Higonokami Kanetsune 4cm steel SK-5 brass handle pocket knife

The Japanese brand Kanetsune has been setting the standard in the design of Higonokami folding knives since 1964. With its wealth of know-how and expertise, it offers a vast selection of these pocket knives that left their mark on Japanese popular culture in the 60s.

The blade of this knife is crafted using the typical katana-making process known as San Mai, which consists of forging 3 layers of steel together. The "central sheet" is made of a compact carbon steel, SK-5, which is highly resistant to abrasion. Then, 1 sheet of soft steel "sandwiches" the first.

The knife's excellent handling is largely due to the blade opening mechanism. This is the historic Piedmontese system, called "Chikiri" in Japan, and relies on the lens at the end of the blade, which is pressurized to disengage with ease.

The flat, gilded brass handle adds strength to this Hogonokami. Like all authentic knives in this family, it is engraved with Japanese characters.

As carbon is oxidizable, the knife should be washed by hand and wiped directly with a soft cloth. It should not be put in the dishwasher or soaked. It's important to note that, despite careful care, a carbon knife may change color slightly over time, which is perfectly normal.

Find all the Higonokami Japanese pocket knives we offer on our Knifeleader.eu website!