Mokume Gane Knucklebone

AO2's Knucklebone is the original hardbody knuckle roller, and as the community of players and collectors has grown, so has the demand for exotic materials. What better way to show off the ergonomic curves of this modern classic design than with the folded grains of mokume gane.

This unique material is made from fusing together layers of metals, and working the billet into a patterned material that almost resembles wood grain. When machined to our specifications, the grains of the material become exposed in a way that accentuates the appearance of the curves, creating a beautiful topographic relief.

The mokume gane Knucklebones are available either polished or etched. The polished version ships very clean/ unoxidized, and as such, has almost no patina and very little contrast between the layers of material. As the material ages, it will begin to patina, with the darker copper layers becoming particularly pronounced. The etched version has been bathed in a corrosive solution, exposing the raw materials underneath. Since the different metals are not equally corroded, the etched version shows more contrast between the layers.

This elegant Knucklebone may not be for everyone due to its weight and price point, but for those who know what they're getting into, you're bound to cherish this piece, and to appreciate it even more as the metals begin to patina and the grains pop. The weight of the mokume gane kbones is similar to the existing brass model, around 86g per piece, making it great for momentum based play, and for exercising the fingers. 

General Information

AO2’s Knucklebone is a simple skill toy that is manipulated with the fingers of one or both hands to perform tricks and patterns, or simply to pass the time. It is very discrete (unless dropped) and can be played in very restricted spaces, and in contexts where other showier skill toys may not be appropriate. There are a handful of tutorials already available online at the AO2 YouTube channel, and we’ll be publishing more in the coming weeks to help get folks started. 

The mokume gane version is heavy, and carries a fair bit of momentum. The weight gives it a substantial feel, and the material is somewhat grippy, particularly if the hands are moist. The weight and grippiness are variables that affect play, and each material seems to be suited to different kinds of tricks. 

The weight and hard material mean it will make a loud noise when it is dropped on hard surfaces, and has the potential to break things in its path. Be careful with it. The material is relatively soft, and will still show scratches and dings on the drop portions.. It falls with weight, so it hits things hard. 

Note from the designer: I developed the original knucklebone circa 1989 when I was a kid in school. The crude original version was made from some kind of polymer clay (see photo). The new version is better suited to bigger hands, and has been designed for smoother flow and better trick potential.  

Warnings: Metal versions are heavy and solid--can break things or hurt things if dropped. It is recommended that you play over carpet, couch, or the like, or outside. Some versions look almost tasty, so keep them away from young kids, and don't let anyone try to ingest them.