Product Description
Non-locking knife: The Higonokami HIGO11L is a traditional friction folder with no lock. The blade is held open by your grip on the extended tang and the friction of the pivot, and it can close if pressure is applied to the spine. Keep your fingers clear of the edge.
The Higonokami HIGO11L is the large brass version of a classic Japanese pocketknife, made in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, by Mitsuo Nagao, the fifth generation of the Nagao family to make it. Nagao Kanekoma Factory says the Higonokami has been made there since 1894, and it holds the Higonokami name.
The 3.75" reverse tanto blade is san mai construction: an Aogami (Blue Paper Steel) core clad on both sides with soft iron. Aogami is a high-carbon Japanese steel alloyed with chromium and tungsten, known for taking a very keen edge and holding it well. The soft iron cladding adds toughness and gives the blade its layered look. As a carbon steel, it will develop a patina with use, which is normal and part of the character of a Higonokami.
- Blade: 3.75" san mai Aogami (Blue Paper Steel) reverse tanto with soft iron cladding, plain edge, 0.11" thick.
- Handle: Folded brass sheet stamped with kanji for the maker's name and the Higonokami mark; the blade sits fully inside the handle when closed; 5.25" closed, 2.43 oz.
- Deployment + Lock: Opens by pressing the extended tang (chikiri); no lock, held open by grip and pivot friction.
- Carry: Pocket carry, with a lanyard hole in the handle and no clip; 9.0" overall.
Ideal for: collectors of traditional Japanese knives; woodworkers and craftsmen who want a keen carbon steel blade for fine cutting; and anyone who appreciates a simple knife with a long history.
Care note: Aogami is a carbon steel, not a stainless steel. It will patina and can rust, so wipe it clean and dry after use and keep a light coat of oil on the blade. The brass handle will also darken over time.
The Higonokami HIGO11L in san mai Aogami with a brass handle ships same or next business day from Columbia, Louisiana.
Higonokami HIGO11L: Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Higonokami HIGO11L.
Does the Higonokami HIGO11L lock?＋
No. The Higonokami is a traditional friction folder with no lock. You open it by pressing the extended tang (chikiri), and your grip on the tang plus the friction of the pivot hold the blade open. The blade can close if pressure is applied to the spine, so use it for cuts that push the edge away from you and keep your fingers clear of the edge.
Who makes the Higonokami?＋
The HIGO11L is made in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, by Mitsuo Nagao, the fifth generation of the Nagao family at Nagao Kanekoma Factory. The factory says the Higonokami has been made there since 1894, and it holds the Higonokami name. The kanji stamped on the brass handle mark the maker and the Higonokami name.
What is san mai Aogami (Blue Paper Steel)?＋
Aogami, also called Blue Paper Steel, is a high-carbon Japanese steel alloyed with chromium and tungsten. It is known for taking a very keen edge and holding it well. San mai means the Aogami core is clad on both sides with soft iron, which adds toughness, protects the hard core, and gives the blade a layered appearance.
How do I care for the carbon steel blade and brass handle?＋
Aogami is a carbon steel, not a stainless steel, so it will develop a patina and can rust if left wet or dirty. Wipe the blade clean and dry after use and keep a light coat of oil on it. The patina that forms over time is normal and helps protect the steel. The brass handle will also darken with handling.
What comes with the Higonokami HIGO11L?＋
The HIGO11L ships as the knife alone, with no pocket clip, sheath, or lanyard included. It has a lanyard hole in the handle. Packaging and included items are set by the maker and are subject to change.
Where is the Higonokami HIGO11L made, and what warranty covers it?＋
The HIGO11L is made in Miki City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. It is a genuine Higonokami product from Nagao Kanekoma Factory, sourced through its authorized distribution channel, and warranty coverage is provided by the manufacturer under its own published terms. Contact the manufacturer directly for warranty terms and service. Knifeworks does not warranty this product independently, but our team is happy to help you find the right contact.
AOGAMI SAN MAI · BRASS · MADE IN JAPAN
A Classic Japanese Friction Folder
A 2.43 oz pocketknife with a 3.75-inch san mai Aogami reverse tanto blade and a folded brass handle. Note that this knife does not lock. Questions? Our team can help. We ship same or next business day from Columbia, Louisiana.
Call 888-225-9775Warranty Information
Higonokami Warranty: This is a genuine Higonokami product from Nagao Kanekoma Factory, sourced through its authorized distribution channel. Warranty coverage is provided by the manufacturer under its own published terms, which typically cover defects in materials and workmanship and exclude normal wear, misuse, and alterations. Contact the manufacturer directly for warranty terms and service. Knifeworks does not warranty this product independently, but our team is happy to help you find the right contact. Call 888-225-9775.Specifications
| Product Type | Folding Knife | |
| Product Brand | Higonokami | |
| Product Name | Higonokami Large Brass | |
| Model # | HIGO11L | |
| Overall Length (in) | 9.0 in | |
| Closed Length | 5.25 in | |
| Blade Length | 3.75 in | |
| Blade Thickness | 0.11 in | |
| Blade Material | San Mai Aogami (Blue Paper Steel) | |
| Blade Style | Reverse Tanto | |
| Blade Edge | Plain Edge | |
| Blade Finish | Satin (carbon steel, will patina) | |
| Handle Material | Brass | |
| Lock Type | None (Friction Folder) | |
| Clip Position | None | |
| Weight | 2.43 oz | |
| Origin | Japan (Miki City, Hyogo) | |
| Blade Range | 3.5-3.99 | |
| Action | Manual | |
| Handle Color | Brass | |
| Opener | Extended Tang (Chikiri) | |
| Designer / Maker | Mitsuo Nagao, Nagao Kanekoma Factory | |
| Included | Knife only (no clip, no sheath) |
