Overview

From the 350-year smithing lineage of Nigara Hamono comes a kiritsuke that looks as fierce as it cuts. This 240 mm blade features a razor-hard SG2 powder-steel core wrapped in stainless kurouchi tsuchime cladding, giving you carbon-level edge retention without the upkeep headaches. A long, flat profile excels at push cuts and precise vegetable work, while the aggressive k-tip handles delicate fish with ease. Completing the package is a full-tang Western handle set with iridescent abalone-resin scales and a nickel-silver bolster—equal parts jewelry and workhorse.

Common Questions

Q: Is the listed 240 mm the true cutting edge? A: Nigara measures from the neck (machi), so the sharpened edge is about 228 mm—plenty of runway for protein loins and tall produce.

Q: How does SG2 compare to VG-10 or Aogami Super? A: SG2 sits at 62–63 HRC, giving it better edge retention than VG-10 and near-carbon sharpness, yet it’s stainless. You get long intervals between sharpenings with far less worry about rust.

Q: Will the abalone handle survive heavy use? A: The shell is pressure-stabilized in resin, making it waterproof and dimensionally stable. Hand-wash, dry promptly, and its opal shimmer will last for decades.

Specifications

Core Steel: SG2 powder stainless

Cladding Type: Stainless steel, kurouchi tsuchime finish

Blade Length (listed): 240 mm

Actual Edge Length: ~228 mm

Spine Thickness (Heel): 2.2 mm

Spine Thickness (Mid): 1.9 mm

Spine Thickness (1 cm from Tip): 0.8 mm

Blade Height (Heel): 52 mm

Overall Length: 380 mm

Weight: ~300 g

Handle Material: Abalone-resin scales, nickel-silver bolster (Western full-tang)

Hardness (HRC): 62 – 63