Product Details

This shirasaya tanto features a 12.5-inch folded Damascus steel blade forged from T10 steel and hardened to 62 HRC. The layered steel reveals a flowing pattern across the entire surface, most visible near the kissaki where the Damascus grain lines converge into a polished, refined edge. The full tang blade carries solid weight at 1.5 lbs while keeping the overall profile sleek and balanced.

The 6.3-inch handle follows a traditional aikuchi design with no tsuba guard, wrapped in black polyurethane leather over a dark hardwood core. The smooth, straight profile sits comfortably in hand and maintains the clean silhouette that defines the shirasaya form. This handle-to-blade transition is one of the cleanest you will find among Black Damascus Steel Tanto Swords.

At the junction of handle and blade sits a gold-tone alloy habaki with an openwork pattern resembling cracked ice or tortoiseshell. This collar serves as the visual centerpiece of the piece, catching light against the dark handle and bright steel. The contrast between the warm gold metalwork and the matte black grip adds a layer of refinement to the minimalist design.

The 13-inch hardwood saya is finished in piano lacquer, producing a deep, glossy black surface that mirrors light evenly along its length. A single copper mekugi pin provides a subtle warm accent against the dark wood. The saya fits the blade snugly with a satisfying click, and its rounded koiguchi edge transitions smoothly into the habaki when sheathed.

At 20.5 inches overall length, this tanto sits in the compact range ideal for desk display or shelf placement. The 2 lb total weight gives it a grounded, substantial feel without being cumbersome. For collectors exploring the intersection of Damascus steel craftsmanship and traditional Japanese short sword design, this piece pairs well with other entries in the Damascus Tanto Fixed Blade collection.

  • Folded Damascus steel blade at 12.5 inches with visible layered pattern and a hand-finished edge, hardened to 62 HRC for lasting sharpness and durability.
  • Full tang construction with a 6.3-inch ebony-toned handle wrapped in black polyurethane leather, providing a clean minimalist grip in traditional shirasaya style.
  • Gold-tone alloy habaki collar features an intricate openwork pattern that contrasts elegantly against the dark handle and polished steel transition.
  • 13-inch hardwood saya finished in piano lacquer creates a smooth, glossy black surface with a single copper mekugi pin accent for refined visual detail.
  • Overall length of 20.5 inches with a total weight of 1.5 lbs - a compact tanto sized for display shelves, desk mounts, or wall-hung collections.

Specification

Product Specifications
Item NumberTK-JP-AW20020
Primary ColorBlack
Primary MaterialDamascus Steel
Saya ColorBlack
Saya MaterialHardwood Piano Lacquer
Tsuka ColorBlack
Nagasa ColorChrome
Tsuba ColorGold
Tsuba ThemeOrnate Scroll
Blade EngravingDragon
StyleShirasaya
Dimensions21 Inches
Weight2.0 Pounds
Packing Size23 x 2 x 2 Inches
Shipping Weight3.0 Pounds

Frequently Asked Questions

What steel is used in this Damascus tanto blade?
This tanto uses a folded T10 steel blade forged into a Damascus pattern with visible layered grain lines across the full 12.5-inch length. The blade is hardened to 62 HRC for edge retention and structural integrity.
Does this tanto have a tsuba hand guard?
No, this is an aikuchi-style shirasaya tanto with no tsuba. The gold-tone alloy habaki with openwork pattern serves as the only fitting between handle and blade, giving it a streamlined minimalist profile.
What finish does the saya have and what is it made from?
The 13-inch saya is carved from hardwood and finished in piano lacquer, producing a deep glossy black surface. A single copper mekugi pin adds a warm-toned accent against the dark finish.

Customer Reviews(2)

Eric Christine California, United States
Feb 27, 2021 17:14

Gave it to my brother for his 21st birthday. Sleek design excellent sharpness! 100% worth the purchase and he loved it.

Kory Jones Alabama, United States
Dec 25, 2020 06:56

The over all quality was good, but their was some damage on the scabbard and hilt. I also emailed your customer service 4 times asking for a return and possible exchange but have not recieved anything back. It currently is not with me due to traveling for christmas. So by the time i get home i will have had it for more than 14 days and the return policy says that it has to be return in 14 days. I dont know what will happen but i was upset to not be emailed back.