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
Verified Purchase
It's both affordable and real. Very well made and beautiful sword.
Manganese Steel Katana with Green Ito Wrap in Black Lacquered Saya - Gold Floral Tsuba Samurai Sword
Verified Purchase
no complaints. everything was good. it was a gift n i got good feedback. v sharp blade.
Manganese Steel Katana with Bronze Totem Leather Saya in Gold and Dark Blue - Collectible Samurai Sword
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Absolutely excellent quality, product is exactly as described and it arrived quicker than I expected. Will def be shopping more often!
Golden Katana Sword - 1045 Steel Blade with Dragon Tsuba in Gold PU Leather Saya Collectible
Verified Purchase
Good evening, r
r
Upon receiving my new katana sword, I was absolutely thrilled at how beautiful it is and it appears to be very well made. It is lightweight and easy to handle! I can’t wait to practice wielding it so that I may become adept and proficient at its use! Thank you very kindly again! I’d also like to add that I will be sharing my appreciation of your craftsmanship with my friends and family, so they are aware of your quality product as well! r
r
Sincerely, Bradley Darin Bluntr
(Prospective Samurai)
Skull Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Gray Saya
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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
Verified Purchase
Quality was great and shipping was fast. Will definitely recommend to others
Manganese Steel Katana with Green Ito Wrap in Black Lacquered Saya - Gold Floral Tsuba Samurai Sword
Verified Purchase
The packaging was very secured, tracking went great. I’m very satisfied with my package
Manganese Steel Katana with Golden Blade and Brown Leather-Wrapped 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
Verified Purchase
Omg my boyfriend love it!!! He super heavy and super sharp!!!! It’s literally sword !!! It took a while to get here, but it got here!
Golden Katana Sword - 1045 Steel Blade with Dragon Tsuba in Gold PU Leather Saya Collectible
Verified Purchase
Great product and communication was very professional!
Lion Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Black Dragon Saya
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I’d maybe make an effort to emphasize handguards. It’s a sweet item. I may have not chosen to even get it with a handguard but I also just wasn’t aware sometimes it’s worth considering getting one
Lion Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Black Dragon Saya
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Very fast shipping and quality was really really amazing for the price am very happy with this and will most likely continue shopping here in the future!
Manganese Steel Blue Printed Katana with Silver PU Leather Saya and Lotus Alloy Tsuba - Full Tang Samurai Sword
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