Editorial ReferenceBuying
Buying
Guides
Definitive editorial guides — from your first chisel purchase to advanced metallurgy and reading maker's stamps. Research before you spend.
01
Buyers Guide
→02Your First Japanese Chisel: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before spending $80–$400 on your first set.
12 minBeginner
Steel Guide
→03Aogami vs Shirogami: An Honest Comparison
Blue Paper or White Paper — which steel is right for you, and why the answer isn't obvious.
10 minIntermediate
Buyers Guide
→04Choosing Your First Japanese Plane Blade
A kanna is not a purchase — it's a long-term commitment. Choose wisely.
14 minIntermediate
Sharpening
→05Building Your Sharpening System
The stones you choose matter as much as the tools. A systematic approach to selecting your waterstone progression.
11 minBeginner
Blacksmith Guide
→06The Complete Tasai Buying Guide
One of the world's most coveted chisel makers, demystified.
9 minAdvanced
Reference
→Reading Japanese Tool Stamps: A Field Guide to Mei
The kanji marks on a Japanese blade tell its entire story — if you know how to read them.
13 minIntermediate