Gyuto • 240 mm • SG2 • 3 layers • Western Hanlde (pakka) • For both left- and right-handed use

Features of Touroku SG2 Western series

The SG2 Western series by Touroku features a two-layer sanmai blade with a core of SG2 powder steel. Thanks to its high hardness, the blade is ground extremely thin, which is clearly visible in the pronounced forging line.

The handle is made of dark pakkawood and, combined with the steel bolster, provides excellent balance. A knife designed for professionals as well as enthusiastic home cooks and collectors.

SG2 Steel / Super Gold 2 / SPG2

SG2 steel is the big brother of the well-known VG10 steel from Takefu Special Steel. It is significantly harder (62–64 HRC), while still offering the advantage of being fully stainless. Thanks to this high hardness, knives can be ground thinner and retain their sharpness for a longer period of time.

While VG10 is produced by melting raw materials such as iron ore, vanadium, and molybdenum together, SG2 is a powder steel. This means the ingredients are first processed into a fine powder and only then fused into steel. This process results in a much finer and more uniform structure, with molecules packed more closely together, which contributes to the steel’s high hardness.

SG2 is a premium steel, and that also comes with certain drawbacks. Due to its high hardness and very thin grind, the steel is relatively fragile (prone to chippin). Proper cutting technique and careful maintenance are therefore essential.

In summary, SG2 is an exceptional steel for those seeking a stainless steel knife with extreme sharpness that can also be maintained for a long time.

Elwin de Veld on Touroku

Japanese artisans are highly regarded worldwide. They are known for their dedication, passion, and inner drive to continually improve. Their craftsmanship has been passed down and refined for generations within small, mostly independent family businesses. These businesses are often spread throughout Japan, with specific regions renowned for their specific craftsmanship. Sometimes these small businesses are affiliated with a guild, sometimes not. The older, smaller businesses (those with the greatest perseverance) are particularly open to contacts outside Japan, but often don't know how to take this step.

Taka san, the third-generation owner of Touroku Sakai (登録佐海), which translates as "Recorded or Registered," aims to connect these businesses and make their craft known to the world. Touroku represents a distinguished group of craftspeople specializing in the craft of refined Japanese knives and holding on to the knowledge they have acquired over generations. Taka san runs a unique company where he brings together crafts from the regions of Tsubame Sanjo City, Niigata, Tosa City, Kochi, and the Honkuriku region: Toyama City.

Touroku knives are now beloved by many professional chefs worldwide and embraced by many enthusiastic home cooks.