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
This sword is a very, very beautiful sword and I am proud to own it. Feels great, nice and tight. Definitely a work of art. Damascus steel rocks! I plan to purchase others very soon.
Damascus Steel Katana with Red Dragon Embossed Saya in Black Lacquer - Gold Alloy Wave Tsuba
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excellent katana, very pretty, I would definitely buy again
Damascus Steel Katana with Red Dragon Embossed Saya in Black Lacquer - Gold Alloy Wave Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Its a good sword for 380 bucks the silk wrap is on there tight and the blade is sharp cuts through paper like nothing. The dragon isn’t red its orange but it still looks good. I just messed up and bought the sword before a big sale of 40% off, I could’ve got the sword for a lot cheaper and Instead of getting the sword for 233 I bought it for 360 oof
Damascus Steel Katana with Red Dragon Embossed Saya in Black Lacquer - Gold Alloy Wave Tsuba
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
Absolutely fantastic completely battle ready. Love it
Damascus Steel Katana with Dragon Engraved Blade, Gold Tsuba, Black-Red Handle and Black Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
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
so far so good. the paint on the scabbard is worn away and some of the fittings are loose
Damascus Steel Katana with Red Dragon Embossed Saya in Black Lacquer - Gold Alloy Wave Tsuba
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
I was looking for a display katana but wanted a sharp blade and something that was aesthetically pleasing for a reasonable price. I can honestly say that I am very satisfied with my purchase. My only suggesting would be that the company should include a sword bag even if it adds a little to the purchase price.
T10 Steel Hand-Forged Katana with Clay Tempered Blade in Black Lacquer Saya - Gold Dragon Tsuba
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Couldn't be happier with my sword. Will definitely order again in the future!
Damascus Steel Katana with Dragon Engraved Blade, Gold Tsuba, Black-Red Handle and Black Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
I love it! It is inspiring to hold. I now am working on becoming fit enough to possess such an amazing blade. Thank you.
T10 Steel Katana with Clay Tempered Blade & Gold-Black Dragon Tsuba - Black Lacquer Saya
Verified Purchase
I was very pleased with the quality of workmanship and beauty of the katana that I purchased. The order came swiftly within the time frame given.
It may have been my mistake, but I was never queued for the sharpness of the blade. Other than that I am very pleased with my order. Thank you
T10 Folded Clay Tempered Katana with Real Hamon - Full Tang Collectible Sword in Brown Ito and Gold Dragon Tsuba
Verified Purchase
The product was fast for what it is and the quality is amazing, overall I enjoyed everything and I would like to shop here again.
Damascus Steel Katana with Red Dragon Embossed Saya in Black Lacquer - Gold Alloy Wave Tsuba
Verified Purchase
The clip Saber blade design slides into a fantasy, without stearing to far from tradition. Sharpest yet a true dicer. This is truly speed steal to swing. Thanks guys
T10 Carbon Steel Katana with Real Hamon in Red Lacquer Saya - Black & Red Tsuka, Ornate Scroll Tsuba
Verified Purchase
I'm enjoying my katana, everything was pretty fine, the description is very accurate which is important to know what you are buying. Same with the tracking system with pretty updated info. Anxious to buy my next katana.
Damascus Steel Katana with Gold-Black Lacquer Saya - Dragon Tsuba, Black Cord Handle, Folded Blade
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