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
fast service and nice looking katana also very shar[......
Golden Damascus Steel Katana with Snake Tsuba and Python-Pattern Saya - Full Tang Collectible Sword
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very good quality blade , it was exactly as advertized, really happy with this purchase
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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I love it! The purchasing process was easy, and the shipping was quick. The Katana is amazing!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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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
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Excellent customer service! Couldn’t be happier with our purchase!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
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Love my Cortana play wish they had a smaller one to go with it
Golden Damascus Steel Katana with Snake Tsuba and Python-Pattern Saya - Full Tang Collectible Sword
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I bought this as a gift for my son and he absolutely loves it! Wonderful attention to detail and expertly crafted.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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2 years ago I became aware of the Phoenix weapon. It is activated every 138 years. In 2040 middle of May the Phoenix Phenomena will cause a pole shift, worldwide quakes, worldwide volcanism, oceans slip basins, coastal tsunamis. Atmospheric convergence will render the reptilians unable to disguise themselves. These swords are for the protection of my family and I. Phoenix also brings the Vapor Canopy atmosphere bringing optimal conditions for growth of all lifeforms. Gigantism will return. Meaning giant animals, Avians, insects and humans. And yes reptiles. Dinosaurs. Giant birds will swoop down and take humans away to be eaten. Get your swords chop those birds down and eat THEM. r
Yours Truly, Adam Wayne Herod
Sakabato Reverse Blade Katana - 1000 Layer Folded Steel Rurouni Kenshin Sword with Blue Lacquer Saya
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Fantastic piece for those who are a fan of the anime especially or katanas in general. Shipping was fast even considering it was around the christmas holiday. The sword is excellent quality and the damascus pattern on the blade is beautiful. Highly recommend this piece for any Rurouni Kenshin fan!
Sakabato Reverse Blade Katana - 1000 Layer Folded Steel Rurouni Kenshin Sword with Blue Lacquer Saya
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It is as described accept the tsuba is bright gold and fairly cheap looking. Otherwise it’s a decent sword as looks go.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
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Top Sword, handle 4/5, had minor proble3m with FedEx, but overall 5/5 because sword is very good.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
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Item arrived as described in excellent condition. Very happy with quality and service. Highly recommended. Thank you for such a quality item razor sharp
Damascus Steel Black Katana with Whirlwind Tsuba in Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Samurai Sword
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I love it... there's no other way to put it. It showed up sooner then I expected, crazy sharp, slices through everything I throw at it, and looks amazing in the process.r
Just buy the sword, your seeing this to tell if you want it, yes, you want it, just buy it already.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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At first I had an issue where I ordered 5 swords but received 1. I contacted customer service and they were very responsive and helpful. They shipped the other 4 and I am very happy with the product. I bought these swords for me and my groomsmen and I just know they're going to love it. I will definitely be a return customer! Love these swords and the quality is amazing. Thanks again TrueKatana!!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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Seems like a decent sword for about $100. You get what you pay for. Thank God!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Black Piano Lacquer Saya and Dragon Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible
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