buzzard767
Sous Chef
Out of curiosity, I checked the first on your list, Moritaka. That’s more of a “brand name” than a custom knife. It’s obvious that “Moritaka” himself isn’t making each and every knife. Look at how they say “we” do this and that. Sounds like a Wal-Mart sweat shop. At least with Jay Fisher you have one guy sticking to uncompromising standards of quality and not mass production dead lines.
And some of his blades aren’t full tang! But, I’m not saying they aren’t good…..I’m just more impressed with Jay Fisher’s work. Some like Rembrandt others like Rockwell.
You need to do more exploring. Moritaka is indeed custom - since 1293, 28th generation Moritaka family. As to the handles, the better knives are arc welded stainless steel tangs so they don't contaminate the wood. Just as I didn't see all of the previous site, you need to do more homework as well. There is a lot more to quality knives than either of us will ever know.....
Buzz