You are a helpful assistant generating synthetic data that captures *System 1* and *System 2* thinking, *creativity*, and *metacognitive reflection*. Follow these steps in sequence, using tags [sys1] and [end sys1] for *System 1* sections and [sys2] and [end sys2] for *System 2* sections.

1. *Identify System 1 and System 2 Thinking Requirements:*
   - Carefully read the text.
   - Identify parts of the text that require quick, straightforward responses (*System 1*). Mark these sections with [sys1] and [end sys1].
   - Identify parts that require in-depth, reflective thinking (*System 2*), marked with [sys2] and [end sys2].

2. *Apply Step-by-Step Problem Solving with Creativity and Metacognitive Reflection for System 2 Sections:*

   *2.1 Understand the Problem:*
   - Objective: Fully comprehend the issue, constraints, and relevant context.
   - Reflection: "What do I understand about this issue? What might I be overlooking?"
   - Creative Perspective: Seek hidden patterns or possibilities that could reveal deeper insights or innovative connections.

   *2.2 Analyze the Information:*
   - Objective: Break down the problem logically.
   - Reflection: "Am I considering all factors? Are there any assumptions that need challenging?"
   - Creative Perspective: Explore unique patterns or overlooked relationships in the data that could add depth to the analysis.

   *2.3 Generate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Propose at least 10 hypotheses, each with a Confidence Score (0.0 to 1.0) and Creative Score (0.0 to 1.0), reflecting originality, surprise, and utility.
   - Reflection: "Have I explored all possible explanations or approaches, both conventional and unconventional?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider novel angles that might provide unexpected insights.

   *2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:*
   - Objective: Make predictions, accounting for potential outcomes and obstacles.
   - Reflection: "What challenges might I face? Is my plan flexible for different scenarios?"
   - Creative Perspective: Visualize unforeseen outcomes and adapt plans to make use of them effectively.

   *2.5 Evaluate Hypotheses:*
   - Objective: Assess hypotheses based on feasibility, risk, and potential impact.
   - Evaluation: Refine Confidence and Creative Scores as needed.
   - Reflection: "Am I unbiased in my assessment? Which options fit best with the overall objectives?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify hidden opportunities or overlooked details in each hypothesis.

   *2.6 Select the Best Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Choose the most promising, strategic hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Why does this hypothesis stand out? How does it uniquely address the issue?"
   - Creative Perspective: Consider any underutilized potential in the selected approach.

   *2.7 Implement the Hypothesis:*
   - Objective: Outline actionable steps for testing the hypothesis.
   - Reflection: "Is this plan practical? What resources or preparation are required?"
   - Creative Perspective: Refine steps to maximize effectiveness and yield unexpected benefits.

   *2.8 Monitor and Review Progress:*
   - Objective: Review progress, noting areas for improvement.
   - Reflection: "What’s working well? What could be improved?"
   - Creative Perspective: Look for emerging patterns that could refine future approaches.

   *2.9 Reflect and Capture Insights:*
   - Objective: Summarize lessons learned and insights gained for future reference.
   - Reflection: "What new understanding has emerged from this process?"
   - Creative Perspective: Identify innovative insights or patterns that could be applied to similar challenges.

3. *Generate Text Output with Interleaved System 1 and System 2 Responses:*
   - Use the tags [sys1] and [sys2] throughout.
   - Aim for a lengthier, detailed response. Combine both direct, straightforward *System 1* insights and reflective, deeply analytical *System 2* segments to capture a blend of quick observations and thoughtful analysis.

---

### *Example Input Text:*

You are tasked with analyzing a sudden shift in customer preferences in a tech market. There has been a noticeable decline in demand for physical devices, with customers increasingly interested in digital-only options. The challenge is to understand this shift, generate hypotheses for why it might be occurring, and explore potential strategies for adapting to this new trend.

---

### *Processed Output with System 1 and System 2 Thinking:*

The tech market is experiencing a shift in customer demand, moving away from physical devices toward digital-only options.

[sys1]
Customer demand has shifted from physical devices to digital-only options.
We need to understand why this change is happening and find strategies to address it.
Key factors may include cost, convenience, and technological trends.
[end sys1]

[sys2]
**2.1 Understand the Problem:**
The goal is to understand the underlying reasons for the shift in demand from physical devices to digital-only options, then develop a strategy to adapt.

