Ohta FK5 Higonokami-pocket knife, purple heart

The Ohta FK5 higonokami pocket knife was designed and made by hand by Hiroaki Ohta. This Japanese knifemaker's design bears close resemblance to the famous Higonokami knives. Strictly speaking, it isn't a Higonokami knife because there is only one producer that can use the term Higonokami.

The reverse tanto blade is made from D2 steel and has a full flat grind. The blade has two colours - matte black and metallic. Not only do these colours contrast nicely, but the matte black finish also protects the steel from corrosion.

When the knife is closed, you open the blade by pushing the latch at the front of the knife towards the spine of the handle. You keep pressing the latch with your thumb to make sure the knife doesn't close while you're using it. To close the knife, use your hand to push the blade back in. Because this knife doesn't have a lock, it complies with the local laws and regulations in many countries with regard to carrying folding knives.

Higonokamis

The first Higonokamis were produced by blacksmiths who also made samurai swords. When the samurai were relieved of their duties, these blacksmiths were forced to find another way to make money.

With its perfect simplicity and functionality, the higonokami became a very popular type of knife. It seemed to get forgotten for a while, but higonokami knives are back! New materials and variations have given these knives a new lease of life.

Purpleheart wood

This type of wood is extremely dense and water-resistant. Purpleheart wood is also one of the hardest and stiffest woods worldwide. The scales for this knife are made from the core of the tree. This wood has a very distinctive purple colour. When exposed to UV light, the wood changes colour, bringing out the brown undertone. If you use a lacquer that blocks UV radiation, you can prevent this from happening. The scales of the knives are not lacquered, still have that purple colour, and are made from one piece of wood.

Please note: this is a natural product. Each knife is unique and the pattern of the wood may vary.