Suncraft Senzo Retro Bunka Knife

Suncraft’s Senzo Retro Bunka, hand-forged in Seki City, Japan, not only looks gorgeous but is a joy to use. At 6.5 inches long, the nimble blade features a three-layer blade construction (coined “san mai”) that sandwiches harder G3 steel between softer, protective layers. The core is made of Ginsan steel—one of the best stainless steels available in Japan—which ensures the durable blade needs minimal honing and maintenance. And what makes it “retro?” Look for the rough, rustic finish above the blade’s polished edge, dubbed “nashiji” or pear skin; this pattern is a throwback to knife designs popular in Japan decades ago. Plus, the texture has a purpose: Pockets of air get trapped between the blade and food being cut, so nothing will cling when sliced.

The bunka features an angular tip and wide blade for intuitive and comfortable slicing, dicing and chopping. It’s great for precise prep work, like peeling garlic or trimming mushrooms, and long enough for big tasks, too. The finely pointed tip is just right for trimming, deboning and scoring meat or fish. The blade is finished with an octagonal wa-style (wa means “Japanese”) handle made of wenge, a beautiful grained wood known for its hardness and water resistance. We like that the octagonal shape fills the creases of your palm and provides a grippy surface.