Rosewood Shirasaya Real Japanese Katana Sword Samurai

GENERAL DATA

• OVERALL LENGTH: 103 cm / 40.6 inch

• BLADE LENGTH: 70 cm / 27.6 inch

• TSUKA LENGTH: 26 cm / 10.24 inch

• BLADE WIDTH: 3.2 cm / 1.26 inch

• BLADE THICKNESS: 0.7 cm / 0.28 inch

• BLADE HRC: 58

KATANA SWORD BLADE CRAFT;

PACKAGE

A shirasaya is a simple, unadorned wooden traditional Japanese sword consisting of a saya (scabbard) and tsuka (hilt). Traditionally crafted from nurizaya wood, this storage solution was used when a blade wasn’t expected to be in use for a while and needed proper preservation. Externally featureless except for the necessary mekugi-ana to secure the nakago (tang), some shirasaya also featured sayagaki (blade information).

The specialized storage is crucial because prolonged koshirae mounting could harm the blade due to factors like lacquered wood retaining moisture and causing corrosion. Shirasaya mountings are not intended for combat, as they lack a tsuba (guard) and proper handle wrappings, making them unsuitable for battlefield use. However, there are similar “hidden” mountings like the shikomizue. Today, many historical blades and modern reproductions are sold in this format. While most are decorative replicas, a few possess functional blades.

CLAY HARDENING

Before quenching, a specialized clay mixture is applied to the blade to harden the edge and achieve varying hardness levels. This clay mixture, a closely guarded secret of sword-making masters, could include ingredients like feathers, powdered bones, and grass. When applied to the blade’s edge and then quenched, a chemical reaction between the hot steel and the clay occurs. The sudden temperature drop feeds carbon into the blade, creating an extremely tough edge. Blades treated with clay hardening can only be quenched in water, which increases the defect rate.

Another clay tempering technique involves applying clay along the blade while leaving the edge exposed. When quenched in water, the uncovered edge cools rapidly while the rest of the blade cools slowly. This differential temperature change results in different hardness levels, making the edge tough enough for cutting while the back of the blade remains flexible enough to absorb impact. This quenching process often leaves a beautiful wavy tempered line on the blade, known as “hamon” in Japanese sword terminology.

FOLDED STEEL

The katana’s legendary strength and beauty stem from its intricate forging process, where carbon steel is folded 15 times to create 32,768 layers. These numerous layers result in unique and mystical hada patterns that showcase the craftsman’s mastery and the traditional metallurgy knowledge passed down through generations. Only the most skilled bladesmiths (Toushyo) and polishers (Togi-shi) can bring out the Shinsakuto live blade’s true elegance and life.

During forging, impurities and slags are burned off, and the steel is folded to achieve uncompromised strength and a sharp cutting edge. The final carbon content stands at 1%, with an impressive hardness of HRC 55° on the Rockwell Scale. This high-quality blade can effortlessly cut through tatami straw mats or bamboo, making it perfect for Tameshigiri or Batto-do practice.

USAGE IN MARTIAL ARTS

Historically, the Real Katana sword was wielded by Japanese samurai swords on battlefields and in various martial arts practices. Today, modern martial artists continue to use different types of katana for training. Martial arts that incorporate katana training include iaijutsu, battōjutsu, iaidō, kenjutsu, kendō, ninjutsu, and Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū.

STORAGE AND MAINTENANCE

To avoid irreparable damage, a katana must be properly stored and maintained. The blade should be placed horizontally in its sheath, with the curve down and edge facing upward, to maintain its sharpness. It’s essential to keep the blade well-oiled, powdered, and polished, as natural moisture from the user’s hands can cause rapid rusting if not cleaned off. The traditional oil used is chōji oil, composed of 99% mineral oil and 1% clove oil for fragrance.

For long-term storage, it’s crucial to frequently inspect and air out the katana to prevent rust or mold formation, as mold can feed off the salts in the oil used for polishing. By following these steps, you can ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your katana.

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Engraving

We can engrave English words, Chinese Characters on the blade for free.