanese Boning knives, known as Honesuki, are as the name suggests, used for deboning whole animals. The sharp tip and blade angle allow for ease of use when separating the meat from the bone for poultry or fish.

Honesuki is the name of Japanese Boning knives. They are found  in both double-beveled as well as single-bevel designs. While the majority of Honesuki are stainless steel, you can find high carbon steel Honesuki that have a razor sharp edge.

The first step we recommend at Hasu-Seizo is to pick the right steel type for your circumstances. If you are looking for ease of use and a knife that will do the job without much fuss, we recommend a stainless steel variety. If you are looking for a razor-sharp edge and don’t mind a little more care and maintenance, the high-carbon may be the correct knife for you.

You may also notice the handles can be different; if you are used to a full tang Western-style handle, and that is what feels comfortable for you, by all means, that’s the right choice! However, if you are looking for something with a little more forward weighting and has the length to fit a larger hand, check out the Japanese traditional handles.

If you have any questions about choosing the right Japanese Boning knife online, we are here to assist. Please contact us with any questions, we would love to help!

Caring for your knife properly is crucial to guarantee its performance for many years. We recommend you hand wash your blade with warm water and dry with a soft tea towel. It should never be placed in a dishwasher and stored in a dry environment, away from moisture. Periodic applications of Tsubaki Camellia Oil will also help prevent rust and corrosion in particular for high-carbon knives. 

If the Japanese Boning knife you purchase is high-carbon steel, we recommend wiping off excess moisture immediately after use  because they are more prone to corrosion. High-carbon knives tend to form a patina; this is not bad and can help protect the blade from rust and corrosion

Your blade should also be periodically sharpened with a whetstone, providing a better quality edge and lasting longer than an electric sharpener or honing rod.