After a brief sabbatical in the vegetable fields of Kawachinagano, the glorious Niwaki Trowel is back - and it means business.

The hand forged 6" carbon steel head is slightly scooped, ideal for digging, weeding, scooping and burrowing, as well as snail flicking, apparently. The sharpened blade breaks through heavy soil, and the chunky oak handle gives the whole thing a lovely robust feel, with its rounded end perfect for prolonged use.

Hand forged by Kudo, a small family business in Sanjo up in the north of Japan.

Tip - The carbon steel head benefits from the occasional wipe down with an oily rag.