Dealer Spotlight:Nihonsan Tools & Hardware
Owner: Joe Samalin
Location: Gurgaon, Brooklyn, NY
Website: Nihonsan Tools & Hardware
About Nihonsan Tools
Opened in July 2024 in Brooklyn, New York, Nihonsan Tools & Hardware is a Kakuri tool dealer for the northeastern United States. Owner Joe Samalin started the business because he felt there wasn't a dedicated store where people could see and try Japanese tools before buying them in the U.S. outside of California.
He combined his passions for woodworking and for connecting with people to create more than just a retail store. Beyond selling tools, Nihonsan offers opportunities for everyone, from beginners to pros, to experience Japanese woodworking through classes, workshops, demonstrations, and even free monthly meetups.
Why Kakuri?
He noted that while high-end tools made by master craftsmen can feel intimidating to some, especially beginners. Kakuri tools are affordable yet offer quality that truly satisfies, making them truly approachable. Kakuri tools are also user-friendly and very close to ready to use right out of the box. This allows retailers like Nihonsan to serve a broad range of customers and carry a diverse product lineup.
The support from the Kakuri team was also a key factor. Joe told us that the team was very supportive from the start—explaining how tools work, suggesting products, and responding quickly to his questions. He added:
"The quality, price, and accessibility for beginners that Kakuri offers is unique. There's nothing else like it."
"Thanks to Kakuri's unique manufacturing and design system, we can source their products at wholesale prices. This lets us sell them affordably while still maintaining a profit. For a new business like mine, this has been essential. Kakuri has been the foundation and backbone of Nihonsan's success so far."
My First Kakuri Tool
Joe's journey with Kakuri's woodworking tools began several years ago when a friend brought back a 42mm Kakuri plane as a souvenir gift from a trip to Japan. That plane became one of his favorite tools. When he decided to open Nihonsan, he knew he absolutely had to carry Kakuri products.
The Kakuri Impression
In the United States, Japanese woodworking is often seen as difficult and intimidating. But Kakuri breaks down that barrier by offering tools that are approachable and practical. As a result, Kakuri gives many people the confidence to take their first step into the world of woodworking.
A Comment from Kakuri
Tetsuya Inaoka
Our relationship with Nihonsan Tools began when they first reached out to us. At the time, Joe had not yet established his company, so it took some time before we officially started working together. Since then, we have built an excellent relationship.
Joe is a skilled woodworker himself and has a deep knowledge of Japanese tools. We are very grateful for the valuable feedback he has provided us over the years.
Nihonsan Tools does more than just sell products; they are dedicated to growing the Japanese woodworking community through their workshops. We are honored to be working with such a passionate company.
We look forward to collaborating with them in the future, not only through product sales but also in areas like content creation.
Customer Reactions
Customer feedback on Kakuri products has been consistently positive. Beginners are thrilled to find that Japanese tools are much more accessible than they imagined, while professional woodworkers are often surprised, asking, "How can you get this quality at this price?"
Popular products include the Ryoba saws, 48mm planes, and 12mm yellow steel chisels. At events, items like Clamps and the Eco Body Plane sell out immediately. We've even had customers come back right after a purchase to tell us, "It started taking shavings right away—it’s amazing!"
Kakuri products are especially great for beginners and intermediate woodworkers. Our best-selling chisel is the 12mm yellow steel model because it's perfect for softwoods and easy to sharpen, making it ideal for newcomers. As customers improve and start working with harder woods, they can buy other sizes individually to build up their own custom tool set. Kakuri is truly a brand that can grow with you.
The Future of Kakuri and Nihonsan Tools
Joe believes a major opportunity for Kakuri lies in providing more information in English.
"High-quality English content like how-to videos, joinery guides, and interviews with modern craftspeople would be a powerful way to attract woodworking enthusiasts from all over the world."
"Kakuri has already written a guide for beginners, and we are excited to continue working together on new content. We look forward to developing signs, beginner kits, and other new collaborations with them."
A Message from Nihonsan Tools
Joe Samalin
Joe shared a final message for retailers and woodworkers:
"At Nihonsan Tools, we want to help as many people as possible experience Japanese woodworking tools. "
To other retailers: The better you know a company and its products, the better you can serve your customers. Understanding details like how to use a marking gauge, the differences between steel types, and how to set up chisels and planes will make a big difference. Don't hesitate to ask Kakuri questions. They are knowledgeable and always happy to help. Kakuri tools are high-quality, approachable, and affordable, so everyone from beginners to professionals can use them with confidence.
To individual woodworkers:
I encourage you to give Kakuri tools a try. They are the perfect tools to get you started and will open the door to the deep and rewarding world of Japanese woodworking.
Learn, enjoy, and grow through your tools—we wholeheartedly recommend Kakuri products as the gateway to that journey.
Website: Nihonsan Tools & Hardware