Most Chinese swords lean into ornate fittings, dragon guards, and silk tassels. This one goes the opposite direction. Stripped down to its essentials - blade, handle, scabbard, nothing else - this is a Chinese Jian designed around the Japanese Shirasaya principle: pure function, zero ornamentation, maximum elegance through simplicity.
The blade is folded Damascus steel (Melaleuca steel), created by repeatedly hammering and folding the steel during forging. The result is a blade with visible layered grain patterns flowing across the surface - organic, unique to each piece, and impossible to replicate by machine. Both edges are hand-finished, and at 41 inches overall and just 3 lbs, it's remarkably light for a full-length double-edged sword. The blade-to-weight ratio makes it quick and responsive in hand.
The no-guard design is what makes this piece visually striking. Where most Jian have an elaborate crossguard separating blade from handle, this one transitions seamlessly from hardwood handle to steel blade with only a small brass collar at the junction. It's a clean, unbroken line from pommel to tip. The black hardwood scabbard continues that minimalist aesthetic with engraved Chinese characters adding subtle texture without breaking the overall simplicity.
There's a specific type of collector who gravitates toward this design - someone who already owns ornate pieces and is looking for contrast, or someone whose taste runs toward modern, clean lines rather than traditional decoration. If you've ever looked at a room full of elaborately dressed swords and thought "I want the one that doesn't try so hard" - this is that sword.
The single review captures it well: the buyer described it as "straight and strong" with "solid construction." At $199 (down from $239), it's priced competitively for a hand-forged folded steel sword of this length. You're not paying for decorative fittings - every dollar goes into the blade itself.
Whether you collect minimalist edged pieces, appreciate the intersection of Chinese and Japanese design traditions, or want a folded steel Jian that stands out precisely because it doesn't shout - this guardless Jian is one of the most distinctive swords in the catalog.
Includes hardwood scabbard. Stand not included. Free US shipping with 30-day money-back guarantee.
Specification
| Item Number | TK-CN-AW20132 |
| Primary Color | Black |
| Primary Material | Damascus Steel |
Item Dimensions & Packaging
| Dimensions | 41 Inches |
| Weight | 3.0 Pounds |
| Packing Size | 43 x 4 x 4 Inches |
| Shipping Weight | 4.0 Pounds |
