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 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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
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
Verified Purchase
It’s my first sword and I’m really satisfied with its quality. The materials look premium, the handle feels good and the balance is nice although I haven’t cut anything with it apart from some paper. It’s not as sharp as I would have wished it to be and it has a little chip on the apex, which may have occurred from transportation or from sheathing/unsheathing, but nothing that can’t be fixed with a little patience and sharpening. Regarding transportation and sheath; the package was simple, foam wrapped in tape, the sheath and handle were wrapped in plastic, BUT, the blade was coated probably with an anti corrosion oil and wrapped in a plastic foil; the sheath feels a bit on the big side as the blade kinda wobbles inside from left to right and sheathing/unsheathing leaves chips of wood on the apex.r
I love the pattern on the blade.r
All in all, I’m really satisfied with it as a first purchase, and I’m really curious and excited about buying a tamahagane blade in the future.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Amazing. Came in before xmas and was well received!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
First time ever owing something that screams discipline. I was researching ok weaponry and the history of Japan, At first I was learning about shikomizue which then lead me to Zatoichi and now you guys(TrueKatana). I am very thankful to own this and thankful for you guys for having marketing available for customers such as myself. Eleven out of ten in my opinion if that’s even possible?
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Everything is tight and blade is sharp. Shipping time was acceptable and a great price for the quality.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
The sword is absolutely beautiful and sharp enough to shave with. The scabbard is like the design is engraved into the leather before being painted silver with is pretty cool. It's sturdy and the blade fits nicely in the scabbard. All in all I'm happy with this new addition to my now 7 katana sword collection.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Silver Engraved Saya - Real Hamon, Full Tang, Dark Blue Cord Handle
Verified Purchase
Really nice sword! This was my first time ordering from true katana and I am very impressed with the quality and craftsmanship of this sword.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Couldn’t be happier with my purchase! This thing is incredibly detailed and simply too sharp. Upon arrival i immediately made another purchase.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
This truly one fine sword. It is lightweight, and balanced perfectly. The blade is flexible, yet firm. It's sharper than a razor. Great quality
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
The Katana is beautiful! The Damascus pattern really stands out and the full tang gives the sword good weight and a feeling of stability. The fact that the sword arrived oiled and wrapped inside as well as outside, shows the level of care by the sword smith. The price was extremely reasonable and the craftsmanship is outstanding. The pictures on the website don’t do the Damascus pattern justice.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Placed this order for my stepson. Excellent service.
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Very nice quality at a most reasonable price. Swift delivery. I recommend highly
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase
Perfect, my sister loved it and will probably chase me around with it!
Damascus Steel Katana Sword with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Full Tang Collectible
Verified Purchase











