Choosing your Hori Hori

Deriving its name from the Japanese word ‘hori’, meaning ‘to dig’, the Hori Hori trowel was developed over many centuries as a tool to assist gardeners, farmers, and foragers alike. Now, gaining considerable popularity outside of its native Japan, the Hori Hori has quickly established itself as one of the must-have tools for gardening enthusiasts the world over.

So, whether you’re looking to join the legions of fans, or wanting to upgrade your entry level tool, this quick guide offers a brief overview of our range of Hori Horis, all sourced from Japanese tool specialists, Niwaki.

Famed for its incredible diversity of function, Niwaki’s original Hori Hori is a formidable garden tool that can be used as both a trowel and a weeder. Equipped with a hand-forged carbon steel blade, this hardwearing tool will prove an indispensable garden asset, whether you’re planting or cutting.

Taking things to the next level, the Hori Hori Pro provides improved durability with its SK-5 carbon steel blade. Widely used for chisels, this carbon-steel is famed for its hardness and its edge retention. Suited to the same functions as the original Hori Hori, the Pro ultimately requires less maintenance, staying much sharper for much longer.

Adding a serrated edge to the much-loved original, the S-Type Hori Hori is engineered to tackle a range of tougher tasks, particularly when it comes to dealing with persistent roots and branches. Boasting the same chunky beech handle as the Pro and the original, the S-Type is sure to bring an extra dimension to your garden game.

Don’t let its diminutive size deceive you, the Mini S-Type Hori Hori is just as sharp and effective as its larger siblings. Fulfilling the same functions, just with a smaller scale, the Mini S-Type is especially useful when it comes to rooting around in pots, making it a great addition to just about any greenhouse.

Truly one for the connoisseurs, the Forged Hori Hori is handcrafted by Kondo blacksmiths and features a laminated, hand-forged carbon-steel blade fitted to an ergonomic white oak handle. Highly adaptable, the blade is sharpened down one side, and around the tip, helping you slice effortlessly through stubborn roots and soft soil.

*Please make yourself aware of Offensive Weapons Laws before transporting or carrying any of these tools in public. Under section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953, it is an offence to have a weapon in a public place unless you have lawful authority or a reasonable excuse. This might include carrying tools for work or transporting gardening equipment. It is advised that you keep these tools concealed, sheathed, and out of sight in public spaces, and in a gardening bag or toolbox rather than on your belt.