Higonokami pocket knives: traditional Japanese pocket knives since 1896

Features of a Higonokami pocket knife

The construction of a traditional Higonokami is really simple. The handle is made from one piece of usually brass or stainless steel. This has been folded over, which forms the grip scales. This simple but effective construction keeps the price of a Higonokami quite low.

Typically, these knives are not fitted with a lock. The thumb rest (chikiri), and the friction of the hinge screw and handle ensure that the knife stays in the opened position during use. The friction of the handle scales also ensures that the knife does not open when it shouldn't. This type of knife is called a 'friction folder'. The reversed-tanto style blade, with its pointed tip, is another typical feature.

History of the Higonokami

The origins of the Higonokami are intertwined with Japanese history. Towards the end of the samurai era, the samurai lost many of their privileges. Including carrying a sword in public spaces. As a result, many blacksmiths lost their biggest customers and started mass-producing knives. Many of these blacksmiths settled around Miki, a region with many rivers and iron ore sands, and the historic birthplace of the Higonokami.

The name Higonokami is a contraction of 'Higo no Kami'. This means 'lord of Higo' in Japanese. An honorary title for samurai from the Higo region in Japan. In 1899, a knife makers' guild was established in Miki, which established the name 'Higonokami' as a trademark in 1907. Only members of the guild had the right to produce a Higonokami. At its peak, the guild counted as many as 50 blacksmiths. From carpenters to schoolchildren, everyone in Japan used to carry a Higonokami pocket knife.

The Higonokami has grown into one of the most famous knife designs ever. And it's deeply rooted in knife history. Today, the guild has all but disappeared. There's only one original creator who still produces them: Mr. Motosuke Nagao. You'll recognize his knives by their blue and gold cardboard boxes. According to tradition, he is the only one who is allowed to use the term Higonokami. Nevertheless, there are many other brands using this name. Such as the Japanese brand Ohta. They are just as distinctive!