Buck Knives Koji Hara Folder

September 12, 2007

Buck has a vaunted name in the knife world and this has certainly been bolstered by the collaborative efforts that they have undertaken with well acclaimed knifemakers.  One of their collaborations features one of the biggest names to come out of Seki City, Koji Hara.  For those unfamiliar with Seki City, it is the cradle of the knife making and sword making arts in Japan, and some would argue the world.  Koji Hara is a Japanese knife maker well known for his meticulously crafted bolsters and sleek ornate design work.  In the Model 204 Koji Folder (catalog number 5120), Buck Knives has been able to recreate Hara's mastery at a price ($170.00 retail) that will bring Hara's brilliance to a much larger audience, and undoubtedly put these unique creations in a great many collections and pockets.

This 2 1/4" blade is made of ATS-34 steel of the modified drop point design.  The handle is a artful combination of Burlwood with a unique stone-step stainless steel bolster that is characteristic of a number of Koji Hara's custom creations.  The mechanism is made for one handed opening and closing, with a locking liner.  The overall length of this pocket knife is 5 3/8" and the closed length is 3 1/8".  With a weight of a mere 1.8 ounces (51 grams), this knife will make a great every day carry (if you are not apt to put it on display)

And if you like this particular design, it is also available in a Koji Dagger and a Koji Fixed Blade.  Koji Hara has a world renowned reputation as a folder specialist, and the terraced "Airstep" design is a signature design for him.  This Buck made pocket knife is a great expression of a master knife makers body of work.