Folded Melaleuca Steel Katana with Orange Dragon-Painted Saya - Black Tsuka, Geometric Tsuba

The blade of this katana is forged from 1000-layer folded melaleuca steel, a labor-intensive process that creates the distinctive layered grain pattern visible across the polished chrome surface. A natural hamon line traces the edge, and a hand-engraved dragon motif runs along the blade near the base, adding an artistic focal point that sets this piece apart from standard production swords. Each blade is individually handcrafted by experienced swordsmiths using time-honored forging techniques, resulting in slight natural variation from piece to piece.

The tsuka is wrapped in black cord over a white ray-skin (samegawa) foundation in the traditional diamond pattern. Gold-tone menuki accents punctuate the wrap at symmetrical intervals, visible through the open braid. The grip is firm and well-proportioned at a total sword length of 41 inches, with the overall piece weighing 3 lbs.

The tsuba is finished in a striking black-blue combination with a pierced geometric star pattern, paired with a gold-tone fuchi collar that bridges the transition from blade to handle. The scalloped edge of the tsuba and the detailed openwork make this fitting a visual highlight of the koshirae-style mounting.

The orange hardwood lacquer saya is the most immediately striking element of this sword. The deep orange base coat features natural dark marbling throughout, and a hand-painted dragon scene is rendered mid-scabbard in black, white, and red ink. A black braided sageo cord wraps the kurikata, and a round red gem-style fitting adds a final detail near the mouth of the saya. Explore more designs in the Full Tang Samurai Katana collection.

This sword ships in a 43 x 4 x 4 inch package at a shipping weight of 4 lbs. The sword stand is not included. Intended for collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese sword craft and traditional koshirae design.