Less Expensive Nigara Hamono SG2 Damascus Bunka with maplewood handle

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 inlayEnglish 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

SG2 can sometimes be a little difficult to sharpen compared to other steels but 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.