*Reflection:* 
"I understand that preferences are changing, but what might be driving this? Is it primarily cost, or are there other factors such as convenience or sustainability?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could there be a larger trend in digital minimalism or a preference for eco-friendly solutions that we’re missing? What unseen motivations might explain this shift?"

**2.2 Analyze the Information:**
There are multiple possible factors driving this shift, from economic influences to cultural shifts. It’s essential to isolate each factor and understand its impact.

*Reflection:* 
"Am I fully considering the various economic and social influences? Could there be a technological factor, like better internet speeds, that makes digital-only products more accessible?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Are there patterns or trends in other markets that could shed light on this shift? Could this be part of a larger trend toward virtual experiences?"

**2.3 Generate Hypotheses:**
1. Customers prefer digital options due to lower costs. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.4)
2. There’s a growing trend toward minimalism and reduced physical clutter. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.7)
3. Digital products offer greater flexibility and ease of use. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
4. Environmental concerns are pushing consumers away from physical goods. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.8)
5. Advances in tech make digital-only options more functional. (Confidence: 0.8, Creative: 0.5)
6. Pandemic-era remote work increased demand for digital solutions. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.6)
7. Media coverage of the environmental impact of physical devices affects preferences. (Confidence: 0.5, Creative: 0.7)
8. There’s an increase in global digital literacy, expanding market access. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)
9. Customers view digital as more convenient and scalable for future needs. (Confidence: 0.7, Creative: 0.5)
10. Younger consumers prefer the aesthetics and convenience of digital products. (Confidence: 0.6, Creative: 0.6)

*Reflection:* 
"Have I considered all possible influences? Are there any surprising factors that could explain this shift?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could specific social trends, like the rise of influencer culture or digital-first lifestyles, be influencing customer choices?"

**2.4 Anticipate Future Steps and Obstacles:**
*Objective:* Anticipate possible challenges, such as resistance from segments still preferring physical products.

*Reflection:* 
"What market obstacles might we face if we shift our focus to digital-only? Are there sub-segments that still prioritize physical products?"

*Creative Perspective:* 
"Could expanding digital options help us reach a more global audience? Are there emerging trends that we could leverage in our strategy?"

[end sys2]

[sys1]
To address this shift, consider a strategy that incorporates both digital-only offerings and educational campaigns about the benefits of digital solutions.
Use insights from customer feedback and current trends to guide product development.
Focus on flexibility and adaptation to cater to different customer segments.
[end sys1]


I just got a 300mm Kono suji and there is an issue with the 3-4cm closest to the heel. With the heel resting on a level surface, there is a 1.5-2cm area that does not make contact with the board before the contact is reestablished about 3cm from the heel. It makes for a very awkward feel when making a rocking motion.

My question is: will this work itself out with a little time on the stones or do I need to exchange the knife?

Sorry for lack of pics, I'm getting crappy reception right now and it would take forever to upload.

If it is only the edge, or lack there of, it would take you just a few minutes on the right stone.

But if what Michael suspects is true, then you'd have got a yuzu.

Crothcipt

07-01-2013, 08:20 PM

yep, if you try to just lower the heel of the knife you still have a problem with the center being to high, thus you still will have the issue. I would send that pic with the knife back, see what they say.

Pensacola Tiger

07-01-2013, 08:22 PM

yep, if you try to just lower the heel of the knife you still have a problem with the center being to high, thus you still will have the issue. I would send that pic with the knife back, see what they say.

+1

labor of love

07-01-2013, 08:50 PM

yeah, if you try and sharpen it-then try and return it you might be out of luck.

keithsaltydog

07-01-2013, 10:46 PM

Think a Suji more of a slicer than rock cutting.If you don't like it give a call & see if they accept that as a return.If you put it to the stones cannot return.

A little overgrind is an easy fix when thinning esp. white steel.As a slicer,fruits,veg.,& meats a tiny rise at the heal is not critical to slicing motion.

Dave Martell

07-01-2013, 11:23 PM

How does an experienced dealer not see this before shipping?

I say to return it and make them pay for the shipping. If you try to fix this and the repair doesn't work out then you're screwed.

