This knife blade is convex on both sides in the tradition of the highly praised Japanese sword. This shape is both sharp and strong, and can still slice cleanly through a sheet of paper even after the punishment of chopping and cutting through dried bamboo. Using this special blade shape is an excellent way of allowing an edge to be thick without sacrificing any of its sharpness. This knife is of preeminent sharpness. This is a durable knife with strong cutting capabilities that will last for a long time. Even when used for rigorous cutting, the blade will not bite or catch thanks to its convex shape. Other knives will often bite or catch, and may acquire nicks if pulled out suddenly.
Rockstead SHIN FAQ
What makes the ZDP-189 blade steel on the Rockstead Shin so unique?
The blade features an ultra-high-carbon ZDP-189 powder stainless steel core clad (sandwiched) between layers of resilient VG-10 stainless steel. Rockstead heat-treats the ZDP-189 core to an extraordinary hardness of roughly 67 HRC. Combined with their signature mirror-polished Honzukuri (convex) geometry, this composition offers edge retention and structural strength that far outlasts standard premium pocket knives.
What is the black inlay material on the handle scale?
The handle inlay is made from genuine Stingray skin (Samé) embedded into hard-anodized A6063S aluminum slabs. This material pays homage to traditional Japanese samurai sword wraps (tsuka-ito). Its natural, pearl-beaded texture provides an exceptionally secure, non-slip grip that will not degrade or smooth out over time.
How should I maintain and sharpen this mirror-finished convex edge?
You should never use standard flat whetstones, pull-through sharpeners, or standard guided rod systems on this knife, as they will scratch the mirror polish and ruin the precise convex profile.
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For daily touch-ups: Lightly strop the edge on a leather strop or thick denim wrapped around a hard wood block loaded with high-grade diamond paste (0.5 to 1 micron).
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For complete sharpening: Once registered, you can send the knife back to Rockstead’s workshop in Japan, where their master craftsmen will restore the factory mirror edge.
Is the pocket clip reversible for left-handed carry?
No, the titanium pocket clip on the Rockstead Shin is strictly fixed for right-handed, tip-up carry. Because the handle ergonomics, hidden hardware layout, and liner lock mechanism are precision-machined specifically for right-handed deployment, it cannot be modified for left-handed use.
Does this knife ship with its original Japanese packaging and certification?
Yes. Every authentic Rockstead Shin is shipped in its original, traditional Japanese cherry wood box. It includes the individual factory inspection sheet, care instructions, and a unique serial number stamped on the blade tang, which is required to register the knife online for Rockstead’s official warranty and factory sharpening program.
