A.G. Russell Knives

Nakamura Design

Seiichi Nakamura spent his life as an engineer and in retirement designs and produces small Japanese style folders and gentleman's folders. As far as I can determine, this is the first instance in which one of his designs has been manufactured by an American company. Just last year we offered a Nakamura folder from Kershaw, but that knife was produced by a small factory in Japan.

In March 2008, Benchmade's SHOKI ™ was awarded the IWA International Knife Award in the category of Special Design. IWA, held each year in Nürnberg, Germany is one of the world's leading exhibitions for hunting and sporting arms, outdoor articles and accessories. Award categories include: gourmet knives, multitools, outdoor knives, special knives, collector knives, special design and special innovation.

This is a milestone for Benchmade, as it marks the first collaborative efforts between the Benchmade Knife Company and custom knifemaker Seiichi Nakamura. The SHOKI also introduces a brand new locking mechanism called the NAK-LOK™.

The 2-7/8" hollow ground utility blade is S30V stainless at 58-60 Rc. The liners are bright blue anodized titanium, the bolsters are G10 with scales of stabilized winewood. All the hardware is nickel plated. Measures 3-5/8" closed and weighs 1.7 oz. Includes leather pouch with clip. Made in the U. S. A. Suggested retail is $200.00.

Benchmade® Shoki