Kamisori Henkotsu, Hureka, Kobayashi Kinsei, Ippon Renda

Similar to a traditional samurai sword, these Kamisori were hand-forged from 2 layers, the cutting part made of high-carbon steel and the supporting layer of a simpler one. The steel layer is brittle and hard, while the sheath provides the necessary flexibility and resistance to breakage.

Both layers are not rustproof, so always keep your razor dry after shaving and protect it with a thin layer of oil or non-toxic lubricant (e.g. Balistol). Why does this blade rust? Stainless blades are made of an alloy that will prevent corrosion spots from forming, but will also be less hard. High-carbon steel, like the cutting layer of this Kamisori, provides much greater hardness and will maintain a smooth shave much longer before you need to sharpen it again!

Kamisori are high-quality Japanese razor blades made by masters of their craft. These kamisori are highly regarded in the traditional Japanese shaving community for the following reasons:

What is a camisoles?

• Kamisori is a traditional Japanese razor blade that differs from Western razors. straight razor in that they often have an asymmetrical blade slope (one side is straight, the other is curved).
• Used for shaving without replaceable blades, it is a solid steel tool that requires sharpening and maintenance.

Kamisori's unique features:

1. Handmade – each blade is made by hand by a master using traditional blacksmithing techniques.
2. High quality steel – often used Shirogami (White Paper Steel) or Aogami (Blue Paper Steel) steel that retains its sharpness perfectly.
3. Asymmetrical design – typical of traditional camisoles, allows for extremely precise shaving.
4. Aesthetics – often has artistically engraved details (e.g. kanji characters), Japanese-style elegance.
5. Reputation – Japanese craftsmen are among the most famous manufacturers of vintage shaving tools.

Henkotsu kamisori is another highly regarded name in the world of traditional Japanese razor blades. It vintage (antique) kamisori blades, mostly made in the early 20th century or during the war (as well as the post-war period), and now have become coveted objects among collectors and shaving enthusiasts.

What is Henkotsu?

• "Henkotsu" (dead bone) can literally mean "stubborn" or "eccentric," but in the shaving world it is maker's (or craftsman's) mark, which was engraved on the blade of the kamisori.
• These razors were manufactured Showa period (c. 1926–1989), and some even earlier – Taishō (1912–1926) or even Meiji (1868–1912) period.
• Most of them were produced In Osaka or Tokyo, in famous knife-making districts.

What makes Henkotsu kamisori so special?

1. Authentic and vintage – these are historical shaving tools, often characterized by wabi sabi aesthetics (simplicity, antiquity, non-ideal form).
2. High quality steel – old kamisori were forged from traditional Japanese tamahagane or hard carbon steel.
3. Unique shape – a classic, minimalist camisori design, often without handles, with subtle kanji embossing.
4. Good reputation among collectors – The Henkotsu name is often compared to other famous vintage manufacturers such as Iwasaki or Tanifuji.
5. Perfectly sharpened – Properly maintained Henkotsu knives maintain a very sharp, smooth cut.