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
I have been very pleased with product from this company. My grandson collects these swords and this is his 4th
Manganese Steel Katana with Beige Hamon Blade, Skull Tsuba in Black and Gold Koshirae
Verified Purchase
It’s a beautiful work of art. I am very happy with my purchase. My only complaint is that it fits so tightly in the scabbard It is difficult to unsheathe.
Spring Steel Katana with Dark Red Lacquered Saya and Gold Kanji Engraving in Brown Cord Wrap
Verified Purchase
Sharp, looks great and is pretty light things great
1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade, Gold Skull Tsuba in Brown Ito Wrap
Verified Purchase
Absolutely love it such a cool peice totes recommend
Spring Steel Katana with Dark Red Lacquered Saya and Gold Kanji Engraving in Brown Cord Wrap
Verified Purchase
Both swords I have bought form hear are excellent love them
Manganese Steel Katana with Beige Hamon Blade, Skull Tsuba in Black and Gold Koshirae
Verified Purchase
Blade is incredibly sharp, well balanced, and beautifully made. The only drawback was the bottom kashira pommel cap. Frequent use causes it to slide off easily.
Manganese Steel Full Tang Katana with Black Saya Gold Kanji Engraving and Iron Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Absolutely love this sword. Craftsmanship is awesome. We will continue to use this site to purchase more.
1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade, Gold Skull Tsuba in Brown Ito Wrap
Verified Purchase
Bought this for my boyfriend as a Christmas gift and he totally freaked out! I don’t know a thing about Samurai swords, but this felt and looked very well made and legit. It even shipped faster from Japan than things I was waiting for one state away. He’s sending videos of it to his friends and family and making everyone jealous as we speak! I will definitely return here for more cool swords to add to his new collection. Thank you!
Skull Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Black Saya
Verified Purchase
Fantastic blades really well done. Weight was good very sharp! Love it
Skull Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Black Saya
Verified Purchase











