Hiro Zipangu Spotted Urushi

Pre-Owned Hiro Zipangu Spotted Urushi Knife

Rare artistry meets cutting performance
There’s nothing ordinary about the Hiro Zipangu Spotted Urushi. This is a piece of Japanese functional art made to be a folding knife. Hand-forged by Hiro, a craftsman known for elevating traditional blades into near-mythic status, this pre-owned piece offers something truly rare: performance sharpened by age, paired with the soul of a collector’s item.

The Spotted Urushi handle is where this knife breaks ranks. Coated in genuine Japanese lacquer, it's not only visually arresting but also grippy without being abrasive. Urushi lacquer has protected Japanese tools and weapons for centuries—there’s heritage in every touch. And thanks to the hand-applied spotted pattern, no two handles are ever alike.

Steel-wise, the Hiro Zipangu doesn’t flinch. Its VG 10 blade is wickedly sharp and holds its edge far longer than most production knives. Yet it’s not brittle. That’s because it’s laminated for durability, giving it a workhorse feel under an artist’s finish. You get smooth, decisive cuts and a weight balance that makes work satisfying rather than tedious.

Why the Hiro Zipangu stands out

• One-of-a-kind Urushi handle with natural lacquer and custom spotting

• Pre-owned with character, but maintained in outstanding condition

• Razor-sharp VG 10 retains edge beautifully

• Handmade in Japan by a master craftsman—each knife is unique

• Excellent weight distribution for effortless slicing and control

Invest in a legacy blade
This isn’t a knife you leave in a drawer. It’s something you reach for when the work matters—or when you just want to enjoy the craft behind the blade. The Hiro Zipangu Spotted Urushi knife doesn’t just slice—it speaks.