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
A gift for my girlfriend. She absolutely loves it! My first sword now has a friend!
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
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Great katana, it genuinely holds up as a true katana the T10 metal is a strong durable metal for sure!
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
Verified Purchase
loved it had to order me a tachi to complete the set😍
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
Verified Purchase
This is my second sword from True Katana. This sword is absolutely breathtaking. Well made with tight tolerances. The blade is dark and elegant. I have it displayed on the wall of my office and it's a beautiful addition. I purchased it more for art, but from my limited experience with functional swords, I would imagine this katana could also get things done.
Snake Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Real Hamon, Handmade & Red 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
Bought as a gift for my son and he loves it. well made and great service.
T10 Folded Carbon Steel Katana with Golden Blade and Real Hamon - Manga Art Silver Saya Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
Fantastic
Sharp, beautiful and light. Attention to detail. Never bought a better sword at a better price, and I own a lot. Will definitely buy more.
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Katana with Real Hamon - Dragon Tsuba in Gold-Tone Engraved Saya
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I would have to say that these katanas are the best for their price point.
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
Verified Purchase
Beautiful scabbard, awesome sword for the price. Weight and balance is very manageable. Shipping and handling was very nicely packaged to keep the sword safe. Will definitely be returning soon!
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with White Lacquer Saya, Gold Dragon Tsuba & Black Ito Wrap
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My very first Katana, I loves them since I was in the Navy and stationed in Japan in the 1980’s!!
T10 Steel Hand-Forged Katana with Clay Tempered Blade in Black Lacquer Saya - Gold Dragon Tsuba
Verified Purchase
The blade is beautiful and showed up on time will 100% buy from this site again
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
Verified Purchase
Got to me relatively quick and sword and craftsmanship look amazing . I’ll definitely be purchasing future swords from here .
Snake Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Real Hamon, Handmade & Red Saya
Verified Purchase
Beautiful, I love it . Everything I was expecting. Very sharp !
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Katana with Real Hamon - White Saya with Manga Art and Dragon Copper Tsuba
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Great Katana. Got here fast. Definitely worth the $270.
Chrysanthemum Tsuba T10 Carbon Steel Katana, Clay Tempered, Real Hamon & Folded Steel
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I'm very happy with the craftsmanship and quality if this Katana, colors and art are beautiful.
Manganese Steel Katana with Gold Blade - Brown-White Tsuka, Samurai Painted Beige Saya
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