Why is it called 5160 steel?

The name "5160 steel" refers to a specific type of steel alloy that is commonly used in various applications, including the manufacturing of springs and blades. The name "5160" represents the numerical designation assigned to this particular steel alloy according to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) steel grade system.The SAE system is a classification system used to designate various types of steels based on their chemical composition and mechanical properties. Each steel grade is assigned a four-digit number, with the first digit indicating the main alloying element and the following digits providing additional information about the steel's composition.In the case of 5160 steel, the number "5" indicates that it is a chromium-molybdenum alloy steel. The digits "16" signify that it contains approximately 0.60-0.70% carbon by weight, which is in the high-carbon steel range. The last digit "0" does not carry any particular significance and is often omitted in discussions about the steel.5160 steel is known for its toughness, durability, and excellent resilience, making it a popular choice for applications that require high-stress resistance, such as springs and blades. It can be heat treated to achieve a combination of hardness and flexibility, making it suitable for applications where both strength and resilience are crucial.It's important to note that the specific chemical composition and properties of 5160 steel can vary slightly between different manufacturers or sources. Therefore, it is advisable to consult the material specifications or technical data sheets provided by the supplier to understand the precise composition and properties of the specific 5160 steel being used.

How does the blue ito and white samegawa handle look in person?

The 10.23-inch handle pairs blue cotton ito cord with PU white samegawa underneath. The traditional diamond-pattern wrap lets white rayskin show through at regular intervals, creating a clean blue-and-white contrast that coordinates with the blue sageo on the saya.

How does the silver crosshatch saya finish get its texture?

The hardwood saya is finished using a traditional Japanese shinogizukuri paper-wrapping technique, then coated in piano lacquer. This process creates the tight silver-and-black crosshatch pattern visible across the 30.7-inch scabbard.

How does the white crackle saya finish hold up for display?

The 30.7-inch hardwood saya is sealed with piano lacquer over a white crackle-pattern surface, which provides a durable, scratch-resistant finish suitable for long-term display. The lacquer coat protects the design while maintaining its frosted visual texture.

What is the red saya made of and what texture does it have?

Updated Feb 2026

The 30.7-inch saya is made from hardwood wrapped in red PU leather with a raised crocodile-scale texture and sealed with a piano lacquer finish. It pairs with a black sageo cord and a real copper tsuba in gold-tone floral openwork, tying the red and gold color theme together.