Bears beware www.japantimes.co.jp
YubiIf you are a bear who happens to read this page, you might want to stop now and try another link :o)
A type of dagger used by traditional hunters of the Tohoku region, who are known as matagi, is selling well amid a string of bear sightings and reports of bear-related damage across Japan.
Individually handcrafted by master blacksmith Noboru Nishine in Kita-Akita, Akita Prefecture, the popularity of the daggers, called nagasa, has been boosted by attention on the internet, which has led to yearly growth in sales. The dagger can be used as a kitchen knife or to cut branches, and is popular among those who enjoy outdoor activities.