Takeshi Saji Gyuto (Chefs Knife) SG2 Damascus, White stag handle 180mm

Saji Knives – Master Blacksmith from Takefu, Japan

Saji Takeshi is a renowned Japanese knife maker from Takefu, Japan, a region famous for its centuries-old blacksmithing traditions.  Born in 1948. As a certified Echizen Master Blacksmith, Saji combines traditional techniques with modern craftsmanship to create exceptional handcrafted knives prized by chefs and collectors worldwide.
(The same knife village as Hideo Kitaoka, Nao Yamamoto, Kato, Kurosaki and many more.)

Each Saji knife is forged with precision using high-quality steels like R2/SG2, VG10 Damascus, and Aogami (Blue Steel), ensuring razor-sharp edges, superior durability, and excellent edge retention. His knives stand out not only for their performance but also for their stunning aesthetics, featuring intricate Damascus patterns and custom handles crafted from materials such as stag horn, ironwood, and micarta.

Saji’s dedication to excellence has made his knives highly sought after for their sharpness, balance, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, a Saji knife delivers precision and elegance in every cut.

Discover the legacy of Saji Takeshi and experience the finest handcrafted Japanese knives from Takefu, where tradition meets innovation.

*Awarded Traditional Master Craftsman in '92 by the Japanese “Ministry of International Trade & Industry.

About the steel: 
Another steel made by Takefu Special Steel Co.,Ltd. (same makers as VG10)
SG2 is considered one of the best stainless steels for knife making.
It is known for its sharpness and edge retention.
It tends to be expensive, and I've been told is very hard to work with.
-SG2 is Unpopular, yet a beautiful steel
-Can be harder to sharpen
-High hardness possible up to 64RHC! 
-Expensive to produce

About the handle: A White stag western style handle. Pure Elegance.

Leigh's 2 cents: Not many makers match Saji for quality or fame. 
Even Saji's knife boxes are better than the rest..........Very impressive work indeed.


Steel: SG2, stainless Damascus clad 
Finish: Stainless Black Damascus clad
Blade length: 181mm
Blade thickness: 2.5mm (Above Heel) 1.5mm (Near Tip)
Overall length: 304mm
Blade Height: 42
Weight: 217g
RHC: 63
Bevel: Double
Handle: White stag western style handle