WWII Type 98 Shin Gunto Katana in Damascus Steel with Brown Leather Saya - Gold Tsuba Officer's Replica

The 28.3-inch Damascus steel blade is hand-forged and ground to a chrome-polished finish, revealing the layered steel's natural patterning along the flat. A real hamon runs the length of the edge, the result of differential heat treatment brought to 60 HRC hardness - delivering both visual character and a hand-finished edge that holds its geometry. For collectors interested in the full range of Damascus Katana options, this Shin Gunto sits at the more historically grounded end of the spectrum.

The full tang design extends through the entire 10.2-inch tsuka, ensuring structural integrity from tip to pommel. The handle is wrapped in brown cord over white samegawa in a classic diamond pattern - the contrast between the pale ray skin and warm brown ito visible through each opening, consistent with authentic Gunto construction standards.

A round plain alloy tsuba in gold tone separates blade from handle, its clean circular form echoing the simplified military fittings of the Type 98 design. Brass menuki accents sit beneath the wrap, adding subtle detail without disrupting the historical character of the piece.

The brown leather saya measures 30.3 inches and is fitted with visible edge stitching, brass stud hardware at the koiguchi, and a matching brown sageo. The natural leather surface develops patina over time, reinforcing the period-correct visual of the WWII Japanese officer's saber. Collectors looking at the broader category of Brown Saya Japanese Samurai Swords will find this leather construction particularly well-executed.

At 40.5 inches overall and 2.65 lbs, this Type 98 Shin Gunto replica is proportioned accurately to the historical saber it references. The combination of Damascus steel patterning, gold hardware, and cognac-brown leather creates a cohesive warm-toned palette suited for wall display, collection, or historical study.