Two different approaches to the same construction make the two Nigara Damascus santoku pages worth comparing. The 170mm santoku in the wenge handle version and this 180mm version in burnt urushi oak sit close in size but represent distinct visual directions - dark polished wood and buffalo horn against warm lacquered oak. Both carry the same Anmon Damascus cladding, the same SG2 core at 62+ HRC, and the same 25-layer raindrop pattern that Nigara Hamono has been refining since this Hirosaki forging tradition was part of an Edo period castle town with over one hundred blacksmith shops. The pattern is named for the Anmon Waterfalls at the foot of the World Heritage Shirakami Mountains nearby, and it is hand-finished differently on every knife.
The santoku (three virtues) at 187mm blade length and 49mm height is the most versatile format in the lineup - long enough for the full range of everyday prep work, wide enough for real knuckle clearance and bench-scraping, with the gentle belly that accommodates both push cut and rocking technique. At 166g and 2mm spine, this is a well-balanced, moderately weighted knife for its size. SG2 is fully stainless - no reactive surface care, no patina to manage - which makes daily use straightforward. The burnt urushi oak handle is finished with traditional lacquer for durability and water resistance. Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
Care Instructions: SG2 is stainless and resistant to rust, but hard and chip-prone at this HRC. Use wood or rubber cutting boards only. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials. Hand wash and dry after use - no dishwasher. Strop regularly and use quality water stones for full sharpenings.
The santoku (three virtues) at 187mm blade length and 49mm height is the most versatile format in the lineup - long enough for the full range of everyday prep work, wide enough for real knuckle clearance and bench-scraping, with the gentle belly that accommodates both push cut and rocking technique. At 166g and 2mm spine, this is a well-balanced, moderately weighted knife for its size. SG2 is fully stainless - no reactive surface care, no patina to manage - which makes daily use straightforward. The burnt urushi oak handle is finished with traditional lacquer for durability and water resistance. Each knife is made by hand so measurements may vary.
Care Instructions: SG2 is stainless and resistant to rust, but hard and chip-prone at this HRC. Use wood or rubber cutting boards only. Avoid bones, frozen foods, and hard materials. Hand wash and dry after use - no dishwasher. Strop regularly and use quality water stones for full sharpenings.
- Maker: Nigara Hamono
- Location: Hirosaki, Aomori, Japan
- Construction: Hammer Forged, San Mai
- Edge Steel: SG2 Stainless Steel
- Cladding: 25-Layer Stainless Damascus (Anmon - Raindrop)
- HRC: 62+
- Edge Grind: Double Bevel, Even
- Handle: Burnt Urushi Oak Octagonal
- Weight: 5.8 oz (166g)
- Blade Length: 187mm
- Total Length: 330mm
- Spine Thickness at Heel: 2mm
- Blade Height: 49mm
