This Hitohira saya is designed for 180 mm high-bladed Japanese nakiri knives. Made in Japan, in the Sanjo region (Niigata), it is crafted from ho wood (magnolia), a material traditionally used for Japanese sheaths due to its lightness, stability, and neutrality with regard to steel.
The internal profile is suitable for tall nakiri knives, with a compatible thickness of up to approximately 4.5 mm at the back. The two-part glued construction ensures that the blade is held securely in place while making it easy to insert and remove. The external dimensions are 227 × 75 × 12 mm and it weighs approximately 70 g, making it a discreet and space-saving protective case for transport or storage.
The finish is deliberately understated, without lacquer, highlighting the natural grain of the wood. A Hitohira marking is affixed to the surface. This saya is designed as a functional accessory, intended to protect the cutting edge and limit shocks or friction when the knife is not in use.
When in use, the ho wood provides a soft contact with the blade and reduces the risk of moisture retention. As withany natural wood saya, it is recommended to insert the knife when it is completely dry and to avoid prolonged storage in a humid environment in order to preserve both the saya and the Japanese knife it protects.
