Japanese Digging & Weeding Tools

Yes. The forged high-carbon steel edges bite into clay and fibrous grasses when kept sharp. For couch or kikuyu runners, use short, controlled chops with a field hoe or a sharpened weeding sickle, then lift with a soil knife. Avoid striking rocks; let the tool’s weight and edge do the work.

Use a hand weeder / nejiri-gama for shallow weeds and tight beds. A soil knife (hori-hori) excels at lifting taproots, dividing clumps, and planting. For compacted soil, turf edges, and small roots, reach for a field hoe / kuwa. Choose a narrower blade for precision; a heavier head for clay or rooty ground.

Knock off soil, rinse, and dry after use. Wipe steel with a light oil (e.g., camellia) to prevent rust. Remove sap or light rust with a rust eraser. Touch up the bevel with a medium water stone (1000–1200 grit) or a fine mill file, keep the original angle and avoid power grinders. Store dry; oil wooden handles periodically.