Clay-Tempered 1000-Layer Folded Steel Katana with Crane and Pine Copper Tsuba in Navy Blue

The 28.5-inch nagasa is forged from 1000 layers of folded T10 steel, clay-tempered to produce a natural hamon line visible along the polished surface. This process hardens the edge to 60 HRC while maintaining resilience in the spine, and the layered folding creates a subtle grain pattern unique to each piece. The full tang construction extends through the entire handle for structural integrity. Among Japanese Folded Steel Sword collectibles, this level of forging detail sets a high standard.

The 10.25-inch tsuka is built on a hardwood core, wrapped first in genuine white samegawa for texture and grip stability, then finished with tightly wound navy blue silk cord in a traditional diamond pattern. The white ray skin panels contrast cleanly against the deep blue ito, creating a refined visual rhythm along the handle.

Crowning the hilt is a copper alloy tsuba decorated with gold and silver gilded imagery of cranes among pine trees. The oval guard features intricate openwork detailing with a brass habaki collar seated beneath it. These motifs - cranes for longevity, pines for endurance - are deeply rooted in Japanese artistic tradition and are executed here with fine relief work.

The hardwood saya is coated in premium natural lacquer with a glossy black finish, then hand-painted with a golden phoenix motif that wraps around the scabbard. Small red accents punctuate the design, adding depth to the mythical bird imagery. A navy blue sageo cord is tied at the kurikata, matching the tsuka ito and unifying the color palette.

At 40.5 inches overall and 4.5 lbs, this katana balances visual artistry with faithful construction. From the folded steel grain to the gilded tsuba and lacquered phoenix saya, every component reflects deliberate craftsmanship. It stands as a striking Real Katana Sword collectible for display or appreciation of traditional Japanese swordsmithing.