T10 Steel Katana with Gold Dragon Tsuba in Black Piano Lacquer Saya - Dark Blue Wrap

The blade is forged from T10 carbon steel, a high-carbon tool steel valued for its hardness and edge retention. A genuine hamon temper line is visible along the length of the chrome-polished edge, the result of differential heat treatment applied during the hand-forging process. The full tang runs uninterrupted from tip through handle, giving the piece solid structural integrity consistent with traditional katana construction.

The handle is built on a hardwood core wrapped in black PU samegawa - a textured surface mimicking the grip of traditional ray skin. Over this, dark blue cotton ito is applied in the classic diamond-pattern wrap, creating firm raised nodes at even intervals. Gold-toned menuki ornaments sit beneath the ito on each face of the tsuka, adding a secondary layer of visual detail that rewards close inspection.

The tsuba is the defining accent piece of this katana. Cast in copper alloy and finished in gold tone, it features a bold dragon relief - the creature coiling across the circular guard in high detail. Dragon iconography carries deep significance in Japanese and East Asian traditions, representing wisdom, protection, and elemental power. Collectors drawn to Dragon Samurai Katana designs will recognize this tsuba as a standout example of the motif executed with genuine care.

The saya is constructed from hardwood and finished with multiple coats of high-gloss piano lacquer, producing a deep black mirror surface. Running along the face of the scabbard are hand-applied gold decorations: a phoenix in full spread near the kojiri, and a column of kanji characters above it. The dark blue sageo cord is knotted at the kurikata in a traditional style, providing both functional retention and visual continuity with the handle wrap.

At 41 inches overall and 4 lbs, this katana is proportioned as a full-size replica suited for wall mounting, display stands, or collection. Packaged in a 43-inch box at 5 lbs shipping weight. For collectors building a themed collection, explore the broader Dragon Samurai Katana series for complementary pieces with matching motifs.