Scissors, knives, sickles, axes, chisels, nail clippers…. Japan and Germany are the two big names when it comes to good quality steel blade products.
In Japan there has never been a clear distinction between art, craft and design. Generations of artisans have refined their skills, which are admired around the world, to the point where a product intended for everyday use could equally be worthy of museum display.
There are seven regions that are famous for forged steel blade products in Japan. It is hard to determine which region is the best as each has their own strengths. Sakai, for example, is best known for professional chefs knives while Takefu, Yasugi and Tosa are more known for quality agricultural or forestry tools. Craftsmanship of Seki blades is derived from centuries of sword making from the time of samurais. Miki has a reputation for their superb carpentry tools. As Shokunin Store started as a garden tool distributor, we cannot go without mentioning Sanjo, Niigata. On our first visit to Sanjo to meet our suppliers, we were told there were over 300 companies that made secateurs back in the days before the global competitors and shrinking domestic market affected the industry.
We are aware much cheaper secateurs are made outside of Japan. Just try our products. You will immediately feel the difference. When cared for properly these tools can last a lifetime, making them fantastically sustainable.