Bladesmith
はものかじしょく
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Occupation of heating, hammering, and polishing metal to manufacture blades such as kitchen knives and scissors.
Description
The bladesmith occupation involves heating steel at high temperatures, hammering it to shape, applying heat treatments such as quenching and tempering, and then finishing the cutting edge through polishing and grinding. Combining traditional handcraft techniques with the latest material knowledge, they produce kitchen knives, scissors, knives, etc., with excellent sharpness, durability, and design aesthetics. Primarily focused on custom orders from individual customers, restaurants, and workshops, they may also handle decoration and handle attachment in a comprehensive manner.
Future Outlook
Although demand for mass-produced items will decrease, the value of artisan blades will be maintained in markets seeking high quality and functionality, with expected demand from tourist souvenirs and overseas markets.
Personality Traits
Curious and inquisitive / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Apprenticeship system / Contract manufacturing / Custom production / Sole proprietor / Workshop employment
Career Path
Apprentice blacksmith → Artisan (forging worker) → Meister → Workshop management → Gallery artist
Required Skills
Forging / Grinding and polishing technology / Heat treatment technology / Metal materials knowledge
Recommended Skills
Design skills / Metal design / Safety management / Traditional craft techniques
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To detect minute distortions and defects and enhance finishing quality. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Creativity is required to devise blade shapes and designs. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Need to continuously learn differences in materials and heat treatment conditions. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Requires physical stamina for prolonged hammering work, etc. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Primarily requires advanced technical skills with minimal interpersonal interaction. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Quantitative analysis is outside the specialty. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Mainly individual work with little teamwork. |
Aliases
- Kitchen knife smith
- Swordsmith
Related Jobs
- Blade sharpener
- Forging worker
- Metal processor