Yoshimi Kato Minamo SG2 Bunka 170mm — Carbon & Gold Handle
Tax excluded. Free US shipping on orders over $99.
180-day returns on eligible unused items. Free prepaid label. Return details.
Free US standard shipping over $99. Normally fulfilled within 2 business days. Delivery details.
Every order insured. We handle shipping claims.
Overview
The Yoshimi Kato Minamo SG2 Bunka 170mm is a compact Japanese kitchen knife for vegetables, herbs, fish and boneless meat. Its relatively flat edge suits push cutting, while the pointed K-tip gives you control for trimming and fine cuts around shallots and garlic. It is a practical size for cooks who want an everyday knife with less blade length than a full-size gyuto.
Made in Echizen, Japan, this Minamo combines an SG2 powdered stainless steel core with stainless cladding and a textured, water-inspired finish. The thin cutting geometry helps it move cleanly through ingredients, and the hard core supports lasting edge retention. A fitted octagonal carbon-fiber composite handle with gold flecks completes this version; the handle is included.
Common Questions
Q: Is this bunka suitable for a home cook?
A: Yes. Its compact blade works well for everyday meal preparation, especially if you prefer controlled push cuts and detailed tip work. The 50/50 double-bevel edge suits both right- and left-handed cooks. Use light pressure and keep the blade aligned with the cut.
Q: How does a bunka differ from a santoku?
A: Both are versatile kitchen knives for produce and boneless proteins. The bunka's angular K-tip gives it a narrow point for precise work. Lift that tip clear of the board before changing direction, and avoid twisting it while it is embedded in food.
Q: How do I care for the SG2 blade?
A: Hand-wash and dry promptly, then store the knife with its edge protected. Do not soak it or use a dishwasher. Stainless steel resists corrosion but still needs clean, dry storage. Avoid bones, frozen foods and hard pits, and use wood or a knife-friendly Hasegawa cutting board.
Q: How should I maintain the edge?
A: Light, edge-trailing passes on our Tokushu Knife leather strop can keep the edge keen between sharpenings. When it needs a fresh edge, use a whetstone or our professional knife sharpening service. Choose a blade guard that accommodates the blade's length and height. If considering a future custom wa handle, confirm fit and installation before purchasing.
Specifications
- Maker: Yoshimi Kato
- Origin: Echizen, Fukui, Japan
- Knife Type: Bunka, 170mm class
- Core Steel: SG2 (R2) powdered stainless steel
- Cladding Type: Stainless steel
- Construction: San-mai
- Finish: Minamo textured finish
- Blade Length: Approximately 171mm
- Overall Length: Approximately 310mm
- Spine Thickness (Heel): Approximately 2.1mm
- Blade Height: Approximately 45.4mm
- Weight: Approximately 122g
- Handle Material: Carbon-fiber composite with gold flecks, octagonal wa handle
- Hardness (HRC): Approximately 62–63
- Edge Geometry: Double bevel, 50/50
Dimensions and weight can vary slightly between individual knives.
Shipping, returns and order protection
US shipping: Free on orders over $99. Orders are normally fulfilled within 2 business days, and UPS Ground transit is typically 1–5 business days after fulfillment. Custom handle installation or sharpening may add 1–2 business days.
Returns: Eligible purchases may be returned within 180 days with a free prepaid return label. Knives sharpened by Tokushu Knife or fitted with a custom handle remain eligible if they are otherwise new, unused, undamaged, and returned in their original packaging with all included components. The same refund terms apply.
Order protection: Every order is insured. If a package is lost or damaged, contact us at Tony@TokushuKnife.com and we will handle the claim.
Outside the US: Supported international orders from TokushuKnife.com typically ship via FedEx Delivered Duty Paid (DDP). Tokushu Knife pays all applicable import duties and taxes on the customer's behalf. Customers are not responsible for paying duties or taxes. Available destinations, shipping charges and delivery estimates are shown at checkout. Customers may also shop at TokushuKnife.eu for regional inventory and options.
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Steel, Construction and Care
Our catalog includes stainless, semi-stainless and carbon steels selected for edge performance and durability. Carbon steels may develop a patina, while stainless steels are designed to resist discoloration. Follow the care guidance on each product page, hand wash only and dry the knife promptly after use.
