Makoto Sakura SG2 Sujihiki 270mm

We have developed a high respect for blacksmith Makoto Kurosaki, the brother of Yu Kurosaki. Makoto Kurosaki worked as a smith with Kanehiro Uchi Hamono in 2002 and, along with his brother, trained under famed blacksmith Hiroshi Kato. Makoto still works for Kato-san part-time, but he now also shares time with his brother in a new shop he has established in Echizen. He has recently struck out on his own and given his name to a rapidly growing line of fine kitchen cutlery.

This great looking sujihiki is made from SG2, a modern steel that boasts some impressive specifications and properties. SG2 is a powdered metallurgical alloy made by The Kobelco Steel Company and is primarily used for the manufacturing of tools. Fortunately for knife lovers it is also a great choice for kitchen knives because of its easy to maintain attributes. It is also special in that it can be hardened to a reasonably high rating, in this case 62+ HRC. The core of this knife is covered in a layer of a softer stainless steel for protection and added strength.

We think this knife is fine art, and craft. Its long slender blade is bestowed with a simple and elegant hairline finish. The grind is laser thin, and some of the best we have seen. Makoto-san is a very talented sharpener and it shows in this razor blade of a knife. The cherry and maple octagonal handle perfectly matches the look of the blade, aesthetically and ergonomically. Elegant in looks and in use. We really like this fine slicer.

Brand: Makoto

Blacksmith: Makoto Kurosaki

Location: Takefu, Japan

Construction: San Mai

Method: Hammer Forged

Quenching: Water Quenched

HRC: 62+-

Finish: Kasumi

Edge Steel: SG2 Powdered Stainless Steel

Cladding: Stainless Steel

Handle: Cherry Octagonal (Sakura means Cherry Tree)

Ferrule: Maple

Weight: 4.8 ounces

Blade Length: 272 mm

Total Length: 425 mm

Spine Thickness at Base: 1.9 mm

Blade Height: 40 mm

Edge Grind: Even (See Choil Photo)