Honmoro-ha Chouna Japanese Carpenter Adze - 97mm
Brand name: Unknown
Smith name: Although the specific blacksmith is unknown, this piece definitely originates from the Kansai region.
Steel: Tamahagane
Jigane: Watetsu
Blade length: 97mm
Blade width: 134mm
Shape: Ryo-ha(両刃) type; Honmoro-ha(本モロ刃) Type;
Manufacture Era: Late 19th century (Meiji period)
Total Weight: 1258g
Accessories: -
Size of the "Yama no Takasa"; "Kogomi"; "Obake" : 255mm; 25mm; 570mm 「To understand the specific meaning of these three sizes, please refer to my blogー "The ideal Adze handle chosen by professional carpenters"」
Additional Information: It has seen very little use, and the blade is in good condition. I have performed a basic sharpening up to #1000 grit. This piece was sourced directly from the descendant of a carpenter in the Kansai region.
When I acquired this piece, I noticed its shape was different from the chouna commonly seen today. I consulted Mr. Tsuchida about this unique type. He explained that this is a more traditional design, which is heavier than modern versions. Notably, the blade's tip is positioned closer to—or exactly on—the center line of the handle eye. Compared to modern versions, this traditional chouna features a longer and heavier blade with a unique geometry. This design excels at removing larger volumes of wood, making it a highly efficient tool specialized for roughing work.
Additionally, Mr. Tsuchida mentioned that this blade is exceptionally old and likely forged from Watetsu and Tamahagane. Just as he predicted, I was able to confirm this during the sharpening process a few days later. Please refer to this post for details: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUPuG1lifVi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Viewed from the side, the handle has a perfect profile, which is likely the main reason the original owner selected it. However, from the front view, the alignment might affect precision. I recommend trying the original handle first, but please feel free to replace it (re-handle) if it doesn't suit your needs.
Regarding the specific terminology for this blade type, there are two distinct names derived from different authoritative sources. The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum refers to it as 'Ryoha':
“ 釿の刃は主に両刃で、刃の側面がヒツの中心線に対してほぼ左右対称の形をしている両面のものと、一方に片寄っている片面のものとがあります。”
while Mr. Tsuchida describes it as 'Honmoroha' in his article.
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