Katana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a katana?
A katana is a traditional Japanese sword recognized by its curved, single-edged blade, circular or squared guard (tsuba), and long handle designed for a two-handed grip. Historically carried by samurai warriors, the katana is celebrated worldwide as both a masterwork of metallurgy and a symbol of Japanese culture. Today, katana swords are collected as art pieces, displayed as home decor, and used in martial arts training.
What steel is best for a katana?
It depends on your goals. 1045 carbon steel is durable and affordable — great for first-time collectors. 1095 carbon steel and T10 tool steel offer excellent edge retention and are ideal for serious enthusiasts. Damascus steel is prized for its distinctive folded patterns. For the ultimate in tradition, tamahagane steel represents the pinnacle of Japanese sword-making, produced using methods dating back centuries.
What is a full tang katana?
A full tang katana is a sword where the blade's metal extends the entire length of the handle, making the blade and handle one continuous piece of steel. This construction provides superior structural integrity, better balance, and enhanced durability compared to partial tang designs. All TrueKatana swords feature full tang construction as standard.
How should I care for my katana?
Clean the blade with a soft, lint-free cloth after each handling to remove oils and fingerprints. Apply a thin layer of choji oil (or mineral oil) every few months to protect against rust. Store your katana in a dry environment with the cutting edge facing upward. For display pieces, avoid direct sunlight to preserve the saya's lacquer finish.
Does TrueKatana offer free shipping?
Yes. Every katana order ships free within the United States — no minimum purchase required. We also offer international shipping to most countries. Standard U.S. delivery typically arrives within 1–2 weeks for hand-forged items, while our Ready to Ship collection delivers in 3–7 business days.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee on all purchases. If your katana doesn't meet your expectations, contact our support team within 30 days of delivery for a full refund or exchange. We want every customer to be completely satisfied with their sword.
Are your katana swords handmade?
Every katana in our collection is individually hand-forged by our team of 40+ skilled swordsmiths. From steel selection and forging to clay tempering and handle wrapping, each step is done by hand using traditional Japanese techniques. No two swords are exactly alike — that's what makes each one a genuine collectible.
Can I customize a katana?
Absolutely. Our custom katana service lets you choose the blade steel, length, handle wrap color, tsuba design, saya finish, and more. Custom Japanese swords are built to your specifications and typically ship within 3–4 weeks. Visit our Custom Katana page to start designing yours.
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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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
Good quality budget sword. Only complaint is that the scabbard was a poor fit and was too loose; the sword wobbled around way too much inside the scabbard when sheathed.
1045 Carbon Steel Japanese Sword with Orange Piano Lacquer Saya and Gold Dragon Tsuba
Verified Purchase











