Katana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full tang katana?
A full tang katana means the blade steel continues through the handle instead of stopping near the guard. This matters because the handle and blade are part of one continuous structure, which gives the sword better stability and durability than a partial tang or decorative-only construction. For collectors, full tang construction is also a useful sign that the sword was made with more serious build quality in mind. All TrueKatana swords are full tang, but buyers should still read each product page for steel type, blade length, sharpness, fittings, and intended use.
Are katanas legal in the US?
In general, owning a katana at home is legal in many parts of the United States, but laws can vary by state, city, age, transportation method, and public carry rules. Ownership is not the same as carrying a sword in public. California, New York, Texas, Florida, and other states may treat possession, open carry, concealed carry, and restricted locations differently. Before buying or transporting a katana, check your local laws and avoid carrying a metal sword in public unless you clearly understand the rules. TrueKatana products are best treated as collectibles or display items unless a product page says otherwise.
What is the difference between katana and samurai sword?
A katana is one specific type of Japanese sword. It usually has a curved, single-edged blade, a long grip for two-handed use, and a guard called a tsuba. “Samurai sword” is a broader phrase people use for swords associated with samurai culture. That can include katana, wakizashi, tanto, tachi, and other Japanese blade styles. In online shopping, many people use “katana” and “samurai sword” almost the same way, but they are not exactly identical. If you are buying one, focus less on the label and more on the details: blade type, steel, length, tang construction, edge condition, and intended use.
How to display a katana?
The safest and cleanest way to display a katana is with a proper sword stand, wall rack, or display case. Keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, children, pets, and high-traffic areas where it could be knocked down. Many collectors display the katana in its saya, especially if the blade is sharp or carbon steel. If you display the blade unsheathed, make sure the room is dry and the blade is lightly oiled. For a traditional look, place the sword horizontally on a stand with the handle to the left or right depending on your display preference. The most important thing is stability and safe handling.
What are katanas made of?
Modern katana swords can be made from several types of steel. Common options include 1045 carbon steel, 1060 carbon steel, 1095 carbon steel, T10 tool steel, folded steel, Damascus-style steel, and sometimes tamahagane for higher-end traditional-style pieces. The fittings may include iron, brass, copper, alloy, wood, rayskin, cotton wrap, leather wrap, and a lacquered wooden saya. The best material depends on what you want from the sword. A display buyer may care more about polish and design, while a collector may look more closely at steel, heat treatment, hamon, and full tang construction. All TrueKatana swords are full tang, which is an important construction detail for buyers to know.
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Customer Reviews
This is a beautiful piece. Came in packed well and timely. Exactly what I was expecting and love the blue coloring in the blade.
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade and White Saya - Dragon Tsuba Full Tang Collectible Sword
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Blade is high quality, and handle is nicely incorporated with the scabbard. The hand guard is impressively detailed as well.
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade and White Saya - Dragon Tsuba Full Tang Collectible Sword
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My fiance loved it! Great quality and beautiful craftsmanship.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Blue Blade and White Piano Lacquer Saya - Gold Dragon Tsuba
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Sword was a gift and she loves it. It arrived on time with no issues. Will definitely buy from again!
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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This was my first purchase with True Katana so I went with one of the lesser expensive swords. Upon receiving the sword, I found it to be of good quality for the money. That being said I did have an issue with removing the sword from the scabbard. The first time took some finesse and patience as the sword did not want to budge. I eventually was able to free it and worked the sword back and forth until it smoothed out. All in all a fine sword for the money. I will be moving up in price range with my soon to be next purchase with this company.
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Teal Blade and Dragon Tsuba in Blue Saya - Full Tang Collectible Sword
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If I could leave a 4 and a half star response, I would. The website may seem shaky but these blades I've adopted this month are beautiful. The website has outdated coupons but I was offered a discount on a blade I had in my cart for less than 2 days as well as a coupon for my last feedback review. I'd buy again one day.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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It looks very nice, however I think the color is more gold than orange
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Very well packaged, arrived quickly, and looks amazing. I had my doubts because of the coloring, but it looks so much better in person. I like it and the bday boy i bought it for, my bro, thinks it's amazing.
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Teal Blade and Dragon Tsuba in Blue Saya - Full Tang Collectible Sword
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Another one for the collection. Pretty cool will be buying more
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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I ordered a mid range priced katana just to see the quality. I just wanted to personally write the review. This katana is beautiful the inlays and the detail exceeded my expectations. The blade is just as beautiful as the sheath. I probably called it the wrong. I will definitely order more from there. The best place to buy a katana hands down.
1060 Carbon Steel Katana with Dragon-Painted Black Saya and Phoenix Alloy Tsuba - Brown Ito Wrap
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Awesome. Beautifully made. Wife also loved it. Her favorite sword thus far.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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My Husband absolutely loved this sword. Will definitely be buying more in the future as gifts.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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Quality through and through. The blade was protected and well oiled.
Everything about this is really good. The only gripe is UPS and their delivery.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Blue Blade and White Piano Lacquer Saya - Gold Dragon Tsuba
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Beautiful sharp the real deal I love it. Definitely getting more I had my doubts but was very happy with this thank you
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
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The sword is perfect. It is sharp and designed very well. I love the colors and the dragon design on the handle .
I just would like to know what type of oil i would need to keep up the maintenance on the sword if any one knows?
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Red and Black Ito Wrap - Dragon Tsuba in Gold Alloy with Black Piano Lacquer Saya
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