From the maker

Overview

The Kei Kobayashi SG2 Migaki Gyuto 210mm is an ultra-thin Japanese chef knife made and precision-finished in Seki, Japan. Kobayashi-san is known for exceptionally refined sharpening, polished fit and finish, and true laser geometry that moves through vegetables and boneless proteins with very little resistance.

Its SG2/R2 powdered stainless-steel core provides excellent edge retention while stainless cladding keeps daily maintenance simple. The clean migaki finish emphasizes the blade's minimalist profile and fine grind.

Choose between two handle configurations: the distinctive red lacquer handle or a burnt wood wa handle with a black buffalo horn ferrule. Select your preferred handle style from the variant menu; the assigned variant image shows the matching configuration.

Cutting Performance

This 210mm gyuto is a nimble all-purpose knife for slicing, dicing, mincing, and precision prep. Its thin spine, fine tip, and low-resistance grind reward a light cutting technique. It is especially effective for onions, herbs, vegetables, fish, and boneless meat, but the hard, thin edge should not be used on bones, frozen food, hard pits, or with twisting cuts.

Common Questions

Q: Is the Kei Kobayashi SG2 Gyuto suitable for home cooks?

A: Yes. It is an outstanding choice for a careful home cook or professional who wants laser-like cutting performance. Use a relaxed grip, let the edge do the work, and cut on a knife-friendly surface such as a Hasegawa Pro cutting board.

Q: Is SG2 stainless steel?

A: Yes. SG2, also called R2, is a powdered stainless steel valued for long edge retention and fine sharpening response. It is easier to maintain than reactive carbon steel, but the knife should still be hand washed and dried promptly.

Q: What is a laser gyuto?

A: A laser gyuto has exceptionally thin blade geometry designed to reduce wedging and cutting resistance. The tradeoff is that the edge needs controlled technique and should never be forced through hard ingredients.

Q: How should I maintain the edge?

A: Use light, periodic touch-ups on the Tokushu Knife Premium XL Buffalo Leather Strop and sharpen on quality whetstones when needed. Tokushu Knife's professional knife sharpening service is also available.