This gyuto 210 mm built around SG2 (R2) powder steel combines the edge retention characteristic of powder metallurgy with a Damascus pattern that covers the full length of the blade. The curved profile of the gyuto suits both push-cut and rocking techniques, and the blade height provides comfortable knuckle clearance on the board. Kanji are engraved on the blade.
SG2 (R2), produced by Takefu Special Steel through a powder metallurgy process, carries approximately 1.45% carbon and reaches 62–65 HRC. The uniform distribution of vanadium in the steel carbides achieved through this process gives the steel edge retention that outpaces conventionally forged steels in the same category. The trade-off: sharpening requires more passes on the stone and quality abrasives to work through the vanadium carbides effectively. Despite a high chromium content, the elevated carbon level makes the steel slightly more moisture-sensitive than VG10 — rinsing and drying after each use is recommended.
The wa-handle in figured birch features an octagonal cross-section with deep brown tones and pronounced grain, separated from the blade by a light-colored collar. The partial tang keeps the balance forward toward the blade, as expected on a wa-handle.
Care
Rinse and dry after each use. Never put in the dishwasher. Sharpening on water stones is recommended; quality abrasives will work the powder steel more effectively.