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
Excellent workmanship very authentic reproduction of the real sword. Thank yo
WWII Type 98 Shin Gunto Officer Katana in 1095 Carbon Steel with Brown Leather Saya and Flower Tsuba
Verified Purchase
One of the absolute best katana swords I've ever owned to date, such an amazing balance and feel in the hand. Expertly crafted and absolutely beautiful in every way!r
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Thank you!
1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Dragon Carved Blade in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Red and Black Tsuka
Verified Purchase
Fantastic quality and looks amazing i couldn't be happier
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
The swords were perfectly balanced with a razor sharp edge the was perfectly hand honed. They are extremely durable and the easy at which they perform is awesome.
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
Very happy with my purchase and will definitely order again in the future!
1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Red Blade, Wave Engraving - Black-Gold Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
Sword is beautifully made. The shipping process was quick and I have 0 issues regarding the sword I received, however, the sword is not as sharp as I was expecting it to be, I'd just recommend getting some whetstone if that's important to you.
WWII Type 98 Shin Gunto Officer Katana in 1095 Carbon Steel with Brown Leather Saya and Flower Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Very happy with my purchase. Katana arrived in perfect condition and the craftsmanship is very good
1095 Clay Tempered Katana with Rose Gold Blade in Koi Fish Painted Saya - Full Tang Japanese Sword
Verified Purchase
Better than I expected for the price it was. The grip was nice and first and nothing was lose
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
I have purchased several excellent swords from True Katana but this one truly outranks them all. For the price point, this one is an absolutely amazing value. The sword is tight, sharp and
flawlessly elegant. I cannot recommend this Katana highly enough. If you are looking for a sword, do yourself a favor and order this one - you will not be disappointed.
Dragon Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Handmade, Black Saya & Purple Tsuka
Verified Purchase
Great sword, arrived quickly, zero complaints. The sword is great, cuts through pumpkins and various vegetables with ease. It's feels good in the hand and is sturdy. Finally I received my order in less than a week. Overall a great purchase.
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
Speedy delivery and a quality sword. Will be buying another and I will recommend. Thank you TrueKatana
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
Real leather and great quality. I was surprised how lightweight and well made it was.
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
Shipped fast, sword is much nicer than I had anticipated..It came "sort of" sharp, but I put an edge on it, slices clean through paper. Wrapping (I got the leather) is nice, diamonds evenl
1095 Carbon Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Blade and Leather-Wrapped Saya in Black
Verified Purchase
I liked that i got updated information as to when my order would arrive etc. The packing of the swords was exceptionally nice and high quality. I was impressed with the items when i unpacked them.
Round Plain Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Full Tang & Handmade
Verified Purchase
I love the sword it’s razor sharp my brother accidentally cut his finger world definitely Recommend amazing quality only drawback is how easily it unsheathes sometimes but other than that it’s a great sword
Dragon Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Handmade, Black Saya & Purple Tsuka
Verified Purchase











