The Higonokami knife has a storied history that dates back to the late 19th century in Japan. It originated in the Hyogo prefecture, specifically in the town of Miki, which was renowned for its blacksmithing tradition. The name "Higonokami" is a tribute to the Higo province, where the knife first gained popularity, and "kami," which means "god" or "protector." During the Meiji period (1868-1912), these folding pocket knives became synonymous with Japanese craftsmanship. They were often carried by farmers, craftsmen, and the former samurai class due to their practicality and versatility. The Higonokami knife was a symbol of utility and reliability in the daily lives of the Japanese people. The Short & Sweet: The Higonokami Folder continues to captivate knife enthusiasts for several reasons: Heritage and Tradition: The knife embodies centuries of Japanese craftsmanship and tradition, making it a collector's item for those who appreciate the cultural significance of their tools. Functional Simplicity: Its minimalist design and efficient friction folder mechanism appeal to those who value simplicity and reliability in a pocket knife. Superior SK Steel "only SK models": The SK steel blade's exceptional sharpness and edge retention make it a practical choice for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures. (All models must be maintained with oil to avoid oxidation overtime) Collector's Appeal: Higonokami knives come in various sizes and designs, catering to collectors looking for unique pieces of Japanese cutlery history. Everyday Carry (EDC) Utility: Its compact size and portability make it a popular choice for EDC enthusiasts who require a dependable cutting tool in their daily lives. Manufactured by: Nagao Kanekoma Factory Co., Ltd. 5th generation carrying on the craftsmanship and tradition of the Higonokami. We have nine flavors of Folders available with blades 1.5" to 2.63" : 1. SK Folder Brass 1.5" 2" closed. 1.5" SK5 carbon steel blade. Brass handle. Extended tang. HRC 60. Hang packaged. 2. SK Folder Brass 1.5" with Brown Leather Sheath 2.5" closed. 1.5" satin finish SK5 carbon steel blade. Brass handle. Extended tang. Slip joint. HRC 60. Brown leather sheath. Boxed. 3. SK Folder Brass with Bell 1.5" 2" closed. 1.5" SK5 carbon steel blade. Brass handle. Extended tang. HRC 60. Lanyard with bell. Hang packaged. 4. Blue Paper Brass Folder 2" 3.5" closed. 2" blue paper steel blade. Brass handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. Boxed. 5. Blue Paper Brass Folder 2" with Brown Leather Sheath 3.5" closed. 2" blue paper steel blade. Brass handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. Slip joint. Brown leather sheath. Boxed. 6. SK Folder Stainless 2.63" 3.63" closed. 2.63" SK5 carbon steel blade. Stainless handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. HRC 60. Hang packaged. 9. SK Folder Black 2.63" 3.63" closed. 2.63" SK5 carbon steel blade. Black stainless handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. HRC 60. Hang packaged. 10. SK Folder 2.63" 3.63" closed. 2.63" SK5 carbon steel blade. Stainless handle. Lanyard hole. Extended tang. HRC 60. Bulk packed. Handle and Joint may very in slight color and slight size. 13. SK No 3. Folder Black 2.63" 3.63" (9.22cm) closed. 2.63" (6.68cm) SK5 carbon steel blade. Black stainless handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. Slip joint. HRC 60. Bulk packed. 14. SK No 4. Folder Black 2.63" 3.63" closed. 2.63" SK5 carbon steel blade. Black stainless handle. Extended tang. Lanyard hole. HRC 60. Bulk packed. - MADE IN JAPAN All Higonokami Folders must be maintained with oil or knife lubricant to prevent rust
