The Hori Hori is a Japanese garden knife with a unique blend of digging and cutting features.
Thanks to its shape and size, with it you can dig, transplant, saw, cut, and even measure soil depth for planting bulbs.
Wonderfully versatile, its easy to use and will quickly become one of those must have tools for your kit bag.
Recently, my faithful old garden knife finally gave up the ghost and I reluctantly had to bid it farewell.
So I was in the market for a new one, or two. Here are five of the best hori hori knives Ive come across.
The Best Hori Hori Knives for Your Garden Chores
I have also included a handy buyers guide with more information about this garden knife, and what to consider when choosing yours.
The Best Hori Hori Knives for Your Garden Chores
First up is our top pick, with four others to follow that all have slightly different features that you may find more suitable for your needs.
Top Pick Up Front: Nisaku NJP800 Weeding and Digging Knife
Our top pick comes straight from the land of its origin: Japan. Made from top-quality stainless steel, forged by master craftsmen, this model boasts an ergonomic handle for ease of use. Its available from Nisaku via Amazon.
Nisaku NJP800 Weeding and Digging Knife
The concave blade makes short work of the toughest garden jobs. Perfect for weeding, transplanting, hacking away at overgrown shrubs, or dividing perennials, this multipurpose knife gets it all done.
The ergonomic handle may be slightly on the small side for those with bigger hands. I appreciate the protective hilt to prevent my hand slipping down onto the blade when digging in compacted soil.
Nisaku also makes a version of this knife using their top-quality stainless steel infused with vanadium, making it even harder and stronger at a slightly higher price, you can see this model also on Amazon.
The super-sharp blade features a bevelled edge for slicing and a serrated edge for cutting through tough roots. Depth measurements in both millimeters and inches make planting bulbs a breeze.
Its half-tang, but dont let that deter you. Using full-width design, the half tang allows for the blade to be constructed from thicker steel without making it heavy and cumbersome.
An attractive vinyl sheath keeps the blade and your hands safe from harm when not in use. But Id have preferred a leather sheath to go with a knife of this quality, and a belt hook wouldnt have gone amiss.
See the Nisaku and check prices now on Amazon.
Features
- 7.25-inch concave stainless steel blade
- 5.5-inch ergonomic plastic handle with protective hilt
- 7.7 ounces
- Depth measuring ruler in inches and millimeters
- Plastic sheath
- 2-year standard warranty
Pros
- Rust-proof heavy duty blade stays sharp and tackles the toughest garden jobs
- Ergonomic handle gives a good grip and the protective hilt prevents injury
Cons
- Lack of belt hook, with a plastic sheath
- Half-tang blade design can upset some purists
- Ergonomic handgrip can feel a bit small in the hand
If you want a handsome multifunction garden knife straight out of Japan, you wont go wrong with this model.
If youve got large hands, you may find the handle a bit thin and uncomfortable, in which case Id recommend you try the wooden handled version below.
And if you dont fancy a wooden handle but want something that fills the hand a bit more, try the Sensei model described below instead.
Head to Amazon to read customer reviews and check prices now.
Nisaku NJP802 Hori Hori Weeding and Digging Knife
It really is a toss-up between this knife and our top-rated one. The difference between the two only comes down to the design of the handle. The Nisaku NJP802 is available via Amazon.
Nisaku NJP802 Hori Hori Weeding and Digging Knife
Made from the same Japanese stainless steel, and forged in Japan, this blade is concave, with a serrated edge on one side and a sharp bevelled edge on the other. The difference comes down to the choice of handgrip.
The wooden handle will please traditionalists and those who want a more authentic looking Japanese knife. But its not just looks that count.
The wood makes the knife a bit heavier, and because its wider than the plastic version, it gives a solid feel in the hand.
But because it has square edges and is not contoured, the handle can become uncomfortable with extended use. This is easily alleviated by wearing gloves.
I appreciate the metal hilt between handle and blade, giving a bit of protection against hand-slippage, particularly when tackling tough roots or hard soil.
The half-tang construction is definitely a bone of contention for some people. Its easy to see why it is not possible to craft a full-tang blade with the ergonomic plastic handle of the previous model but with a full-width wooden version, its somewhat baffling.
That said, unless you are prying heavy rocks out of the ground or using it for something other than garden duty, this choice mostly comes down to personal preference.
As an added bonus, this model ships with a leather sheath that can be clipped to your belt.
See more customer reviews and check price on Amazon now.
Features
- 7.25-inch concave stainless steel blade
- 5.5-inch ergonomic plastic handle with protective hilt
- 8.5 ounces
- Depth measuring ruler in inches and millimeters
- Leather sheath
- 2-year standard warranty
Pros
- Robust, rust-proof stainless steel blade tackles the toughest jobs with ease
- Protective metal hilt between blade and handle prevents hand slippage
- Handsomely crafted wooden handle is easy to grip and feels solid in the hand
Cons
- Half-tang design
- Handle can be uncomfortable for extended use
Nisaku has created a tough, multipurpose tool with this model. The minor compromise of the half-tang design makes it a lightweight, well-balanced implement that tackles the toughest garden chores, thanks to the top-quality stainless steel blade.
