Condition Description

Please check the photos and description for details. This is a used antique maebiki nokogiri (Japanese pit saw). The handle was heavily coated in soot from decades of storage above a rural hearth; the handle material was confirmed as paulownia (kiri) by a former professional woodcutter. The blade shows age-related patina, and a repaired section on the reverse side bears what appears to be a craftsman's signature. A maker's engraved signature is also present on the blade. Cleaning and maintenance before use are recommended. Condition details are best assessed from the provided photos.


Description

Japanese Antique Maebiki Nokogiri (Pit Saw) — Traditional Woodworker's Tool

A and historically significant maebiki nokogiri, a large Japanese rip saw traditionally used by kobiki (pit sawyers) to cut logs into planks. This piece is from the same craftsman's collection as item 7-017 and was stored for several decades above a rural hearth, giving the handle a deep soot-blackened patina.

Key Specifications

  • Overall Length: 85 cm
  • Height: 36.5 cm
  • Blade Length: 53.5 cm
  • Blade Thickness: 1.2 mm
  • Weight: 3 kg

Notable Features

  • Handle material confirmed as paulownia (kiri) by a former professional kobiki woodcutter — the heavy soot coating initially made identification impossible
  • The blade bears an engraved maker's signature, suggesting it was made by a named toolmaker of the era
  • The reverse side shows a repaired section with what appears to be an additional craftsman's signature or mark
  • Believed to have been forged in the traditional manner — iron worked and hammered repeatedly into shape, as modern steel sheet was not yet available at the time of manufacture

Condition

This is a used antique tool. Age-related soiling, soot, patina, and wear are present throughout. The blade and handle show signs consistent with long-term storage. Cleaning and maintenance before use are strongly recommended. Please refer to the provided photos for full condition details.

About Maebiki Nokogiri

The maebiki nokogiri is a large two-person rip saw used in traditional Japanese timber framing and lumber production. These saws were essential tools of the kobiki trade and are increasingly difficult to find in original condition. This example represents a piece of Japanese craft heritage.

Sold as-is. Please assess condition from the photos before purchasing.


Policy

  • Shipping

    We ship within 10 business days (excluding weekends and Japanese national holidays) after payment
    (Japan Post / FEDEX / DHL / UPS)
    Carrier will be selected based on destination and package conditions. Buyers cannot choose the carrier.

    ★ Economy Shipping: 11–23 business days to the U.S. / 13–23 days to other countries
    ★ Standard Shipping: 5–10 business days to the U.S. / 11–20 days to other countries
    ★ Expedited Shipping: 3–5 business days to the U.S. / 8–15 days to other countries

    Delivery times are estimates. Delays may occur due to customs or local postal conditions.
    If delayed, please contact your local post office or carrier with the tracking number.

  • Important Notice Regarding International Buyers

    ★For buyers in the United States
    This item will be shipped with DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) service.
    Import duties, tariffs, and customs clearance fees are already included in the total amount you pay on eBay.
    You will not need to pay any additional charges upon delivery.
    Please purchase with confidence.
    Kindly note: Due to recent changes in U.S. import policies, stricter customs inspections and additional documentation requirements may still occur in some cases. While rare, some shipments may experience slight delays depending on the product and its origin.

    ★For international buyers
    Please note that VAT, import taxes, and customs duties may apply depending on your country’s regulations.
    These are not included in the item price or shipping cost and are the buyer’s responsibility.

    ★Remote Area Surcharge
    Some delivery addresses may be subject to an additional remote area surcharge depending on the shipping carrier’s policies.
    If this applies, we will contact you in advance to confirm the extra payment before shipping.

    We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
    If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us anytime.