Kasumi

Overview

Sumikama is a Japanese cutlery manufacturer specializing in high-quality kitchen knives under the Kasumi brand. The company is known for combining over 780 years of Seki swordsmithing tradition with advanced modern manufacturing techniques and materials, particularly VG-10 stainless steel with Damascus folding. Kasumi knives are recognized internationally for their sharpness, durability, and distinctive aesthetic design, with products sold in approximately 50 countries.

History

Sumikama was founded in 1916 and is based in Seki, Gifu Prefecture, a region with over 780 years of swordsmithing heritage. The company pioneered the use of folded Damascus steel wrapped around a VG-10 core among large Japanese knife manufacturers, a technique later adopted by competitors. Since its founding, Sumikama has focused on combining traditional craftsmanship with new materials and manufacturing technologies. The company expanded beyond kitchen knives to produce various other bladed tools and household products while maintaining its core knife business. Today, Sumikama operates globally while remaining headquartered in its original region.

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Sumikama manufactures all Kasumi knives in-house at its factory in Seki, Japan, utilizing both traditional swordsmithing techniques and advanced modern manufacturing methods. The company specializes in VG-10 stainless steel composition and Damascus folding techniques, with knives typically finished to a 15-degree beveled edge. Production emphasizes high standards and quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

Notable Products

• Kasumi Damascus Chef's Knife - Folded Damascus steel with VG-10 core, typically 20cm blade length, hardness exceeding 60 on Rockwell scale
• Kasumi Sword-Shaped Knife - Distinctive sword-shaped design with titanium coating and dual-edge construction
• Kasane Kitchen Knife Series - Alternative high-quality line combining traditional and modern knife-making techniques

Reputation

Kasumi knives are highly regarded among professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts for their exceptional sharpness and edge retention, with hardness ratings above 60 on the Rockwell scale. The brand has earned strong international recognition, with products distributed across 50 countries and praised for combining aesthetic design with functional performance. The company is respected for its commitment to innovation while maintaining traditional craftsmanship heritage. Some users note that the knives require proper maintenance and care due to their high hardness and specialized steel composition.