OUL’s Shirogami 2 series is an excellent option for the individual looking for a traditional, carbon steel knife to perform in the professional or home environment. The Shirogami 2 core steel takes a beautiful edge and is easy to maintain. Shirogami 2/White 2 is less likely to chip during use compared to harder steels like Aogami Super. Each Shirogami 2 series is laminated with a tsuchime, or hammer finish stainless steel to help protect the blade and assist with food release. The stainless laminate creates a lovely contrast to the carbon steel cutting edge as the knife is used over time. The handles are ambidextrous made of octagonal magnolia wood with a water buffalo horn ferrule.

The Shirogami 2 santoku is a classic example of a traditional style santoku. The blade is clean with a light forward balance. The height gives you room to work and the 165mm blade is more nimble and controlled compared to the 210mm or 240mm gyuto. The santoku is an excellent choice for the cook who likes push cuts and light mincing. The santoku was designed as an everything knife, the Shirogami 2 santoku does it with character and is built to last.

Fukui Hamono, located in Sakai, Japan comes from over 600 years of knife and sword making tradition. OUL, one of Fukui Hamono’s culinary brands stands out from the competition. The Kanji on OUL’s blades translates to “Master’s Style”. After handling, sharpening and using OUL’s knives, I can say the name is befitting of their products. Each knife is made of quality materials, has an excellent heat treatment and a fit and finish of higher quality compared to many other makers.

Blade steel: Shirogami 2/White 2 carbon steel

Lamination: stainless steel

Handle: octagonal magnolia wood with water buffalo horn ferrule

Cutting edge length:165mm

Spine thickness: 2mm

Blade height: 47mm

Handle length: 5”

Overall length: 12.25”

Carbon steel can rust if neglected. To avoid corrosion and rust, be sure to wash and dry your knife immediately after use. Leaving moisture or acidic material on the blade will cause corrosion. Every carbon steel knife will develop a blue grey patina, yellow or orange is rust.