Dear Nosamk:
Thanks for posting the photo and starting the buzz. I really appreciate your support.
The Yojimbo concept has been in the works for quite a while. In fact, the design predates my Ronin, which is also available in custom form from Mike Snody and will soon be available as a production model from Spyderco. For the record, I have formally contracted with Spyderco for the production of the Yojimbo (which they will probably release as the "Folding Ronin"), but progress has thus far been slow. After numerous requests from folks who want a Yojimbo (including me), I decided that getting custom models out there first would be a good way to go. Based on his awesome work on the original Ronins, Mike Snody was my first choice of maker.
The original design for the Yojimbo specified a 3-inch blade, but slightly longer blade lengths are also possible with the same handle profile and length. More details concerning the actual construction of the knife will follow when I've actually got the prototype in hand.
I want to express my sincere thanks to Mike Snody for his efforts to bring my designs to life in steel. He's truly a class act and one of the best makers in the business.
Thanks to all of you as well for your interest in the design.
Stay safe,
Michael Janich