Rare ONE-OFF Yukio Nibe NO.R5-26 Custom Knife – Warikomi Carbon Steel / Sabiji Finish / Urushi Wood Handle / Japan

Product Description

ONE-OFF | NO.R5-26 — A rare handmade custom knife by Japanese knife artist Yukio Nibe, inspired by traditional Japanese forging and antique-style craftsmanship.

This distinctive creation draws inspiration from traditional Japanese Ko-uchi Hamono, combining carbon steel, rustic metal textures, lacquered wood, and carefully selected metal accents.

The blade features a traditional Hagane Wariire construction, in which a cutting steel insert is incorporated into the blade structure.

This traditional Japanese blade-making technique reflects the craftsmanship and material knowledge associated with classic forged cutting tools.

The blade is finished with a distinctive Sabiji surface, creating a rustic, aged appearance that emphasizes the natural character of forged metal.

Rather than a modern mirror-polished finish, the blade embraces the understated beauty of textured steel and antique-inspired Japanese craftsmanship.

With a cutting edge measuring approximately 126mm and a blade thickness of 6.4mm, the knife features a clean, substantial silhouette.

The handle is crafted from natural wood with a traditional wiped-lacquer finish (Fuki-urushi), allowing the wood’s natural grain and texture to remain an essential part of the design.

Brass accents complement the warm tones of the lacquered wood, adding a subtle decorative contrast.

The accompanying sheath is made from Ho wood (Japanese magnolia) with a lacquered finish and copper components, continuing the piece’s traditional aesthetic.

From the blade’s Hagane Wariire construction and rustic Sabiji finish to the lacquered wooden handle and matching sheath, every element reflects Yukio Nibe’s distinctive approach to traditional materials and craftsmanship.

NO.R5-26 is more than a custom knife. It is a ONE-OFF collectible work celebrating Japanese forging traditions, lacquer craftsmanship, and the timeless beauty of wabi-sabi aesthetics.

Made in Japan.

Specifications

Artist: Yukio Nibe

Model: NO.R5-26

Edition: ONE-OFF

Product Type: Handmade Custom Art Knife

Style: Antique-Inspired Japanese Knife

Blade Material: Carbon Steel

Blade Construction: Hagane Wariire (Inserted Cutting Steel)

Blade Finish: Sabiji (Rustic, Aged-Style Finish)

Handle Materials: Natural Wood (Species Unknown), Brass

Handle Finish: Fuki-urushi (Traditional Wiped Lacquer)

Sheath Materials: Lacquered Ho Wood (Japanese Magnolia), Copper

Cutting Edge Length: Approx. 126mm

Blade Length: Approx. 136mm

Overall Length: Approx. 226mm

Overall Length with Sheath: Approx. 249mm

Blade Thickness: Approx. 6.4mm

Knife Weight: Approx. 169g

Weight with Sheath: Approx. 203g

Country of Origin: Japan

Notes

The rustic Sabiji finish and textured blade surface are intentional characteristics of the artist’s design.

The handle is made from natural wood; the exact wood species has not been identified.

Carbon steel requires proper care to prevent unwanted corrosion. Keep the blade clean and dry during storage.

Sale to minors is prohibited.