Get more information and check prices on Amazon now.
Sensei Tools Hori Hori Digging Knife
With the Sensei garden knife youll be master of your garden in no time. If the slender handle of the Nisaku feels a bit dainty to you, then this one from Sensei Tools via Amazon is worth a look.
Sensei Tools Hori Hori Digging Knife
Who doesnt love a knife called Sensei? With its sleek black handle, contrasting with the glistening metal blade, this feels less gardening tool and more field knife.
Except, on closer inspection, it combines its good looks with the same concave digging blade with serrated and bevelled edge of the previous models.
Its got the same convenient depth measurements for planting your crocus bulbs, and a similarly hard-wearing rust-proof stainless steel blade.
The handle is non-slip plastic, and the way its designed fits firmly in the hand. The contour where it joins the blade serves as an almost-hilt, preventing your hand from slipping onto the blade.
Its slightly heavier than the previous two models, but not noticeably so.
To make things even better, it ships with a leather sheath that fits onto your belt.
I wouldnt walk around town with it on your belt though, as when the rugged, black handle sticks out of the sheath, it looks a bit like a dagger.
Check prices of the Sensei on Amazon now.
Features
- 7.5-inch concave stainless steel blade
- 5.5-inch black contoured non-slip plastic handle
- 10.1 ounces
- Depth measuring ruler in inches
- Robust leather sheath with belt clip
- 90-day 100% money back guarantee
Pros
- Non-slip handgrip is ergonomic and comfortable in the hand
- Concave blade is rust-proof stainless steel, and cuts through tough roots and compacted soil with ease
- Ships with a genuine leather sheath
Cons
- Handle may be too big if youve got small hands
- Half-tang design
With its very rugged looks, this garden tool tackles all those tough jobs with ease. I like the handle on this one because it feels solid and is more comfortable to use than the wooden models, so you dont need to wear gloves.
The half-tang design neednt put you off as Neil, the manufacturer, stated in an email to me we have yet to have a complaint about the knife breaking or the blade becoming detached, so Im sure that yours will stand up to any kind of heavy work you put it to!
He goes on to say that Sensei offers a full, no-quibbles warranty, so in the unlikely event that you did have any problems, wed be happy to replace it or refund you.
Sounds good to me!
See more customer reviews and check price on Amazon now.
Truly Garden Hori Hori
The Truly Garden hori hori, available on Amazon, ships with a genuine leather sheath and a sharpening tool.
Crafted to top-notch standards, this model features a high-grade 420 stainless steel blade that extends into a full tang for superb strength.
And a handsome, sustainable beechwood handle is securely attached with three rust-proof rivets. Its a little bit heavier than some of the other models, but it makes up for this with its super-sharp edges.
The blade has a concave trowel shape with depth measurements for easy digging and transplanting. And both the straight and serrated edges have been pre-sharpened for clean, efficient cutting.
This Japanese garden knife arrives handsomely packaged in an attractive box, and comes with a robust leather sheath plus diamond sharpening rod all of which makes this a great gift for any gardener.
Check prices for the Truly Garden Hori Hori at Amazon now.
Features
- 7-inch pre-sharpened, curved stainless steel blade
- 5-inch hardwood handle with 3 rivets
- 18 ounces
- Depth measuring ruler in inches and millimeters
- Metal safety guard at the base of the handle
- Genuine leather sheath
- Diamond sharpening rod
- 5-year warranty
Pros
- Robust, full tang, rust-proof blade cuts easily through roots and compacted soil
- Leather sheath is heavy-duty to prevent accidents when not in use
- Diamond sharpening rod keeps both the straight and serrated edges sharp
Cons
- Wooden handgrip is not ergonomically designed and may tire your hand
- Metal tang and rivets stick out slightly from the handle, which can be uncomfortable without gloves
Truly Garden offers a 30-day money back guarantee and a solid 5-year warranty, delivering top quality and value for the price. This model is made in China.
A tough workhorse of a knife, this model looks the part. And we appreciate the metal safety guard, which helps prevent your hand slipping off the handle and on to the blade.
See more customer reviews and check current price on Amazon now.
Budget Pick: Fiskars Big Grip Garden Knife
Now, for something a little bit different. Based on the basic design of the Japanese knife Fiskars has come up with something slightly creative. Available at Home Depot, and via Amazon.
It still has the concave blade with a serrated edge on one side and a bevelled edge on the other, but it tapers down with two points at the end instead of a single tip.
The two-pronged tip works extremely well for weeding in soft soil.
I would use this tool mostly for light-duty container or indoor gardening, as the cast aluminum blade is not especially sharp, and it suffers from no tang.
The blade is welded onto the large, soft-molded grip, which gives it a weak point if youre doing heavy duty work.
