The Higo no Kami folding knife has a long history in Japan dating back to the late 19th century. A blacksmith is said to have added a simple lever to a minimally designed pocket knife to aid in opening and closing the blade and to set it apart from other knives. The knife proved to be successful and a guild was formed to oversee the manufacture of the knife. Only those belonging to the guild were allowed to manufacture the knife to specification and use the trademarked name "Higo no Kami". The term "Higo no Kami" means "Lord of Higo" in Japanese, in honor of the Lord of the Kyushu area of Japan, where the knife originated. Today, each Higo no Kami knife is still handmade by the last remaining maker in the guild, Nagao Kanekoma Seisakusho.
Blade Material | High Carbon Steel |
Product Care Instructions | Hand Wash Only |
Item Weight | 0.09 Kilograms |
Item Length | 8.5 Inches |
Blade Length | 3.5 Inches |
Blade Shape | Drop Point |
Blade Edge | Plain |
Is Product Cordless | Yes |
Reusability | Reusable |
Special Features | Foldable |
Theme | Japanese Culture |
Style | Japanese |
Color | Nickel |
J**B
Cool knife, real Japan, great value
I really like this knife. it’s the real deal from Japan, solid construction. Great value. definitely recommend.
A**R
Perfect knife for opening boxes or eating steak.
Not sure if this is an authentic Higo no Kami, but it looks like one. Very simple but usable knife. Didn't arrive very sharp but my cheap ceramic hone got it shave sharp in a few minutes.
J**J
Likely fake with SK steel (Not blue/aogami), still pretty good overall
The version I received had slight differences from the picture. There was no writing on the blade itself and there were only two distinct "shades" on the blade, not a third (which i believe would be Aogami). In addition, the knife itself came in a simple clear plastic bag/wrap. This along with a lot of online browsing has let me to believe that this may likely (at least the one I received) be a copy which is composed of an SK steel cutting edge. SK steel is considered to be lesser and more impure than blue aogami steel. This leaves me disappointed since I was really hoping for some good blue steel in an XL higo (not a big deal since I ordered a couple others which were authentic hehe). Overall however, the knife is still pretty decent, though a bit stiff at first. I've also managed to put a lovely mirror polish on it and it cuts magnificently, so I'm still content. I'll reiterate that this issue may have been mine alone, I have no idea.
J**R
Simple form and function. Great utility pocket knife. Begs to be carried on a daily basis
The package arrived on Tuesday, it was ordered late on Saturday. According to the packaging it came from Japan, if thats true Im stunned.Ive owned a smaller version in the past and ended up losing it in on a camping trip. Prior to that it was in my pocket all the waking day.This version is the XL which is longer and the finish is nicer. The blade and handle is in good shape despite the minimal packaging. It arrived in two small plastic bags, next time I'll order a gift box. Its for a friend.Just from what I've read this type of knife is a small utility knife in Japan, similar to a plain old wittling knife here. Kids carry them to sharpen pencils in school.Needs some fine sharpening upon arrival, and a layer of oil for protection. But that comes with most new knives. Overall its sturdy, keeps an edge, takes a beating all for $14 shipped with Prime. Good deal
J**S
I'm really happy with it, history and craftsmanship in a folding package.
This is a honeymoon review... I just got it 15 minutes ago. I recently got into knife collecting, nothing major. I wanted a few pocket knife style knives that were representative of the country which they were made. This is my first Japanese steel. Some have said that it feels like you are holding history, it really feels like old craftsmanship. The blade (has a stamp on it) feels strong and tool-like. I hit the strop a few times, and it is shaving sharp. The rivet is not too tight or loose. The problems listed in other reviews are not an issue with this one.I did want the blue presentation box but didn't get one. This arrived in a small see-through plastic sheath. It does not look refined, it is basic, yet it is my coolest knife. It some tool marks on it, and I believe this is going to age nicely. I'm really happy with it.If you look up for the article: Higokonami: The Archetype for Japanese Penknives by Dr. Ruldof Dick. He will explain who Nagao, Seishakusho, and, the old master (that you haven't bought off Amazon, Osamu Tomita. Nagao is 50 years old, so he is not the old master. But, his family is the originator of the Higonokami knife. If your Higonokami has a stamp on the blade, it is a Seishakusho made with machines. Both knives are similar, according to the tradition of the knife.
A**W
Pretty good for the price
- Simple and to-the-point- Friction is good on joint- Blade hits inside of handle when closed - this will dull/chip your blade- Not sharp at all - not even close. For a blade that is supposedly carbon steel and can take an edge like a razor, it is a shame to get it in such condition- Some sharper corners around handle do well to be filed down slightly
B**N
Great utility knife
Its really slim, blade is shape and looks like great steel. Perfect for a camping kit, tackle box . The blade doesn’t lock but the handle is very tight (purposely) and you keep part of your hand on the lever. Its great little cutting tool but don’t expect to use it like a hacking knife or forceful cutting. Think of it more like an improved X-acto knife or box cutter type roll.
K**L
Great value
I love this little knife
Trustpilot
2 weeks ago
1 month ago