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
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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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Sword is legit and authentic. I definitely recommend.
Dragon Tsuba Manganese Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handmade & Beige Saya
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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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Very happy with my purchase. Katana arrived in perfect condition and the craftsmanship is very good
1095 Clay Tempered Katana with Rose Gold Blade in Koi Fish Painted Saya - Full Tang Japanese Sword
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Shipping was fast and packaging was great! Arrived much sooner than expected. Now my husband will get his anniversary gift on time.
Black Blade Katana in Manganese Steel with Kanji Engraved Saya and Red-Black Tsuka Wrap
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Finally got my katana from truekatana.com I am absolutely in love with it! The craftsmanship is great, the quality is amazing and I'm very happy with it overall. If your looking to buy your own I recommend truekatana.com you won't be disappointed! The price you pay for the quality sword you get is amazing. I will be buying another in the near future! Go get yours, you will be very happy! Truly a beautiful piece of art! I am very happy with my purchase! Thank guys your the best!
Folded Melaleuca Steel Katana with Orange Dragon-Painted Saya - Black Tsuka, Geometric Tsuba
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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
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Well I can say that the sword is a work of art with out a doubt I can also say that it is made of cheaper parts besides the metal that I ordered. The craftsmanship is not to bad but not incredible. It is good for its price range. But I can't see myself using it to learn any new skills.
On a different note there was a bit of shipping damage SO PLEASE be
warned!
Black Manganese Steel Katana with Geisha-Painted White Saya and Wave Tsuba - Brown Wood Handle
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Sharp, looks great and is pretty light things great
1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade, Gold Skull Tsuba in Brown Ito Wrap
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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
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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
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Very well packaged, daughter really loves it. Will look great above her bed. It’s very pretty, thank you!
1060 Manganese Steel Katana with Brown Tsuka, Silver Scroll Tsuba & Black Lacquer Saya
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Beautiful blade and sharp. I love everything about it. Excellent work
Blue Blade Manganese Steel Katana with Hand-Painted Geisha Saya in White and Floral Copper Tsuba
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