Yoshimi Kato Minamo SG2 Ko Bunka
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Eligible US purchases include 180-day returns and a free prepaid return label.
Free US shipping over $99. Orders are normally fulfilled within 2 business days; UPS Ground transit is typically 1–5 business days. Custom work may add 1–2 business days.
Every order is fully insured. If a package is lost or damaged, contact us and we will handle the claim.
Overview
The Yoshimi Kato Minamo SG2 Ko Bunka is the kind of knife that makes a small blade feel like a serious upgrade. Built in Echizen by Yoshimi Kato, this compact ko-bunka pairs a nimble 135mm edge with the edge retention and fine grain structure that SG2 is known for. The result is a laser-like prep knife that feels quick, precise, and easy to control for detail work, line prep, herbs, shallots, garlic, fruit, and small proteins.
What makes a ko-bunka different from a petty? You get more blade height, more board clearance, and a more versatile k-tip profile for fine tip work. That means this knife can handle in-hand tasks comfortably while still feeling stable on the board. For cooks who want one compact Japanese knife that feels more capable than a utility knife and more agile than a full bunka, this is an especially appealing format.
The SG2 core gives this knife excellent wear resistance and long-lasting sharpness, while the stainless damascus cladding adds visual depth and easier maintenance than a reactive carbon blade. It is a smart choice for anyone who wants high-end Japanese performance in a compact footprint without taking on the extra care demands of fully reactive steel.
Common Questions
Q: What is a ko-bunka best used for?
A: A ko-bunka is ideal for small, precise kitchen work. It shines on garlic, shallots, herbs, strawberries, citrus, trimming proteins, sandwich prep, and quick everyday tasks where a full-size chef knife feels like too much blade. The taller profile also gives it more versatility than many petty knives.
Q: Is this a good Japanese knife for home cooks?
A: Yes. This is a strong fit for home cooks who want a premium compact knife that stays sharp for a long time and is easier to care for than carbon steel. It is especially good for cooks who value control, precision, and a lightweight feel.
Q: How do I care for an SG2 ko-bunka?
A: Hand wash only, dry it right away, and store it safely so the edge is protected. Use a knife-friendly cutting board such as a Hasegawa Pro Cutting Board, and avoid bones, frozen foods, hard squash, pits, and twisting cuts. To keep the edge performing at its best between sharpenings, regular stropping on a Tokushu leather strop helps a lot. When it is time for a full refresh, our knife sharpening service is an excellent option.
Specifications
- Core Steel: SG2 / R2 powder stainless steel
- Cladding Type: Stainless nickel damascus
- Blade Length: 135 mm
- Overall Length: Specs not found
- Spine Thickness (Heel): 1.7 mm
- Spine Thickness (Mid): Specs not found
- Weight: 70 g
- Handle Material: Octagonal rosewood with red pakkawood ferrule
- Hardness (HRC): 62
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.
