Katana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a full tang katana?
A full tang katana means the blade steel continues through the handle instead of stopping near the guard. This matters because the handle and blade are part of one continuous structure, which gives the sword better stability and durability than a partial tang or decorative-only construction. For collectors, full tang construction is also a useful sign that the sword was made with more serious build quality in mind. All TrueKatana swords are full tang, but buyers should still read each product page for steel type, blade length, sharpness, fittings, and intended use.
Are katanas legal in the US?
In general, owning a katana at home is legal in many parts of the United States, but laws can vary by state, city, age, transportation method, and public carry rules. Ownership is not the same as carrying a sword in public. California, New York, Texas, Florida, and other states may treat possession, open carry, concealed carry, and restricted locations differently. Before buying or transporting a katana, check your local laws and avoid carrying a metal sword in public unless you clearly understand the rules. TrueKatana products are best treated as collectibles or display items unless a product page says otherwise.
What is the difference between katana and samurai sword?
A katana is one specific type of Japanese sword. It usually has a curved, single-edged blade, a long grip for two-handed use, and a guard called a tsuba. “Samurai sword” is a broader phrase people use for swords associated with samurai culture. That can include katana, wakizashi, tanto, tachi, and other Japanese blade styles. In online shopping, many people use “katana” and “samurai sword” almost the same way, but they are not exactly identical. If you are buying one, focus less on the label and more on the details: blade type, steel, length, tang construction, edge condition, and intended use.
How to display a katana?
The safest and cleanest way to display a katana is with a proper sword stand, wall rack, or display case. Keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, children, pets, and high-traffic areas where it could be knocked down. Many collectors display the katana in its saya, especially if the blade is sharp or carbon steel. If you display the blade unsheathed, make sure the room is dry and the blade is lightly oiled. For a traditional look, place the sword horizontally on a stand with the handle to the left or right depending on your display preference. The most important thing is stability and safe handling.
What are katanas made of?
Modern katana swords can be made from several types of steel. Common options include 1045 carbon steel, 1060 carbon steel, 1095 carbon steel, T10 tool steel, folded steel, Damascus-style steel, and sometimes tamahagane for higher-end traditional-style pieces. The fittings may include iron, brass, copper, alloy, wood, rayskin, cotton wrap, leather wrap, and a lacquered wooden saya. The best material depends on what you want from the sword. A display buyer may care more about polish and design, while a collector may look more closely at steel, heat treatment, hamon, and full tang construction. All TrueKatana swords are full tang, which is an important construction detail for buyers to know.
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Customer Reviews
Placed the order on July 14th and received the sword today. Apparently when TrueKatana says "in stock" that means in stock in China.....still, the tracking was not bad at all, I could log on and get info anytime, right up until delivery. I admit I was apprehensive about paying this much for a Katana, but I have to say that it has exceeded my expectations and I am very happy with this purchase. r
The fit and finish is absolutely perfect, I cannot find a flaw in this blade, handle or scabbard. It even came with a neat silk lined case that I wasn't expecting. The Hamon is perfect, the blade has a beautiful taper and it is true to all the features of a WWII type 98 Shin Gunto. Anyone worried about the quality matching the price should buy with confidence, you will not be disappointed with this Katana!!!!!!
WWII Type 98 Shin Gunto Katana in Damascus Steel with Brown Leather Saya - Gold Tsuba Officer's Replica
Verified Purchase
Just opened it. Amazing, very beautiful. r
Thank you. r
r
Dan
Damascus Steel Katana with Real Hamon, Red Lacquer Saya & Gold Bamboo Tsuba
Verified Purchase
Impressive quality!
I realize this is not a $10,000–$20,000 sword from from the exclusive Japanese masters with long wait lists, but I have to say this is quite well crafted. I talked to a buddy about it who knows a bit about blacksmithing, and he says this is legit.
It also has a beautiful aesthetic pleasing to the eye.
Im very happy with my purchase.
(4 stars for not being a Masamune haha)
Sanmai Steel Katana with Red Lacquer Saya - Cherry Blossom Tsuba, Black Cord Handle
Verified Purchase
It is an amazing sword! The balance seems perfect to me. The saya is one of the nicest sayas I’ve ever seen, and I happy to have it, I’m still trying to decide what to do with the Sageo, the black that comes with it is a good look definitely but I’ll change the sageo on several of my swords from from time to time. The blade is just gotgeous and its sharpeness is very impressive, as it cut right through a piece of paper when I took it out. If you want a sword for cutting then this is definitely a worthwhile purchase. It’s a beautiful piece as well so you can’t really go wrong with this sword. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Do I even need to say the last part? I will anyway. Highly recommended!
Bamboo Tsuba Damascus Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Black Red Flower Saya
Verified Purchase
Beautiful Katan for the price. I am very happy with my purchase :)
Bamboo Tsuba Damascus Steel Katana, Full Tang, Handcrafted & Black Red Flower Saya
Verified Purchase
This exceeded my expectations. I am glad that this was my purchase.
Melaleuca Steel Katana with Real Hamon - Bronze Lion Tsuba, Black Hardwood Lacquer Saya, Full Tang
Verified Purchase
Love my purchase it truly is a beautiful Katana Ww2 sword I will definitely tell my fellow martial arts in the sword. Very very beautiful sword thank you.
WWII Type 98 Shin Gunto Katana in Damascus Steel with Brown Leather Saya - Gold Tsuba Officer's Replica
Verified Purchase











