Nihonto Katana Sword in Manganese Steel with Black Blade and Moon-Phase Saya Design

This nihonto katana features a full tang blade forged from high manganese steel with a black finish that runs the entire length of the cutting edge. At 40.5 inches overall with a blade width of 1.26 inches, the sword carries real presence while maintaining a balanced profile at 2.87 lbs. The precision-finished edge and dark steel surface create a bold, understated look that sets this piece apart from standard polished blades.

The 11-inch tsuka is built on a wood core wrapped first in PU white samegawa, then overlaid with PU black leather cord in a tight diamond-pattern weave. The contrast between the white rayskin texture peeking through the black wrap gives the handle its classic visual rhythm while ensuring a secure, non-slip grip. This construction mirrors the traditional samurai handle-building method adapted with modern materials for durability.

The alloy tsuba carries a round profile with two bold semi-circular cutouts, finished in black to match the overall theme. Its clean, graphic silhouette echoes the moon motifs found on the saya, tying the design language together. Browse more pieces with similar aesthetics in our Black Antique Katana collection.

The black hardwood saya is coated in premium natural lacquer and decorated with a repeating white crescent moon-phase pattern along its length, with three circular moon dots near the center and a crescent cluster at the kojiri tip. A multi-color sageo in woven gold, black, and white tones is tied around the kurikata, adding a textured accent. This saya design makes the piece instantly recognizable and ideal for display. For more swords with similar scabbard craftsmanship, see our Handwood Saya Katana selection.

From the darkened manganese steel blade to the lunar-themed saya and the graphic tsuba cutouts, every component of this nihonto katana is coordinated around a black-and-white palette with gold sageo accents. At 2.87 lbs with full tang construction, it balances visual impact with structural integrity - a collector's piece built to be admired up close.