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
Excellent. As described. Another great piece for my son and I's collection. Certainly not a cheap toy. Battle Ready.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
The sword arrived less than 15 days, very fast shipping. The sword is very sturdy and the quality is great, for the price!! The edge is not very sharp, which is okay. It is very unfortunate that the blade and tsuka cannot be disassembled for maintenance. That would be my only compliment
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
My son LOVES his new sword.
Very happy with the purchase!
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
I have held a real 95 gunto military sword and this one for the money is an excellent reproduction! Very sharp, so be careful! The metal is high grade carbon steel (1095) which holds its edge! A nice collectors piece without having to spent serious money on the real thing!
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Awesome sword Fast service
Will be buying from you guys again in the future
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Bought as a gift and friend was impressed with the quality.
Spring Steel Japanese Katana with Gold Dragon Saya and Copper Tiger Tsuba - Black Ito Wrap
Verified Purchase
Shipping was amazing. Price for sword far exceeded expectations.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Very beautiful weapon, came in perfect condition and is made very well.I am very satisfied with my purchase.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Very well put together and sharp all the way through. Sheath and blade fit nicely together and wrap is tight and sageo knot is well done.
Red 1095 Clay Tempered Katana with Raging Fire Blade and Hand-Painted Red Saya in Swirl Pattern
Verified Purchase
Great gift for my husband it came real fast and the quality of the sword was amazing. This is my 3rd order from this company and never had any issues . Thank you!
Clay Tempered 1095 Carbon Steel Katana with Blue Blade and Hand-Painted Camouflage Saya
Verified Purchase
Quick shipping and a great replica for a wartime Shin Gunto in quality and detail.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Wow. Very nice representation of type 95. Sharp , heavy with nice finish and appropriate profile. A nice addition to my collection. A fan favorite In my circle. Shipped fast and packaged well for the long journey here. Can't wait for the next order.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Very great sword it looks amazing. It’s only for star because it is a little heavy, but other than that it’s a good sword.
Spring Steel Japanese Katana with Gold Dragon Saya and Copper Tiger Tsuba - Black Ito Wrap
Verified Purchase
Great sword, fast shipping considering it came from China to the middle of the US. A little disappointed the sword did not come with the sarute.
Ornate Scroll Tsuba 1095 Carbon Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Green Saya
Verified Purchase
Quality merchandise shipped corectly and timely🤗
Red 1095 Clay Tempered Katana with Raging Fire Blade and Hand-Painted Red Saya in Swirl Pattern
Verified Purchase











