Overview

The Nigara SG2 Kurouchi Tsuchime Kiritsuke Gyuto 210mm with Ironwood Yo Handle is a Japanese chef knife for cooks who want a pointed k-tip, stainless steel performance, and the familiar feel of a Western handle. Made in Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan, it pairs SG2 powdered stainless steel with a dark kurouchi finish and distinctive hammered tsuchime texture.

Use the 210mm blade for everyday vegetable prep, slicing boneless meat, and portioning fish. The kiritsuke tip offers a precise working point for detailed cuts, while the ironwood handle brings rich natural grain and a substantial grip. Its metal bolster completes the transition from handle to blade. This is a versatile kitchen knife for careful home cooks and professionals who appreciate a Western-handled Japanese blade.

Performance and Care

SG2 offers strong edge retention and good corrosion resistance. Keep cuts controlled and let the edge do the work. Protect the tip from twisting, and avoid bones, frozen food, hard shells, and prying. Use wood or a knife-friendly synthetic surface such as a Hasegawa Pro cutting board.

Hand wash and dry promptly, including the handle and bolster. Do not soak the knife or put it in the dishwasher. Light maintenance on a Tokushu Knife leather strop can refresh the edge between whetstone sharpenings. For professional edge maintenance, use our knife sharpening service.

Common Questions

Is this Nigara kiritsuke suitable for home cooks?

Yes. It suits a home cook who wants an all-purpose Japanese chef knife with a Western handle and is comfortable caring for a hard, fine edge. The 210mm size offers useful cutting length for daily prep.

Is SG2 steel stainless?

Yes. This knife has an SG2 powdered stainless steel core and stainless cladding. It still needs prompt washing and drying; stainless steel can stain if left wet or exposed to food residue.

Is this a traditional single-bevel kiritsuke?

No. This is a double-bevel kiritsuke gyuto with a 50/50 edge, suitable for right- or left-handed use. It serves as a general-purpose chef knife with a distinctive pointed tip.

Will every ironwood handle look the same?

No. Ironwood is a natural material, so grain and color vary between knives. The photos show the handle style and blade finish.

Specifications

Maker: Nigara Hamono

Origin: Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan

Knife Type: Kiritsuke gyuto / Japanese chef knife

Core Steel: SG2 / R2 powdered stainless steel

Cladding: Stainless steel

Finish: Kurouchi with hammered tsuchime texture

Blade Length: Nominal 210mm

Blade Height: 50mm

Blade Thickness: 2.3mm

Weight: 230g

Hardness: 62–63 HRC

Handle: Ironwood yo / Western handle with metal bolster

Edge: Double bevel, 50/50

Dimensions and weight are approximate and may vary slightly between knives.