Tool Guides

Features and History of the Genno The Genno is a time-honored Japanese hammer, primarily used by carpenters in woodworking and construction. Its practical design and versatility have made it an essential tool in these trades for centuries. The origins of the name Genno are steeped in legend. One popular tale tells of Genno Osho, a monk who wielded a large hammer to smash an evil spirit trapped inside a rock, bringing peace to the surrounding area. Today, the Genno is primarily used for striking nails and chisels. Different versions of this hammer cater to various tasks, such as the Ryoguchi Genno (double-faced hammer)...

What is a Flush Cut Saw? The Flush Cut Saw is a specialized saw designed to neatly finish the surface and joints of wood. It is primarily used for cutting dowels and wooden pegs, and its teeth have no set, making it less likely to damage the surface. Due to these characteristics, it is an ideal tool for precise work, such as crafting and furniture making. In Japanese, it is also referred to as a "Dabo Kiri Nokogiri" (dowel cutting saw) or "Asari-nashi Nokogiri" (saw without set). Features and Benefits of the Flush Cut Saw Saw Blade Without Set Teeth...

Explore the craftsmanship of Japanese chisels with this guide focused on the "Bench Chisel." Whether you're a beginner or upgrading your tools, we'll cover essential techniques like marking wood and selecting the right chisel. You'll also learn to create clean, precise holes with ease and discover high-quality tools from Kakuri to elevate your woodworking projects. Getting to Know the Chisel: Types & Uses The Bench Chisel, a type of striking chisel, is one of the most versatile tools in Japanese woodworking. This striking chisel is designed to be used with a hammer and comes with a metal hoop (called a...

Saws vary depending on the material you want to cut and the purpose. In this article, we explore each saw type's unique features and uses to ensure you get the most out of your woodworking projects.   1: Ryoba saw Features       Usage:Cutting wood, hardwood Purpose:Carpentry The ryoba saw has both 'Rip cut' and 'Cross cut' blades. Since it has both types of blades, it can efficiently process wood.   2: Dozuki Saw Features Usage: Cutting wood, thin boardsPurpose: Precision work, kumiko-work, miniature furniture, etc. The dozuki saw has a thin blade with a fine pitch. It is excellent for precision...

There are some differences between Japanese and Western chisels in how the blade is made and designed.
These differences and the characteristics of Japanese chisels are introduced below.