A pioneering plane bladesmith who integrated scientific metallurgical analysis with traditional forging. His blades are legendary for extreme sharpness and edge retention, beloved by the Kezuroukai (planing competition) community where competitors struggle to produce the thinnest possible shaving. Multiple Kezuroukai records have been set using Usui Kengo blades. His death in 2012 left a void that has never been filled.
Workshop Mark / Mei (銘)Mei stamp — Usui KengoWorkshop Profile
Founded1950s
FounderKengo Usui
Current Gen.Historical (Deceased 2012)
LocationYoita, Niigata Prefecture
StatusHistorical (deceased, no known successor)
Int'l Shipping✓ Available
Specialties
Planes (Kanna)
Notable Works
Usui Kengo Kezuroukai competition blades
Steel Preferences
This workshop's tools are traditionally forged from these steels.