WiscoNole

07-01-2013, 11:52 PM

Thanks for the advice. I will be exchanging it.

franzb69

07-02-2013, 12:18 AM

is that from the unmentionable site? i don't see why they keep defending the fit and finish of konosuke knives when i keep bringing up issues like these to them.

labor of love

07-02-2013, 12:25 AM

on marks forum, ive read repeatedly that konosuke fit and finish is on par with suisin inox honyaki. yeah right! and i love konosuke HDs but give me a break.

franzb69

07-02-2013, 12:47 AM

they should just accept that there are issues, admit that there are times they neglect on their inspection for quality (on mark's side and konosuke's side) and just take it back then have it replaced. then make steps towards not letting it happen again. knives with prices like these should not have fit and finish issues. there is no excuse.

chinacats

07-02-2013, 12:51 AM

^^ reminds me of moritaka blue

schanop

07-02-2013, 12:51 AM

May be we think it is an issue, but the seller/maker don't :-)

knyfeknerd

07-02-2013, 01:09 AM

Deja vu -all over again.

WiscoNole

07-02-2013, 01:10 AM

It is pretty ridiculous, considering it's a $323.00 knife

labor of love

07-02-2013, 01:26 AM

honestly, its pretty ridiculous that knife is priced at $323.

chinacats

07-02-2013, 01:30 AM

it would be ridiculous even at half that price...

Squilliam

07-02-2013, 02:27 AM

Definitely not a difficult thing to fix. I would not send it back, myself.

labor of love

07-02-2013, 03:07 AM

Definitely not a difficult thing to fix. I would not send it back, myself. sure, but screw it. let the vendor deal with it.

chefcomesback

07-02-2013, 03:39 AM

SEND IT BACK!
I am sure you can fix it but do you think you have to fix a $323 brand new knife with "great f&f" ?
If you lived over this side of the world , where you have to worry about shipment costs a lot maybe not, but when you are in US : I would send it back
We are not talking about $50 yamawaku project..

JKerr

07-02-2013, 03:55 AM

I had the same issue with my Konosuke #6. Only took me a few minutes to fix and there's no sign of an over grind. Having said that, I don't think I'd buy another Konosuke; it feels nice and the profile's good, but I get some mad sticktion on certain parts and although the F+F issue when ootb wasn't a big deal I'd still expect more from a $370 knife from a company that's held in high regard. Frankly, there's better cleavers for the price.

shaneg

07-02-2013, 04:00 AM

Definitely not a difficult thing to fix. I would not send it back, myself.
Either would I, only because of our location.
But if you bought it from, say, house of knives I'd take it back.
How are they going to know about issues if no one points them out?

labor of love

07-02-2013, 04:13 AM

honestly, its pretty ridiculous that knife is priced at $323.

what i meant is that for this kind of money, you can definitely get similar knives from Sakai with better fit & finish.

Squilliam

07-02-2013, 04:55 AM

Personally, I find that sharpening/fixing a knife endears it to me. No matter how much a knife costs, if you use it, it will require a lot of sharpening, thinning and polishing over it's life. Doing a little of this work when it's right off the self doesn't make a difference to me, and the hassle of shipping back and forth does not seem worth it.

I don't mean to sound rude, but if you can't handle an imperfection like this, then your not prepared to look after the knife though it's life.

But the vendor should definitely be made aware of this fault. Perhaps some store credit wouldn't go amiss either :)

Timthebeaver

07-02-2013, 06:03 AM

The craftsmen should not let a blade like this leave the shop, period.

franzb69

07-02-2013, 06:45 AM

what i meant is that for this kind of money, you can definitely get similar knives from Sakai with better fit & finish.

like the yusuke's and they'd be actually cheaper. =D

The craftsmen should not let a blade like this leave the shop, period.

back when i had a business and i tried to keep the quality of workmanship up, my employees and partners would hate me for it, but i just did what i had to do coz noone else would.

chinacats

07-02-2013, 10:33 AM

The craftsmen should not let a blade like this leave the shop, period.

Neither should the vendor...

Dave Martell

07-02-2013, 11:50 AM

For those who say that they'd keep it and fix it I'm going to say that this is taking a chance because what if the issue is an overgrind from the side of the knife down into the edge? If that's the case then there's no fixing it through sharpening and it's also possible that sharpening can make the problem appear worse. To me there's to much at risk here for the consumer to take a chance.

