Japanese Sickles

Which Japanese sickle is right for you

Start with how you plan to use it.

If you want to understand where these tools come from and how they evolved, read our
history of the sickle in the East West Tools journal.
It explains why Japanese sickles have thin, sharp blades and why they feel different from mass produced garden tools.

• Grass and soft growth: choose a lighter, thinner blade that slices cleanly through grass and soft stems.
• Weeds and rough ground: pick a slightly heavier blade that can bite into tougher stems and roots.
• Left or right handed: a left handed sickle puts the bevel on the correct side so the cut feels natural and controlled.
• Handle length: shorter handles feel quick and precise, longer handles give you more reach when you are working close to the ground.

Popular Japanese sickles in this range

If you are unsure where to start, use these as a guide.

• Everyday garden work: choose a medium sized sickle that can handle both grass and mixed weeds.
• Left handed gardeners: our dedicated left handed sickle gives you a clear view of the cut and better control. It is set up specifically for left handed use.
• Detail work around plants: a narrower blade helps you get in close without damaging nearby stems and trunks.

Care and safety

Sickles are very sharp and work best with a light touch.

• Always cut with the blade moving away from your body and legs.
• Keep the edge sharp with a medium grit whetstone so the tool slices cleanly instead of bouncing or tearing.
• Wipe the blade dry after use and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust, especially if you store tools in a shed or garage.
• Store your sickle in a safe place where children cannot reach it.

Pair your sickle with a simple maintenance kit and a good pair of Japanese secateurs so you can move from rough clearing to clean pruning without changing tools too often.