Our in-depth range review

First Impressions


Exceptional - The sharpness right out of the box is comparable with some of the best knives we've tested and the balance and handling of the blade makes using it a joy. 

Beauty

The whole package with the SG2 is beautiful, from the classy grey presentation box with it's silver foil embossed company name and logo through to the care and instructions and company history inlay English and Japanese onto the knife itself. 

The damascus range and finish on these knives is outrageous. The circular patterns along the full length of each blade are completely unique and unlike any other damascus finish out there. This is a truly stunning knife in both the detail and style of the finish.

Durability

The SG2 clad in stainless steel is a strong choice that balances edge retention and durability and will provide a great level of performance over many years use when honed and maintained correctly. 

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

SG2 is quite easy to sharpen and boasts a good level of edge retention and durability as long as you're following our normal care and use instructions and storing your knife on a rack or with a saya then it should last you for many years of happy cooking. 

Our Verdict

Nigara Hamono knives are excellent and this one in particular is something truly special and packs a visual punch that makes it an absolute pleasure to look at. For many people, the look of the knife is absolutely a consideration alongside the performance and it's fair to say that if you're looking for something that's a knock out on both front then it's this knife!

At this price point you're making a considered purchase but when you add together the excellent performance and craftmanship that comes from the hundreds of years of blade making experience Nigara Hamono are able to put into their knives it's still a knife that we'd be happy to say is a great purchase and something that's going to serve you for as many years as you need it.

Meet the maker

Nigara Hamono

Nigara Hamono is a historic knife maker based in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, with roots that date back more than 350 years to the early Edo period. Originally established as a swordsmithing family serving the Tsugaru clan, Nigara has evolved through eight generations into one of Japan’s most respected modern forges.

Today, the workshop is led by Go Yoshizawa and a small team of highly skilled artisans who continue to uphold the traditions of their ancestors while embracing modern metallurgy and design. Nigara Hamono is best known for its visually striking damascus patterns and meticulous heat treatment, producing knives that combine exceptional performance with artistic beauty.

Often forged from high-performance steels such as VG10, SG2, and Blue Super, each knife is finished by hand to exacting standards. With deep historical roots and a commitment to constant innovation, Nigara Hamono exemplifies the perfect balance of heritage, precision, and artistry in Japanese blade making.

View all Nigara Hamono products