Yoshimi Kato is a second generation smith who learned his trade from his illustrious father, Hiroshi Kato. After working for him for many years, Yoshimi took the reins of the business when Hiroshi-san retired. He works at the famous Takefu Knife Village cooperative where he makes a number of different knives under various names including Kanehiro and Masakage.
Petty knives are small utility knives of Japanese design. They can vary significantly in both profile and size, going from 75mm to 210mm. Petty knives are very similar to the common western paring or utility knife and are adept at many small and detailed cutting tasks. They also excel at preparing garnishes and other artistic endeavors.
This is one pretty petty! The knife is made from SG2 powdered stainless with a multi-layer damascus cladding made from a softer stainless alloy. This results in a knife that is both easy to use and to sharpen. It holds a great edge and is very durable. We think the damascus on these knives is some of the nicest we have seen and, coupled to the attractive and comfortable rosewood octagonal handle, makes for a beautiful and functional knife package.
Brand: Yoshimi SG-2
Blacksmith: Yoshimi Kato
Location: Echizen, Japan
Construction: San Mai
Method: Hammer Forged
Core Edge Steel: SG-2 Powdered Stainless
Cladding: Damascus Stainless
HRC: 61-62
Engraving: Hand Engraved
Edge Grind: Even (See Choil Shot)
Handle: Rosewood Octagonal
Ferrule: Pakka Wood
Weight: 2.4 oz (68 g)
Blade Length: 120 mm
Total Length: 247 mm
Spine Thickness at Base: 1.6mm
Blade Height: 29.1 mm