Shigeki Tanaka started his blacksmith journey when he apprenticed in the Takefu Knife Village (based in Echizen city, Fukui Prefecture, Japan) for three years, a region renowned for its cutlery making and forging techniques. He learned the intricacies of hand forging blades used for food production there, before moving back to Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, to continue his work at his Family's shop where they primarily made sickles and other agricultural tools. Now, the hamono focuses on Kitchen knives, and has gained a reputation worldwide for producing some of the best knives available, at a great price point.

Shigeki Tanaka-san’s blades are very handmade, and are a fantastic entry level Japanese knife. Each blade is hand-forged and sharpened, giving them a rustic finish. He works primarily with stainless steel, particularly Ginsan (Nashiji line), VG-10 (damascus line), and SG2/R2 (black damascus line), but also Aogami (Blue#2, kurouchi line). The profile is very traditional, with a nice gentle curve from tip to heel, making them great for rocking. Thinness varies between each batch, ranging from extremely thin laser-likeness, to workhorse territory. The petty shape is a shop favourite, with the profile being most like a mini chefs knife, truly unique for the size!