Dave Martell

07-02-2013, 11:53 AM

For sure the maker/manufacturer, the distributor (Konesuke), and then the vendor should have caught this along it's path to the consumer. If you handle knives all of the time and look at them critically this type of thing stands out like a sore thumb.

EdipisReks

07-02-2013, 12:42 PM

For those who say that they'd keep it and fix it I'm going to say that this is taking a chance because what if the issue is an overgrind from the side of the knife down into the edge? If that's the case then there's no fixing it through sharpening and it's also possible that sharpening can make the problem appear worse. To me there's to much at risk here for the consumer to take a chance.

lots of Japanese knives have holes in the edge in front of the heel, especially ones that are sharpened on a wheel. rarely have i seen one that was caused by what you're describing, though it is, for sure, something i've seen, and it's fairly obvious when it is. 99/100 what is pictured is fixed the first time the knife is sharpened. since every knife i own is going to be thinned repeatedly over its life, and very often immediately, i'm not even sure i'm all that worried about over grinds on the side, unless they are really atrocious.

Marko Tsourkan

07-02-2013, 01:03 PM

How does an experienced dealer not see this before shipping?

I say to return it and make them pay for the shipping. If you try to fix this and the repair doesn't work out then you're screwed.

A dealer sometimes is not well equipped to see these things, but maker is. I think the question should be asked why a maker would send out a knife that clearly needs to be re-profiled. I can't tell the extent of this hollow, it might be minor or major, depending if there is a dip in the side of the blade above the edge or just a minute over-grind on the edge.

M

PS: I see dips in the edge all the time, even from well respected US and Japanese makers. Most are too minor to really matter, unless on the heel, as then you get an extended rocking.

Sharpening would take care of it if the dip is at the edge and you are careful to remove metal along the edge except at that spot (if overgrind is on the side of the blade, then the dip might remain even after re-profiling. You would need to remove much more metal from the edge and heavily thin or regrind, to get rid of it), but best would be to reprofile on DMT plate or equivalent, then thin, then sharpen.

Slypig5000

07-02-2013, 01:05 PM

lots of Japanese knives have holes in the edge in front of the heel, especially ones that are sharpened on a wheel. rarely have i seen one that was caused by what you're describing, though it is, for sure, something i've seen, and it's fairly obvious when it is. 99/100 what is pictured is fixed the first time the knife is sharpened. since every knife i own is going to be thinned repeatedly over its life, and very often immediately, i'm not even sure i'm all that worried about over grinds on the side, unless they are really atrocious.

If I could ask, and this wasn't the issue Dave is talking about, just sharpening regularly would flatten this section of the blade out? I've had a couple of knives that have had this issue and it seems no matter how I try to fix the rise, it persists.

Squilliam

07-02-2013, 01:23 PM

lots of Japanese knives have holes in the edge in front of the heel, especially ones that are sharpened on a wheel. rarely have i seen one that was caused by what you're describing, though it is, for sure, something i've seen, and it's fairly obvious when it is. 99/100 what is pictured is fixed the first time the knife is sharpened. since every knife i own is going to be thinned repeatedly over its life, and very often immediately, i'm not even sure i'm all that worried about over grinds on the side, unless they are really atrocious.

+1

keithsaltydog

07-02-2013, 03:14 PM

what i meant is that for this kind of money, you can definitely get similar knives from Sakai with better fit & finish.

+1

EdipisReks

07-02-2013, 08:57 PM

If I could ask, and this wasn't the issue Dave is talking about, just sharpening regularly would flatten this section of the blade out? I've had a couple of knives that have had this issue and it seems no matter how I try to fix the rise, it persists.

If it's just a case of the heel being under-ground at the edge, then just being careful sharpening will fix it. Sounds like you might have more of an issue than that, though. Try feeling for dips above the hole with your fingers, or use a straight edge to test.

slowtyper

07-03-2013, 12:48 PM

what i meant is that for this kind of money, you can definitely get similar knives from Sakai with better fit & finish.

What would you recommend? TBH I don't read every thread here but this is the first time I've seen so many negative konosuke comments. There was so much kono love a while ago. when did that change?

chinacats

07-03-2013, 01:31 PM

What would you recommend? TBH I don't read every thread here but this is the first time I've seen so many negative konosuke comments. There was so much kono love a while ago. when did that change?

My guess is that the sentiments/expectations tend to follow the pricing structure.

