Nagao Seisakusho
Higo no Kami Aogami-Honwarikomi Tokudai
A Japanese friction-folder pocket knife with a laminated blue-paper steel blade. No lock — just a lever and pivot.
$30
This is a Higonokami-style folding knife from Nagao Kanekoma Seisakusho, the maker that holds the trademark on the name. The blade is Aogami steel in a warikomi construction — a harder core wrapped in softer steel.
It's a friction folder, so there's no lock. You hold pressure on the lever while you use it. Takes a little getting used to if you've only used locking knives, but it's how this design has worked for over a century.
The steel will rust if you leave it wet. Wipe it down after use, put a little camellia oil on the blade, and keep it somewhere dry. If you or someone you're giving this to doesn't want to do that, this isn't the right knife.
Why it works
- Simple, traditional design — no springs or complicated mechanisms.
- Aogami steel holds an edge well if you maintain it.
- Made by the only company that can legally use the Higonokami trademark.
Who it's for
- Someone who likes maintaining their tools and doesn't mind oiling a blade.
- A knife person who wants the recognized original version.
What to know
- No lock — you hold the lever while cutting.
- Wipe it dry and oil it after use or it will rust.
- You'll need to sharpen it yourself eventually. They recommend a whetstone.
