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 got a custom order done and the quality is very good, but I am giving this a 5 star because the support team was amazing and quick to respond not sure if it was really worth 500 usd but I enjoyed the support experience and the blade turned out very well.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Real Hamon, Blue Cord Handle & Chrysanthemum Tsuba - Black Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
I bought this as a gift for my husband. Let me tell you, best gift ever! He was ecstatic! We are very impressed with the quality of this sword. Shipping was also very fast and secure.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Dragon Engraving, Green Lacquer Saya & Wave Tsuba
Verified Purchase
I ordered a custom replica of zoro's sandai kitetsu, I have no words to give it justice, brilliant work, sure I'll get back to you as soon as I can. I'm looking forward to having another one of your works.
Thanks
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Real Hamon, Blue Cord Handle & Chrysanthemum Tsuba - Black Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
This Katana actually looks better in person. The attention to detail is very impressive. This thing is a functional work of art. Big respect to the swordsmith. I have to give props to TrueKatana for the price also. Pretty happy with this purchase.
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Steel Katana with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
Love my sword got it awhile back and still in excellent shape.
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Real Hamon, Full Tang & Handmade
Verified Purchase
Good quality, got here in a week. Very happy with more purchase, and will definitely grab a few more blades.
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Dragon Tsuba in Blue Dragon-Pattern Saya - Real Hamon, Full Tang
Verified Purchase
Beautiful sword! The craftsmanship is wonderful. Nice balance and handles great. The sword's packaging made it arrive in perfect condition. I'm very pleased with this sword!
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Steel Katana with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
Another win-win for True Katana. This is the second sword I purchased, this one is for my son, its everything they said it would be. And so much more wehn you see the real sword. Came shipped in a well wrapped Styrofoam package and was delivered in 10 days. The blade was well oiled, sharp and beautiful. Makes me want to keep it for myself. I know my son is going to love this gift. Highly recommend True Katana Swards
T10 Steel Hand Forged Katana with Clay Tempered Blade, Dark Red Lacquer Saya - Lion Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Absolutely love the katana! Although, I haven't done any testing. Also half interested in getting a different sheath for it, the current one is good, just looking at a potential different style. Thank your smiths for they're time and dedication for me please. Thank you!
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Steel Katana with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
I'm no katana expert, however the katana sword by "True Katana" has a quality feel and look to it. The handle wrapping is tight and the fittings are nice. The blade is SHARP and LIVE. "IT WILL CUT". Delivery was pretty fast.
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Real Hamon, Full Tang & Handmade
Verified Purchase
I love the items I ordered, but can't give a complete review until after Christmas they are a gift
T10 Steel Hand Forged Katana with Clay Tempered Blade, Dark Red Lacquer Saya - Lion Tsuba
Verified Purchase
It’s really nice katana.Wonderful design and workmanship.
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Steel Katana with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase











