Hatsukokoro Mercury Kiri-Gyuto 210mm – SG2 Kurozome Damascus, Olivewood Handle
Hatsukokoro Mercury Kiri-Gyuto 210mm – SG2 Kurozome Damascus
Chosen by Sharp Knives Malta
Ultra-light. Laser-thin. Built for exceptional precision.
The Hatsukokoro Mercury Kiri-Gyuto 210mm is a high-performance Japanese chef's knife crafted for cooks who demand extraordinary cutting performance. Forged with a premium SG2 (R2) powder steel core and finished with a striking Kurozome Damascus blade, it combines elite edge retention, effortless cutting, and refined Japanese craftsmanship in one exceptional package.
Its laser-thin geometry glides through ingredients with minimal resistance, while the distinctive kiritsuke-inspired profile offers outstanding precision and versatility. This is a knife built for serious cooks who appreciate the difference that exceptional steel and expert craftsmanship can make.
Who This Knife Is For
Perfect for:
- Experienced home cooks
- Professional chefs
- Japanese knife enthusiasts
- Collectors looking for premium craftsmanship
- Anyone seeking outstanding cutting performance with modern stainless steel
Why You'll Love It
SG2 (R2) Powder Steel Core
At the heart of the blade lies premium SG2 (R2) powder metallurgy steel, hardened to approximately 62–64 HRC.
Benefits include:
- Exceptional sharpness
- Outstanding edge retention
- Excellent wear resistance
- High corrosion resistance
- Easy maintenance compared to carbon steel
SG2 is widely regarded as one of Japan's finest stainless knife steels, delivering remarkable cutting performance while remaining practical for everyday use.
Kurozome Damascus Finish
The blade features a dramatic black-etched Kurozome Damascus finish that is both beautiful and functional.
Advantages include:
- Stainless Damascus cladding protects the core steel
- Increased blade durability
- Elegant high-contrast layered pattern
- Every knife has its own unique appearance
A finish that immediately distinguishes the Mercury series from conventional Damascus knives.
Kiri-Gyuto Profile
Combining the versatility of a Gyuto with the precision of a Kiritsuke tip, this hybrid profile excels at:
- Fine vegetable preparation
- Precision tip work
- Meat and fish preparation
- Long slicing cuts
- Push-cutting techniques
- Everyday kitchen tasks
The 210mm blade offers the ideal balance between agility and cutting efficiency.
Laser-Thin Grind
What truly sets this knife apart is its refined blade geometry.
The ultra-thin blade combined with a convex (Hamaguri) grind provides:
- Extremely low cutting resistance
- Exceptional food penetration
- Smooth, effortless cutting
- Improved food release
- Outstanding precision
It's the kind of cutting performance that immediately stands out from standard kitchen knives.
Octagonal Olivewood Handle
The traditional octagonal wa handle is crafted from beautifully figured olivewood.
Benefits include:
- Excellent balance
- Comfortable grip
- Lightweight handling
- Unique natural grain on every handle
- Warm contrast against the dark Damascus blade
Elegant, practical, and perfectly suited to the knife's premium character.
Specifications
Brand: Hatsukokoro
Series: Mercury
Knife Type: Kiri-Gyuto
Blade Length: 210mm (Approx. 215mm cutting edge)
Core Steel: SG2 (R2) Powder Steel
Hardness: 62–64 HRC
Construction: Stainless Damascus Clad
Finish: Kurozome Damascus
Grind: Convex (Hamaguri)
Bevel: Double Bevel (50:50)
Handle: Octagonal Olivewood
Origin: Japan
Care Instructions
Although SG2 is a stainless steel, proper care will help preserve both its performance and appearance.
- Hand wash only
- Dry thoroughly after use
- Never place in a dishwasher
- Avoid cutting bones, frozen foods, or very hard ingredients
- Use on wooden or quality synthetic cutting boards
- Store in a saya, blade guard, or magnetic knife holder
Complete Your Knife Setup
Pair it with:
- End-Grain Cutting Board
- Japanese Whetstones
- Leather Strop
- Ceramic Honing Rod
- Magnetic Knife Holder or Saya
Why We Chose This Knife
At Sharp Knives Malta, we only select knives that offer something genuinely exceptional.
The Hatsukokoro Mercury Kiri-Gyuto combines elite SG2 powder steel, an incredibly refined laser grind, and one of the most striking Damascus finishes available today. It delivers extraordinary cutting performance while remaining practical enough for daily use.
This is a knife that rewards good technique and continues to impress every time it touches the board.
Final Word
The Hatsukokoro Mercury Kiri-Gyuto 210mm represents modern Japanese knife-making at its finest.
Ultra-thin, exceptionally sharp, beautifully balanced, and visually unforgettable, it is built for cooks who refuse to compromise on performance.
Precision without resistance. Craftsmanship without compromise.