Description

Master Custom knifemaker Ikuo Nagata from Akita, Japan, is a 69-year-old artisan celebrated for blending mechanical precision with artistic inlay work. His folders are known for flawless construction, refined finishing, and a unique balance between practicality, creativity, and aesthetic beauty.

Mr. Nagata’s craftsmanship has earned him numerous accolades, including the Best Folder Award at the Seki Knife Show and the Excellent Folder Award at the JKG Knife Contest.

Ikuo Nagata IN-120 “Abalone Eye in Green Forest”

Unveiled at the 2025 Seki Knife Show, this latest creation showcases Nagata’s refined craftsmanship—featuring a button-lock mechanism and a stunning SPG-2 powdered high-speed tool steel Damascus blade, combining practicality, elegance, and precision.

Veteran Japanese custom knifemaker Ikuo Nagata selected each material carefully, crafted with his signature precision, delicate hand-finishing, and refined artistry. The handle features Forest Green Jigged Bone scales, seamlessly matched to solid stainless-steel one-piece bolsters and liners, all hand-rounded and file-worked along the spine.

The highlight is the Abalone inlay, which adds a rugged yet elegant contrast—perfectly harmonizing with the organic texture of the Jigged Bone and overall appearance and balance.

Every curve, joint, and polish speaks of countless hours of care and mastery. Nagata’s design philosophy shines through—every detail is intentional, every surface finished with devotion. The result is not merely a knife, but a functional work of art that embodies the heart and spirit of Japanese craftsmanship.

Comes with a black velvet pouch and a handcrafted Ho-wood box.

SPG-2 Damascus blade in 2.8mm thick, 80mm blade, 185mm in open , Weight 105g

Specifications

Knife Model: Ikuo Nagata Custom Folding Knife  – IN-120 “Abalone Eye in Green Forest”
Blade Material:SPG-2 Powdered High Speed Tool steel Damascus 
Rockwell Hardness (HRc):  62 to 63

Handle Material: Forest Green Jigged Bone Handle with Abalone  inlaid

Overall Length: 185mm in open
Blade Length: 80m
Blade Thickness: 2.8mm
Weight: 105g

Velvet cloth pouch & Wooden box:  Included.