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I have been doing some research and I didn't realize there are these esoteric companies, in Japan, that make the highest quality clubs. I didn't realize their forging are the world's finest and that Tiger's Nike blades are actually made here.

Anybody else hear of this?

Yes, some of the top forgings in the world are from Japan. Miura, probably the top forging company in the world is there and Taylormade has alot of clubs forged by them. Another great forging company out of Japan is Endzo (i think it is endzo) which is probably #2 in the world of forgings.
Tourstage is probably the top brand in Japan and has the highest quality of clubs, some of the sweetest looking irons which are i beleive, forged by Miura. Tourstage is Owned by Bridgestone whioch also owns Precept.
Japan is probably the hot spot for proto clubs and exotic clubs (or import, whatever you like to call them)
I have seen pictures of the Callaway X-18 model which are i beleive out in Japan. It usually goes to Japan first and then things come over here, very big hot spot for equipment.
They have clubs over there that will not even see the light of day in North America. If you or a friend goes to Japan, make sure to check pout the clubs, you will not be dissapointed. My brother went to Japan on an exchange program and said they have some sweet clubs over there. I have read somewhere that lots of people judge other people by the kind of golf clubs they have.
There was a thread on HONMA a few days ago, which are probably the most expensive brand of clubs, and made especially for very wealthy people over there.

wow, great info. i would've never even guessed it. Seems funny how the Japanese are so enamored with golf equipment, BUT when they actually are forging it WITH the greatest skill took me by surprise.