Higonokami Aogami,(blue paper steel) Pocket Knife

Higonokami Aogami,(blue paper steel) Pocket Knife

$59.00

Higonokami Aogami Pocket Knife by Nagao Kanekoma. 75 mm Blue Paper Steel blade in a classic friction-folder with chikiri lever. Compact, sharp, and Japan made for craft and everyday cuts. Perth dispatch across Australia.

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and support for exchanges or repairs when needed. Read the full policy here.

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We dispatch every weekday from Perth.
Orders over $250 ship FREE over $100 for our local legends.
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PRODUCT CARE

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Description

Aogami pocket knife for precise everyday cutting

From Nagao Kanekoma, the Higonokami Aogami is a compact friction-folder for craft, carving, and everyday utility. It slips into a pocket yet handles detailed cuts with control. Perth dispatch with careful packing across Australia. Browse Japanese Carving Knives or pair with Japanese Woodworking Tools.

The 75 mm blade uses an Aogami Blue No.2 core for high hardness and edge retention. It is ground thin for bite and easy touch-ups on a fine stone. The classic Higonokami format uses a friction joint and a top lever, the chikiri, for safe opening and controlled closing. A folded metal handle keeps weight down while protecting the blade. Total length is about 175 mm, giving reach without bulk.

Wipe clean after use and keep dry. Apply light oil to the blade and pivot. Sharpen with waterstones and avoid prying or twisting cuts. For steel background see Why Forged Carbon Steel? and general upkeep in Care & Maintenance.

Tip: support the spine with your thumb and use short slicing strokes to control depth on fine carving tasks.

Specifications
  • Sizes stocked: 175 mm overall; 75 mm blade
  • Steel stocked: Aogami Blue Paper Steel No.2 core
  • Other sizes available to order: Enquire for alternate lengths and finishes
  • Handles: Folded metal handle with chikiri lever
  • Joint: Friction folder pivot with manual tension
  • Origin: Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
  • Maker: Nagao Kanekoma Factory
  • Use: Fine carving, craft, everyday cutting
Maintenance

Keep the blade and joint dry after use. Wipe with a clean cloth and apply a thin coat of light oil to the pivot and edge to prevent corrosion. Sharpen with a fine waterstone when dull and avoid twisting or prying motions that can damage the edge. Store in a dry place and close carefully to prevent edge contact with the handle.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Higonokami a locking knife?

No. It is a friction folder. The chikiri lever and your grip keep the blade open during use. Close with care.

What is Blue Paper Steel?

Aogami Blue No.2 is a high carbon tool steel formulated for hardness and edge life. It sharpens finely and holds a keen edge.

What can I cut with it?

Paper, card, leather, cord, light timber carving, and everyday packaging. Avoid prying, twisting, or striking cuts.

How do I maintain the pivot?

Keep the joint clean and add a drop of light oil. If tension loosens, the pivot pin can be peened lightly by a professional.

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Introducing

Nagao Kanekoma - Higonokami

Nagao Kanekoma Factory of Miki, Hyogo is the longstanding maker of Higonokami knives. The workshop builds friction folders with thin grinds and reliable heat treatment, pairing a Blue Paper Steel core with a protective folded handle. The result is a practical pocket tool with century-old roots.

In use, the blade opens smoothly on the chikiri lever and makes controlled slicing cuts. The steel sharpens cleanly and holds a fine edge, while the simple friction joint keeps maintenance minimal. This is a compact, trustworthy knife for craft and daily tasks.

Explore Japanese Carving Knives

What Sets Our Tools Apart

Traditional Japanese friction folder

Higonokami is a simple, effective format. The blade opens with the chikiri lever and stays in position through friction and grip. This makes the knife slim and light, with fewer parts to service. It excels as a compact craft and everyday cutter that is quick to deploy and easy to sharpen, a practical tool for workshop and field carry.

Aogami edge for long service

The Blue Paper Steel core takes a fine edge and keeps working between touch-ups. It slices cleanly through card, cord, and timber fibres, and responds well to waterstones. Keep the bevels thin and use light, slicing strokes to get the best from the steel. A quick strop restores bite when you are between full sharpenings.

Compact size, real control

With a 75 mm blade and about 175 mm total length, this Higonokami balances reach with pocket carry. The folded metal handle protects the edge and offers a secure hold. Use your thumb on the spine for fine depth control in carving or trimming, then fold and pocket when done. It is an efficient everyday tool that earns its place in the kit.

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