Japanese knife handles are very simple, elegant and functional. They’re not riveted into place like Western style handles, making them easier to replace when they get damaged or need replacing.
There are many different styles and materials to choose from. Some of the most popular are made from a combination of wood and metal.
Magnolia
Magnolia is a beautiful, light-colored wood often paired with striking ferrules/collars. It’s also an extremely durable option for a handle.
Magnolia, the genus of about 225 species of trees and shrubs, is native to Asia and North America. They are valued for their large, fragrant flowers and handsome leaves and fruits.
Many of the species are important garden ornamentals, while others serve as local timber sources. They are also grown for their attractive foliage, which ranges from shiny and waxy to soft and green.
They’re especially popular in the South, with different species, hybrids, and selections that thrive across the diverse climates of the region. In addition to their floral fragrance, they are known for the essential oil linalool, which can help to relieve menstrual cramps.
Shitan
Shitan is an aloof yet easygoing guy with a strong feeling for his friends. He was one of the six samurai ninja comrades to join Fena Houtman’s crew at the end of the anime, and his loyalty shows through in every way possible.
As the name implies, a Japanese knife handle is often made from wood or other natural materials. A few common woods include walnut and chestnut which are both durable and lightweight, and are also very easy to sand so that they are nearly impervious to moisture damage.
Micarta handles are also quite popular, particularly Linen Micarta, as they are very resistant to water damage. Be aware though, that they can be very slippery and need to be handled with care.
Enju
Enju is a ten year old girl with glowing red eyes and a high opinion of herself. She is partnered with Rentaro Satomi and is one of the Cursed Children who carry the Gastrea Virus infection in their bodies.
Her ability to control the virus is a hidden superhuman power that allows her to transform into a powerful regenerating animalistic creature. She has the ability to high kick really hard and can kill Gastrea Gasters in seconds.
She also possesses the ability to carry her partner while leaping 20 meters in the air.
She is a base-breaking character and her personality contrasts wildly from the cynical nature of many main characters in recent anime. She is a great counterpoint to Tina’s cynical nature and has the lovable personality of a precocious little sister.
Hiba
Often mistaken for ebony, Hiba is a relatively rare species that’s native to Japan. It’s a remarkably tough wood that’s fungicidal and antibacterial, which makes it ideal for the handle of a high quality Japanese knife.
To make the best knife handle possible, you need a few key components: an epoxy, some good sandpaper and the proper sized circle sander. The first step in the process is to sand your wood scales to a smooth finish. Next, you need to sand the front of your blade to an even smoother finish. Then you need to use the aforementioned sanding tools to reshape your handle. The most important thing to remember here is that you must be meticulous with your sanding and polishing steps. This will prevent your knife from getting sanded into a mushy mess!
Yew
Yew is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs that are commonly used in hedges, foundation plantings, and topiaries. They’re very versatile plants that can grow in full sun or shade and add a nice touch to any garden.
Yews like well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic pH. They’ll also appreciate a couple inches of high-quality fertilizer worked into the soil each spring.
They can be grown in nearly any location and respond incredibly well to pruning. A decent pruning prior to new growth in early spring will both reinvigorate the plant and keep it in an optimal shape.