Japanese knifemaker Kansei Matsuno is a true master of his craft, and his designs undoubtedly possess a unique style. He has been designing and crafting knives since 1996, and just a year later, he was able to exhibit them for the first time at the Seki Outdoor Knife Show. The skillful combination of Japanese design elements with the features of modern pocket knives immediately captivated us. The typically slim profile and lightweight construction, along with the clean lines and classic Japanese blades, result in exceptionally elegant everyday knives.
How did you first come into contact with knives?
About fifty years ago, I watched the film "Tarzan" with my father. The main character faced off against the strongest animals in the jungle, and I was very impressed at the time. Especially, of course, by his imposing knife!
When did you make your first knife yourself?
That was about 25 years ago, it must have been 1996.
How long have you been working as a knifemaker?
That was 23 years ago now, just two years after I designed my first knife.
What profession have you learned or practiced in the past?
Before my career as a self-employed knifemaker, I worked in the textile industry and learned my first craft skills there.
Is there someone you would describe as your mentor?
The legendary custom knifemaker Koji Hara; his knives are true masterpieces. His designs are inspired by the aesthetics of traditional Japanese art and craftsmanship, which has always fascinated me. Koji is now known worldwide for his precise, detailed inlay work.
What is your greatest talent as a knifemaker?
I think I'm quite good at designing and making pocket knives ;)
Where do these ideas come from?
Many things inspire me, even in everyday life. Sometimes even the design of an elegant car .
What do you like most about your job?
What makes me happiest is the satisfied smile of the new and proud owners of my knives.
Where should you start if you want to make your first knife?
Once you know what kind of knife you want to make, you should buy one and take it apart. Then, recreate the individual parts as faithfully as possible to the original and try to reassemble the knife piece by piece. This will teach you a lot about how knives work and their mechanisms. Especially in the beginning, studying a model is always a good teacher!
What does a typical workday look like for you?
I get up at 6:30 a.m. and have breakfast first. Afterwards, I check my emails in my office and answer them. Around lunchtime, I have something to eat and rest briefly. Refreshed, I then begin working on knives or crafting individual components in my workshop. I end my busy day with dinner, followed by a bath. I prefer a structured daily routine.
Can I simply order a custom knife from you?
Yes, anyone can order a knife from me.
Can you give us some insights into your current projects?
I am currently working on a design for a new pocket knife, but I don't want to reveal too much yet.
Do you sometimes get fed up with knives?
Working as a knifemaker can be tiring and strenuous at times, so I sometimes need a longer break. But knives always fascinate me, of course.
What about your wife – does she share your passion for knives?
She likes my work, but other knives are less interesting to her.
Do you have time for other things besides your tightly scheduled workday?
Currently, I have developed a passion for smoking food.
What's the best way for you to switch off in your free time?
I enjoy surfing the internet, especially YouTube, which is a good source of mental distraction.
Are there any hobbies that have nothing to do with knives?
I love to cook, and I've also recently taken up smoking as a hobby. Food and enjoyment play a very important role in my life.
What are you absolutely unable to do?
I absolutely do not touch electrical wiring or defective electronic devices when there are problems. I prefer to leave that to a professional.
What would you even get up in the middle of the night for?
Nothing particularly exciting comes to mind right now that might interest the reader :o)
Is there anything else you'd like to say to our customers?
I am delighted by every customer who is satisfied with my knife. And I am very pleased that my designs inspire so many people all over the world.