What does the scabbard look like and what is included?

The scabbard is hardwood finished in high-gloss black lacquer with engraved bronze fittings at throat and chape. A brown cord tassel is tied at the kurikata. Sword stand is not included. Overall length is 43 inches.

What is a beige saya made from, and how is it finished?

A beige saya is typically crafted from hardwood — often magnolia (honoki) or a comparable dense-grained alternative — shaped to fit the blade profile precisely. The beige finish can be achieved through natural wood selection, light lacquering that allows the grain to show through, or a matte sealing coat that preserves the pale, warm tone of the raw wood. Some pieces in this collection feature hand-engraved detailing on the saya surface, which adds visual texture without altering the overall color palette. This finish approach is distinct from the high-gloss black lacquer seen on many display swords, offering a more organic, artisan-focused aesthetic.

How does a gray blade finish differ from a polished or black finish?

A gray finish on a 1095 carbon steel blade is typically achieved through a controlled stone or acid treatment that leaves the surface with a soft, matte texture rather than a reflective sheen. This differs meaningfully from a mirror polish, which maximizes light reflection and highlights the blade’s geometry, and from a black finish (often achieved via heat bluing or chemical blackening), which creates a darker, more dramatic tone. The gray finish sits between these two aesthetically — understated but refined, with enough surface texture to show the blade’s forged character. Collectors who prefer a natural, antiqued appearance or who display pieces under gallery lighting often find gray finishes more visually nuanced than high-gloss alternatives.

Does TrueKatana offer free shipping on sword stands?

Updated Mar 2026

Yes. Every sword stand order ships free within the United States — no minimum purchase required. We also offer international shipping to most countries. Standard US delivery typically arrives within 3–7 business days for in-stock items.