What is a full-tang construction and why does it matter?

Full-tang construction means the blade's steel extends the entire length of the handle, running through the tsuka (grip) rather than being attached only at the base. In a display katana, this is a meaningful quality indicator because it reflects the same structural approach used in traditionally forged Japanese swords. The tang is typically secured with a mekugi - a bamboo or metal pin passing through both the tsuka and a hole in the tang - which keeps the handle firmly seated. Collectors familiar with Japanese sword construction look for full-tang assembly as a baseline of authenticity and craftsmanship, distinguishing these pieces from decorative wall hangers with hollow or partial-tang handles.

Is the hamon on these green katanas real or just a polished finish?

Every hamon on the katana in this collection is produced through authentic differential clay tempering, not acid etching or abrasive simulation. During the heat-treatment process, clay is packed along the spine to slow the quench rate in that area, while the exposed edge cools rapidly and hardens. The transition zone that forms between hard edge and softer spine is the hamon — it exists within the steel's crystalline structure and is revealed, not created, by polishing. A genuine hamon will show activity (irregular clouding, nie particles, and curved undulation) that shifts appearance under different lighting angles. Etched or false hamon tend to look flat and uniform. Under a loupe or raking light, the real thing is unmistakable.

What does full tang mean in a katana?

Updated Feb 2026

Full tang means the steel blade extends completely through the entire length of the tsuka (handle) rather than stopping partway. The tang is secured by one or more mekugi pegs — traditionally bamboo — passing through aligned holes in the handle and the tang itself. This construction creates a single unified structure, which distributes weight along the whole sword rather than concentrating stress at a joint between blade and handle. Collectors recognize full tang construction as the correct standard for any seriously made Japanese-style sword. Partial tang or rat-tail tang designs are common in inexpensive decorative pieces and can be identified by significantly lighter handle weight and a visible seam or cap at the butt of the tsuka.