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
It took a little bit to get here but when it did it is deff the prittyest sward i have ! It looks perfect and feels very , very good in my hands !! I will deff be buying anouther sward from them
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Samurai-Print Saya, Skull Tsuba in Gold-Black, Gray Ito
Verified Purchase
It came earlier than expected and let me tell you it's down right a masterpiece.
T10 Steel Black Blade Katana with Skull Copper Tsuba and Red Lacquered Saya - Full Tang Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
Have purchased many swords from here, this one is stunning!
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Samurai-Print Saya, Skull Tsuba in Gold-Black, Gray Ito
Verified Purchase
Fast shipping solid katana nice and sharp only took a week to arrive very pleased
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Samurai-Print Saya, Skull Tsuba in Gold-Black, Gray Ito
Verified Purchase
First off, I'm amazed at the craftsmanship, feel and detail of this piece. It came early which was really nice since the anticipation almost got me. Now that it's here am truly satisfied with it and will recommend this to anyone.
T10 Clay Tempered Skull Katana with Brown Leather Saya and Black Ito Wrap - Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
The katana arrived in excellent condition and was very sharp right out of the box. Purchased for a family member and they are very satisfied!
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Lotus Leaf Tsuba in Beige Lacquered Saya - Full Tang Japanese Sword
Verified Purchase
great quality for fittings and ability to hold an edge and overall quality. my only criticisms are the end cap being loose and a slightly inconsistent polish along one side of the blade. as a whole it's more than worth the price. thanks.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Lotus Leaf Tsuba in Beige Lacquered Saya - Full Tang Japanese Sword
Verified Purchase
Slight knick at the very tip, but overall a very solid sword.
T10 Clay Tempered Skull Katana with Brown Leather Saya and Black Ito Wrap - Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
Very pleased with my order. I will definitely order more katana's, in the very near future.
T10 Clay Tempered Skull Katana with Brown Leather Saya and Black Ito Wrap - Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
At present I have received nothing and the shipper claims to have no information about order.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Lotus Leaf Tsuba in Beige Lacquered Saya - Full Tang Japanese Sword
Verified Purchase
The sword is pretty hype. it’s perfect balanced. I love swinging it around every chance I get.
T10 Clay Tempered Skull Katana with Brown Leather Saya and Black Ito Wrap - Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase











