Damascus Steel Aikuchi Tanto with Red Lacquer Saya - Dragon Engraving, Beige Rayskin Handle

The blade on this aikuchi tanto is forged from Damascus (pattern) steel, producing the layered grain lines that run from the spine down toward the edge. A hand-ground hamon traces a wave pattern along the lower third of the blade, clearly visible in direct light, while a dragon motif is engraved into the flat near the habaki - adding depth without disrupting the clean tanto geometry.;

The handle is built on a full-tang core and wrapped with genuine white samegawa - real rayskin whose pebbly texture provides grip and visual contrast against the dark fittings. A bronze-tone menuki sits flush on the side panel, and a black kashira caps the butt end, keeping the overall profile slim and classical.

This tanto follows the aikuchi style, meaning there is no tsuba between blade and handle. A gold-tone habaki seats the blade firmly in the saya and marks the transition point. The absence of a guard is intentional to the form - it gives the piece a minimalist, court-influenced silhouette distinct from standard katana mounts.

The saya is shaped from hardwood and finished in a high-gloss red piano lacquer that photographs deep crimson and holds its sheen over time. Black-and-red braided sageo cord is pre-tied at the kurigata, completing the Damascus Tanto aesthetic with a striking two-tone accent.

Overall length is 16 in and shipping weight is 2 lb, making this one of the more display-friendly entries in the Damascus Fixed Blade Tanto category. The compact form fits standard wall mounts and display stands (stand not included). Total package dimensions are 18 x 2 x 2 in.

Part of our Sharp Tanto collection.