Nisaku NJP800 Yamagatana Hori Weeding & Digging Knife, Japanese Stainless Steel 7.25 Blade, 5.5-Inch Ergonomic Plastic Handle

I've always had an appreciation for the pragmatic design of Japanese tools - especially the saws and chisels used in traditional Japanese carpentry. This 'hori' is no different and the quality is immediately evident in the blade's stainless steel finish. The blade itself is 1/8" thick (3.24mm), and the width is nearly 2". It feels nice and sturdy in my hands, and is neither too heavy nor too light. The embossed ruler on the concave side of the hori is fairly accurate for both inch and millimetre scales, which surprised me because I've come to expect the addition of this sort of feature to be done poorly. The only thing that I consider to be a potential issue with it is the polymer handle. I don't know exactly what kind of plastic it is and the description for the listing does not specify; but living in Arizona, the ever-present UV light can cause plastics to deteriorate and fail (if you leave it sitting outside). Though you can always opt for the version with a wooden handle, but that would mean sacrificing the hilt (which on a double-edged blade made for stabbing into the ground, I wouldn't want my hand to accidentally slide down the blade when it suddenly and forcefully encounters a rock). The partial-tang is also a little "meh" because it means the hori isn't balanced - but since it's technically not a knife, I feel like I'm probably being a little too picky. Finally, the plastic sheath that comes with it seems reasonable enough, especially if you're only using it for gardening. I bought this to carry in my rucksack on hikes or for occasions such as metal-detecting/hobby-geology. With that in mind, I don't feel as though the sheath will stand up to a whole lot of abuse over time, so I plan to make one from leather. Overall, I appreciate the craftsmanship - it's pleasing both aesthetically and ergonomically, even if it is just a tool for digging the weeds or whatever it is you choose to do. *It worked well digging up a few weeds in my yard, and the ground is quite solid here. If it doesn't hold up to actual use or I encounter any issues, then I'll update my review accordingly.

Works great, cuts through roots, pots etc. flops and bangs around in holster even with the loop attached. Still a great tool

My wife and I lived in Japan for two years and know that they value high quality products. This in one of them. This hori-hori garden knife is amazingly useful. To start with, the stainless steel blade is a work of art: super sharp, strong, slightly concave, with a straight and serrated edge, and a super pointy tip. The blade also has inch and metric measurements. What is it good for? Almost anything you can imagine. You can dig, cut (it works really well for cutting through roots), split plants, weed, open bags, or even defend yourself! And the best part is with the stainless steel and plastic handle, you wash it off and it looks like new. It's an amazing tool!

Update: Used this on the Appalachian Trail, Benton MacKay, & Natchez Trace to dig cat holes. It’s nice because you know how far you’ve dug. No guessing on depth. Cut through the dirt and roots nicely. I put the whole thing in my “privy bag” so it’s protected, therefore I didn't have to worry about the sheath breaking. It’s very easy to clean as well. • As I said when I originally gave my review, it’s also good enough as a weapon. When my son was with me, I gave this to him to sleep with in his tent. It’s sharp and pointy but not quite as dangerous as a real knife that I worried he’s cut a finger off when looking at it in curiousity. When I’m alone, it’s in my tent ready to defend if needed. And, while hiking, it is a piece of mind to have this out and nearby while in a *ahem* compromising position. • Original review: Actually using this for cat holes while hiking but could double as a weapon if needed. Nice and sharp, not heavy.

Then what are these for a while. I went to Menards and bought a fisker's brand hori hori knife. This one's much better. It's sharper, it's thicker, it has a nicer sheath. When the price dropped to $15 I snagged it. Buy one. It's one of the nicest, handiest tools I have for gardening and yard work. Just be careful cuz it is sharp and you can cut yourself easily.