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Full view of the Higonokami Damascus knife, featuring a brass handle with engraved Japanese text and a partially extended Damascus blade.
Close-up view of the Higonokami Damascus knife blade, showcasing the intricate Damascus steel pattern and engraved Japanese characters on the blade near the brass pivot.
"Detailed view of the Higonokami Damascus knife handle in brass, engraved with Japanese characters, providing an authentic touch to the traditional craftsmanship.
Back side of the Higonokami Damascus knife handle with an engraving of bamboo and a tiger, symbolizing strength and resilience.
Side view of the Higonokami Damascus knife tip, highlighting the sharp blade edge and unique layered pattern characteristic of Damascus steel.
Higonokami Damascus knife presented in a traditional wooden box lined with green felt, with Japanese characters engraved on the box lid, adding elegance to the gift packaging.
Higonokami

Higonokami Blue Steel Damascus Clad Large Brass Folding Knife and Paulownia Gift Box

Sale price$129.00

This remarkable Higonokami folding knife exemplifies traditional Japanese craftsmanship, meticulously forged by skilled artisans. The blade features an Aogami Blue Steel core, which is surrounded by an 8-layer Damascus cladding in the Warikomi (clad) construction style. This technique, where the core steel is sandwiched between layers of softer steel, enhances the blade’s strength and durability while allowing for a razor-sharp edge. The Damascus layering creates a unique, rippling pattern on each blade, making every knife one-of-a-kind.

Adding to its distinctive charm, the reverse side of the brass handle bears an engraving of bamboo and a tiger, symbols of strength and resilience in Japanese culture. This intricate detail elevates the knife from a practical tool to a cherished piece of art.

Encased in a fine paulownia wood gift box, this knife is ideal for those who appreciate both functionality and artistry. The paulownia box adds a refined touch, making it perfect for gifting or display. With its sharp edge, robust construction, and symbolic engraving, the Higonokami Blue Steel Damascus Clad Folding Knife embodies the resilience and beauty of Japanese tradition.
Full view of the Higonokami Damascus knife, featuring a brass handle with engraved Japanese text and a partially extended Damascus blade.
Higonokami Blue Steel Damascus Clad Large Brass Folding Knife and Paulownia Gift Box Sale price$129.00

Meet the Artisan

Higonokami

In 1894, a hardware wholesaler named Mr. Tasaburo Shigematsu sought to create a more practical and affordable design inspired by a folding knife he encountered.  The resulting Higonokami knife, named after the former province where many of his customers resided, featured a folding blade and sheath operated by a small lever.  This innovation, coupled with the growing popularity of the design, led to the formation of the "Higonokami Knife Union" in 1899.

The union embodied the collective spirit of these artisans, with the Nagao family at its heart.  Komataro Nagao, the founder, established a company to produce knives in Miki City before transitioning to Higonokami production.  Following generations, Shigeharu Nagao secured the Higonokami trademark, while Akira, Motosuke, and the current generation's Mitsuo Nagao continued to refine and develop the design.  In 2021, Mitsuo Nagao took a significant step by formally establishing Nagao Kanekoma Factory Co., Ltd., solidifying the company's legacy and ensuring the future of this cherished craft.  Today, Nagao Kanekoma Factory stands as the sole producer of genuine Higonokami knives, carrying forward the legacy of these dedicated artisans.