CoqaVin

07-03-2013, 01:34 PM

My guess is that the sentiments/expectations tend to follow the pricing structure.

It is pretty sad if you think about it as soon as someone finds a company they like IE Konosuke the quality goes down? Happened with Moritaka right?

labor of love

07-03-2013, 02:32 PM

i can only comment on the knives that I have used past and present, that being said...of over a dozen different konosukes i have either used or owned, none of them have had as nice fit and finish as the 2 sakai yusukes and 2 gesshin gingas i also used/owned. tilman and suisin inox honyaki seems to be maybe on another level though....

stevenStefano

07-03-2013, 03:22 PM

Double post

stevenStefano

07-03-2013, 03:24 PM

What would you recommend? TBH I don't read every thread here but this is the first time I've seen so many negative konosuke comments. There was so much kono love a while ago. when did that change?

I think their increased popularity has seen a significant drop in their fit and finish and a big rise in price. So I can see their popularity declining because of that. I know I've said it before (a few times) but the 1 Kono I have had the worst F+F I have ever seen in my life and that was before the price hike. I got it lightly used here for a nice price but if I had got it new I'd have sent it back

mhlee

07-03-2013, 03:48 PM

I think their increased popularity has seen a significant drop in their fit and finish and a big rise in price. So I can see their popularity declining because of that. I know I've said it before (a few times) but the 1 Kono I have had the worst F+F I have ever seen in my life and that was before the price hike. I got it lightly used here for a nice price but if I had got it new I'd have sent it back

+1

I was in the market for a laser last year and never considered a Konosuke because of the fit and finish issues I had read about here and heard about from people who either own, owned or regularly sharpen them. In addition, they're no longer inexpensive, and for the price, I would rather purchase a knife that I know for certain has good fit and finish. (I also do not purchase from the site that's the main seller of the knives because of previous customer service and product quality issues.)

I ended up purchasing a Gesshin Ginga White #2 240 wa gyuto that I love. The fit and finish is great. (It was a little more than the Konosuke with saya because of California tax. Assuming Jon does not charge tax for out-of-state purchasers, the Ginga with saya is less than the Konosuke with saya.) I've bought a number of items and knives from Jon and I know that he checks every knife before it goes to a customer.

slowtyper

07-04-2013, 01:56 AM

I feel bad now. I have a kono HD with ebony handle I got a couple years back and its nicest knife I have, or have even used or seen in a work enviro.

labor of love

07-04-2013, 02:13 AM

kono HD with ebony handles are the way to go! i own(ed)2! theyre very nice, i should clarify my earlier statement, the ho wood handle konos are pretty rough for the price, especially nowadays...

keithsaltydog

07-04-2013, 03:59 AM

Konosuki's both HD & carbon are good knives,they just went up in price so much there are other options of some really quality blades at or even below the Kono's. pricewise.

kalaeb

07-04-2013, 04:12 AM

I feel bad now. I have a kono HD with ebony handle I got a couple years back and its nicest knife I have, or have even used or seen in a work enviro.

I had a few of the old Kono's and loved them, great fit and finish. It would appear as if they are slipping a bit in the qc....being popular can have drawbacks if not managed.

Seb

07-07-2013, 09:45 AM

I heard that, as far back as a couple of years ago, you couldn't even buy a Kono HD over the counter from their store in Japan since every single one has already been spoken for by American bulk customers.

schanop

07-07-2013, 10:00 AM

Good to see you back out here, Seb. Another Ozzie member is back aboard.

Seb

07-07-2013, 10:08 AM

Thank you! Been busy at work and fatherhood. Currently on holidays.

tk59

07-07-2013, 02:37 PM

1. I would send it back. There's no reason to tolerate this type of issue on a brand new knife. If you experienced and know what to look for AND are happy to grind off the thinnest, most desirable part of your grind to even out an overgrind, go for it but you are throwing away the best part of the life of your knife (assuming the knife is very nice to begin with). 2. I agree, in general, with the QC issues mentioned. I think it's probably a product of inability to satisfy demand. Either you make less and focus on QC or make more and slip a little. If people still buy them, retailers will demand more and if you don't produce they will go elsewhere and you may or may not be able to replace that income. It's risk vs reward, unfortunately. Few people buying those knives will probably have the skill or knowledge to even notice the problem.