This 180 mm bunka in SG2 (R2) from Hatsukokoro pairs the versatility of an all-purpose knife with the k-tip point that defines the bunka profile, enabling detail work and precision cuts that a santoku cannot match as readily. The generous blade height keeps knuckles clear of the board, while the flat belly profile handles vegetables, meat, and fish with equal ease.
SG2 (R2), produced through powder metallurgy, differs from conventionally forged steels in the fineness and uniformity of its carbide distribution. Its high carbon content (approximately 1.45%) combined with 14–15% chromium delivers edge retention well above that of common stainless steels such as VG-10. The trade-off is that sharpening requires more passes on the stone and quality abrasives to work through the vanadium carbides effectively. Kanji are engraved on the blade. The damascus construction wraps the SG2 core in a tightly layered cladding, its wave pattern visible across the full blade height.
The octagonal wa-handle in figured birch burl shows a swirling grain in deep brown and auburn tones, with a light-coloured collar marking the transition to the tang. The octagonal section provides a secure grip without constraining the hand.
Care
Rinse and dry after each use. Never put in the dishwasher. Regular sharpening on water stones keeps the edge performing.
