Katz NJ-35/PH-35 handle scales
Katz Kagemusha NJ-35/Phantom PH-35 handle scales
In 1991, Keith Derkatz founded Katz Knives in Canada, driven by his lifelong passion for hunting and frustration with subpar blade designs. The brand quickly gained recognition for premium hunting knives and tactical folders made in Japan with proprietary steels like XT-80
The Kagemusha NJ-35 (often called "Secret Ninja") debuted in the mid-1990s as part of Katz's innovative folding series, featuring a 3.5-inch Ninja-point blade (hybrid drop-tanto) in XT-80 stainless steel for razor sharpness, strength, and corrosion resistance. Weighing ~4 oz with 8-inch overall length, it includes a reliable liner lock, textured Kraton or exotic wood handles (cherrywood, walnut variants), and deep-carry clip—ideal for EDC knives, tactical folders, and field use
The Phantom PH-35 emerged as a tactical sibling (late 1990s–early 2000s), sharing the 3.5-inch blade profile but with stippled Kraton handles for enhanced grip in wet conditions and a more aggressive, blacked-out aesthetic suited for survival knives and discreet carry
Both models earned praise for smooth action, secure lockup, and hunter-inspired versatility—solidifying Katz's reputation for high-quality, Japanese-crafted folding knives blending tradition and performance at accessible prices (~$100–$200 MSRP)
The scales are compatible with various modifications of the NJ-35/PH-35 model:
- Katz Kagemusha NJ-35
- Katz Phantom PH-35