Kamo Shiro

Kamo Shiro represents three generations of traditional Japanese bladesmithing excellence, operating from the renowned Takefu Knife Village cooperative in Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture. As a third-generation master blacksmith awarded the prestigious Dento-Kogei-shi (Master of Traditional Crafts) status, Shiro Kamo has established himself as one of Japan's most respected knifemakers and formerly served as chairman of the Takefu Knife Village Association.

Working within the collaborative environment of Takefu Knife Village, Kamo specializes in handmade kitchen knives that showcase traditional Japanese forging techniques combined with practical modern considerations. His signature approach involves stainless-clad carbon core construction, which provides the superior edge retention and sharpenability of high-carbon steel while offering easier maintenance for working chefs. Kamo particularly favors premium steels like Aogami Super and SG2, with his Aogami Super models earning widespread praise for their exceptional edge-holding capabilities.

What distinguishes Kamo's work is his mastery of dual-blade hammering techniques, which produce ultra-thin blade profiles without sacrificing structural integrity. Enthusiasts consistently note that his knives feature tall blade heights and blade-forward balance while remaining surprisingly lightweight—an achievement that requires exceptional forging skill. The geometry of his knives reflects deep understanding of professional kitchen demands, combining cutting performance with ergonomic handling.

Within the chef knife community, Kamo Shiro's craftsmanship is regarded as top-tier, with collectors and professional users highlighting his "consistently even and thin grinds" as hallmarks of his work. District Cutlery and other specialty retailers feature his knives as premium offerings, reflecting the strong reputation he's built among discerning knife enthusiasts. For those seeking traditional Japanese craftsmanship executed at the highest level, Kamo Shiro's knives represent an investment in proven quality and generations of refined bladesmithing knowledge.