The blade is 7 inches long with a 5 1/2-inch comfortable handle with an orange end, which makes it easy to locate. It doesnt come with a sheath and Ive not managed to find one that fits, so youll need to keep this in your gardening bag. This model is made in China.
See more information and check prices at Home Depot or via Amazon now.
Features
- 5.5-inch padded handle with a hole for hanging
- 7-inch tapered, concave blade with serrated and straight edge
- 9.6 ounces
- Two-pronged weeding tip at the end
- Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Lightweight, easy to use
- Coated blade is rust-resistant
- Ideal for container or indoor gardening
- Comfortable grip wont tire your hands
- Good value for the price
Cons
- The blade is welded to the handle, so can break off in heavy compacted soil
- Blades not especially sharp
- No sheath available
If youre looking for something budget-friendly, lightweight, and comfortable for all those transplanting, weeding, and light digging duties, the Fiskars fits the bill. Just dont expect it to be as robust or sharp as the other products weve discussed.
Ideal for patio gardening, it hangs on the wall for storage and does a solid job of maintaining your pots and hanging baskets.
Head over to Home Depot to check prices and customer reviews. The Fiskars Big Grip is also available via Amazon.
The Multifaceted Hori Hori
The multi-purpose Japanese hori hori knife features a large, concave blade with one straight, sharp edge and one serrated edge, and it usually has a ruler etched on the blade.
The two cutting edges are superb for sod cutting, edging, dividing perennials, slashing, pruning, harvesting, and sawing. This tool is even useful as a small hand axe.
The blade is usually 7-8 inches long, small enough to carry around for a number of garden chores.
Whats In a Name?
Originally designed as a bonsai gardening tool, the name hori hori comes from the Japanese verb (horu) which means dig, and (hori) which is a derivative.
When written in Japanese, is translated as dig-dig the products themselves are called (Hori Hori Naifu), using the English word knife.
For readers in New Zealand, these knives are sold at Mitre 10 and Bunnings as Japanese DigiDigi, for obvious reasons.
Buying Considerations
When shopping around for your Japanese hori hori knife, there are a few things to keep in mind when comparing different models.
Tang
The tang is the part of the knife that extends from the heel of the blade into the handle, and is referred to as either full or partial.
A full tang is formed in one continuous piece with the blade, and extends all the way to the butt of the handle. A partial tang extends only partway into the handle.
For heavy-duty use, a full tang provides maximum strength for prying and leveraging duties.
A simple way to determine if a knife has a full tang is to look for metal sandwiched between the handle sections all the way to the handle butt.
Ergonomic Comfort
One of the most important aspects of a tool is comfortable usability.
You may use a gardening knife frequently, for everything from light to heavy duties. So, you need to be sure it can provide long-lasting, comfortable, fatigue-free use.
For easy maneuverability, you need a well-balanced blade and handle construction to minimize stress on the palm, wrist, and forearm.
Whether its made from wood or plastic, the handle design should provide a solid, secure grip.
Many prefer wood for its natural feel and easy grasp.
Others prefer a more ergonomic handle for an especially secure grip with less likelihood of palm and finger stress.
Stain and Corrosion Resistance
As with any tool, resistance to stains and corrosion are important factors for a garden knife.
Stainless steel offers the best stain and corrosion protection.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean your knife after every use to keep it in top condition.
Remove sticky sap and resin with a drop of mineral spirits. Before storing, wipe blades with an oily rag.
Remove dirt from handles as needed. Two or three times a year, give wooden ones a rub with linseed oil, to keep them supple and prevent them from cracking.
Gardening can be tough on blades, so sharpen the bevelled edge regularly with a whetstone, or in the case of the Truly Garden model, with the sharpening tool provided.
To sharpen the serrated edge, you might want to consider a sharpening tool such as this one available from Speedy Sharp via Amazon. It sharpens all and any blades, and is a compact, durable addition to your garden shed.
A Double-Edged Sword
Choosing the right garden knife is easy when you know what to look for, and now youre ready to choose one thats comfortable, durable, and ideal for your purposes.
The Japanese hori hori knife is so versatile, you might decide that its the only gardening tool you need, especially if you have a small garden or grow mostly in containers.
Will it be the sleek design of the Nisaku with the ergonomic handle that tempts you? Or do you prefer the dagger-esque contours of the Sensei?
Just remember to keep it clean and well-sharpened for years of reliable service in the garden.
Have you got some garden knife pointers to share? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
And if you are looking to expand your garden tool collection, why not check out these guides next:
- Oh, Felco-F2, and All the Things You Can Do
- Get a Hand in the Garden: the Best Hand Cultivators
- The Mantis Little Wonder Tiller
Ask the Experts, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. See our TOS for more details. Originally published on February 8, 2020. Last updated: February 7, 2020 at 16:41 pm. Significantly revised and edited from an original article by Lorna Kring, with additional editing by Allison Sidhu. Product Photos via Fiskars, Home Depot, Nisaku, Sensei Tools, and Truly Garden. Uncredited photos: Shutterstock.
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