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
Beautiful stunning Handmade Swords, Thank you so much. I have always wanted a real true katana.
Manganese Steel Katana with Blue-White Blade, Mermaid-Engraved White Saya & Blue Tsuka
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What a wonderful gift chosen for my grandson. His smile speak the million words of the detailed craftsmanship of the sword to the life time of memory of having this beautiful piece of art.
Manganese Steel Blue Blade Katana with White Vine Saya and Flower Tsuba - Full Tang Collectible Sword
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The sword looked pretty online but is JAW DROPPING in person! Such a beautiful blade!
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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This katana is a Christmas gift for my best friend and it came out perfect!! He’s going to love it!
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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I ordered this as my future husband’s wedding present. It came yesterday and he is going to absolutely love it! It is beautiful, and so well made. Thank you!
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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The product looked great! I only wish there was an option to engrave the blade and/or scabbard.
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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Sword is legit and authentic. I definitely recommend.
Dragon Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Beige Saya
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Gorgeous and high quality blade. The art is absolutely stunning. Was purchased for a Christmas gift, it was the best decision.
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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Love the craftsmanship. It was the perfect item to remember my son who recently passed.
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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I bought this katana for my best friend’s birthday. He absolutely loves it!! It is such a beautiful piece of art. The detail is astounding. AND, it was delivered 5 days early!r
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Great job to the team.
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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This katana was beautiful. I will be adding more true katanas to my collection.
1045 Carbon Steel Katana with Gold Wave Tsuba and Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Brown Ito Wrap
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This was the 3rd sword I've received from True Katana recently and once again exquisite. It arrived on time well packaged in perfect condition and is sharp as all 3 from True Katana have been and it is absolutely beautiful. True Katana blades are top notch and priced well. True Katana not only has my trust but my loyalty. Excellent customer service and quality real deal blades each masterfully crafted with attention to detail. I highly recommend True Katana...
Dragon Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Beige Saya
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All I can say is wooooooow !!!!
I bought the katana for my fiancé and he was In love ! It’s gorgeous, it’s heavy, he loved it so much that he is already 3D printing a mount for it and wants to purchase more for himself ! If I could give it more stars I would !
Golden Blade Manganese Steel Katana with Sakura Floral Engravings in Black Piano Lacquer Saya
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This was a birthday gift for my son. He had previously picked it out. He was very happy with it and has placed it on display with his others. Having his display is full now and that was very satisfying to him. Thank you
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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I love the design and detail of the flower on the sword, it gives off Elegance to it.
1045 Carbon Steel Blue Katana with Cherry Blossom Engraved Blade and Piano Lacquer Saya - Collectible Japanese Sword
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