Ever since I become aware of this fine knife over a year ago, I've been drooling all over it. After owning a few other sakimaru takohikis and still feeling wanting it, I finally pulled the trigger and bought the Rinka.
It is beautifully finished with mirror finishing on the hira and the proportion of the blade is just perfect. Compared with the other 390mm sakimaru takohiki I have, Rinka's blade shape is a bit slenderer, which is just the way I like it. I also love the cherry blossom and the poem engraved on the knife. The snug friction fit between the saya and the choil is a pleasant surprise, unlike other knives and sayas needing a pin to secure the saya to the knife. The lacquered finish of the saya and the handle is also beautifully done.
My order was shipped promptly and arrived within two days after I placed the order.
Overall, this has been a wonderful purchase !! No, this Rinka will never be used. It will sit on my shelf as a prized collector item.