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
They never gave me a shipping date so it showed up with out me knowing, but was packaged well could be sharper in spots on the blade but looks to be decent quality workmanship. Already bought a second one different style.
Damascus Steel Katana with Purple Folded Blade - Dragon Tsuba in Gold with Black Red Speckled Saya
Verified Purchase
Superb quality and detail. My sword arrived much quicker than I expected. he sworn itself is as seen in the online images, I was very happy I got what I paid for just like my order. The craftsmanship is amazing and the details are more beautiful in real life. I could not be more happy with my purchase.
Damascus Steel Katana with Dragon Tsuba in Gold and Silver Gilding - Black Leather Saya Collectible Sword
Verified Purchase
I was surprised by just how nice this sword is. When you buy a handmade sword for under $300, you're not expecting to use it fighting other immortals for their power, but I was actually blown away by how well it is made. The purple color of the Damascus blade is beautiful. It was way sharper than I expected it to be. The detail of the engravings and hand guard is perfect. The sword fits securely within the sheath, which is also very nice and the wrapping on the handle is tight and the spacing is very even in the cord. While my intention for this was a wall mounted display, I have found myself handling this sword way more than I expected. Shipping was lighting fast, I think about 4-5 days from order until it arrived. I will be buying my next TrueKatana soon!
Damascus Steel Katana with Purple Folded Blade - Dragon Tsuba in Gold with Black Red Speckled Saya
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
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
Verified Purchase
Quality was great! The shipping was super fast, I literally got the order the next day! They have a huge verity so you are bound to find one that fits your style.
Damascus Steel Katana with Purple Folded Blade - Dragon Tsuba in Gold with Black Red Speckled Saya
Verified Purchase
Came in great condition and in a relatively short amount of time. Great quality. However I ordered a second sword and when it came the sheath was cracked and it didn’t have the right symbol at the base of the blade.
Damascus Steel Katana with Purple Folded Blade - Dragon Tsuba in Gold with Black Red Speckled Saya
Verified Purchase
Nice sword, good quality. Shows up oiled and sharp. The first time I ordered I received an incorrect item, however with some contact with customer service they were friendly, easy to deal with and made it right.
Damascus Steel Katana with Purple Folded Blade - Dragon Tsuba in Gold with Black Red Speckled Saya
Verified Purchase
I wish I had taken a picture but I had to wrap it for my brother for Christmas. I was consistently updated about where my Katana was and it shipped pretty fast. It took maybe 2 weeks to get to my house. Awesome service. Excellent quality Katana as well! I know my brother will LOVE it. Thank you true Katana for such an easy transaction 💓
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with White Lacquer Saya, Gold Dragon Tsuba & Black Ito Wrap
Verified Purchase
Very easy to order. Great communication when Ihad questions.
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Katana with Real Hamon - White Saya with Manga Art and Dragon Copper Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Great katana at a great price. Love the dark metal. Thanks again keep up the good work!
Damascus Steel Katana Dark Red Blade with Dragon Tsuba - Black Lacquer Saya with Multicolor Speckle
Verified Purchase
Thank you! Wonderful gift for my husband. Highly recommend!
Red Blade Katana in Manganese Steel with Dragon Tsuba, Blue Tsuka-ito & Black Dragon Saya
Verified Purchase
Great sword and shipping speed was fast. Definitely recommend!!!!
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Katana with Real Hamon - White Saya with Manga Art and Dragon Copper Tsuba
Verified Purchase
This thing is awesome. So happy I could get it finally. It came early so it was a great surprise. It’s a beautiful katana and works perfectly in my room. The handle and blade are great.
Blue Blade Manganese Steel Katana with Dragon Tsuba - Dark Blue Lightning Saya
Verified Purchase
Not as sharp as I hoped for, but otherwise it's amazing.
1000 Layer Folded Steel Katana with Red Blade and Dragon Copper Tsuba in Grey Leather-Wrapped Saya
Verified Purchase











