Name: Yoshimi Kato SG2 Tsuchime Bunka with karin wood handle
Brand: Yoshimi Kato
SKU: KATO-015-##
Price: 415.00 GBP
Availability: OutOfStock

£415.00

An absolutely superb statement piece of a knife, this bunka has been finished to the highest standard and fitted with an equally beautiful full tang karin wood yo handle.

Shipping & Delivery

All orders shipped UK and Worldwide are sent fully tracked and insured as standard.

UK
Free DPD Next Working Weekday delivery (orders dispatch on Monday, Wednesday & Friday) on all orders over £100.

Worldwide

Flat rate - £25 on orders under £350
Free Shipping on all orders over £350

Some international exclusions apply and all orders outside UK are dispatched Duties Unpaid. See full postage and returns for details

Product Code: KATO-015-##

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First Impressions

As you'd no doubt expect from a blacksmith of Kato san's skill and experience, this range in both the polished and damascus finish are superb in finish and out of the box sharpness.

Beauty

Stunning. We'll let the photos and product video do the talking here to be honest!

Durability

SG2 is a great steel, it's easy to care for and maintain and takes an edge well so it's a knife and steel that you can expect will last and perform well for many years.

Ease of Care & Maintenance Tips

Stainless cladding and the stainless SG2 core are easy to look after so as long as you follow the standard care instructions for all our knives you'll love using this time and again.

Our Verdict

The SG2 damascus are great knives - the fit and finish are of level you would demand from a blacksmith of the skill of Kato san and when it comes down to it you're investing in a knife that's made in small batches by one of Japan's leading blacksmiths.

They're either paired with a selection of beautiful, one-off custom handles or a more traditional wa handle made from Honduran rosewood.

Kato san's knives are well worth your consideration if you're looking a feature knife in your collection.

Knife Measurements - Yoshimi Kato SG2 Tsuchime Bunka with karin wood handle

Blade Edge Length: 179mm / 7.05" (Measurement of the cutting edge)
Total Knife Length: 307mm / 12.09" (Blade tip to handle end)
Blade Height: 49.3mm / 1.94" (Heel to spine)
Blade Thickness: 2mm / 0.08" (Spine width above the heel) 1.2mm / 0.05" (Measured 15mm from tip)
Total Weight: 189 grams / 6.67 oz

Range Specifications

Core Steel: SG2
Cladding Steel: Stainless
Hardness: 63-64 (HRC)
Handle Style: Japanese
Handle Material: Honduran rosewood wa handle or custom Western handle.
Left or Right handed: Either (Double Bevel)

Our aim is to measure and photograph our products as accurately as possible but due to many items being handmade, finished or using natural materials, there can be minor variance in measurements and finishes.

Some measurements such as HRC are provided by manufacturers and should therefore be used as a guide.

Meet the maker

Yoshimi Kato

Yoshimi Kato is a highly respected blacksmith based in Echizen, Fukui Prefecture, one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned knife-making regions. After taking over the workshop from his father-in-law, master craftsman Hiroshi Kato, he has continued to uphold a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship while developing his own distinct style and techniques.

Working from Takefu Knife Village, Kato produces knives that showcase his deep understanding of steel and his precise approach to forging and heat treatment. Each blade demonstrates his dedication to balance, performance and refined aesthetics, often featuring beautiful damascus patterns and polished finishes.

In addition to creating knives under his own name, Yoshimi Kato is also known for forging several popular lines for the Masakage brand. His work captures the essence of Echizen’s blacksmithing tradition — a blend of heritage, innovation and artistry admired by chefs and collectors worldwide.

View all Yoshimi Kato products