Handmade in Japan by fifth-generation craftsmen in Miki, Hyogo Prefecture, this beautifully simple blue steel Higonokami folding knife is all about function, form, and heritage. No frills here — just a single, wickedly sharp blue steel blade housed in a solid brass handle that starts out bright and golden, then slowly ages into a rich, lived-in patina.

The blade’s blue steel core includes a touch of chromium, giving it excellent kirenaga (that’s edge retention), so it stays sharper for longer — perfect for everything from opening boxes and letters to a spot of whittling in the garden.

Built with a stiff, sturdy action that loosens over time (and can be tightened with a well-placed tap on the rivet), it’s a practical, pocket-sized tool that’s as satisfying to use as it is to look at.