Damascus Steel Tanto with Black Dragon Saya - Brown Tsuka, Gold Flower Tsuba, 22in Blade

The blade on this tanto is forged from folded damascus steel, producing the layered pattern characteristic of this steel type. The hand-ground edge is finished manually, as shown in the detail inset, with a clean geometry running to a fine point. At 22 inches overall and 2 lbs, the proportions are compact and true to the tanto form. The full tang extends through the entire handle, secured by the traditional mekugi peg system.

The tsuka is wrapped in brown cotton ito over a base of genuine white samegawa (ray skin), with the classic diamond-gap binding pattern exposing the textured rayskin beneath. Knot paper is fitted inside the wrap as visible in the detail image, a traditional detail that keeps the ito firm and prevents shifting over time. Small menuki accent pieces are seated beneath the binding along both sides of the handle.

The gold-tone tsuba is circular with a flower motif rendered in engraved relief - the detailed botanical design covers the surface with fine lines and depth. Matching gold fuchi and kashira collar fittings frame the tsuka at both ends, giving the koshirae a unified warm-metal accent against the brown wrap.

The black lacquered hardwood saya features an engraved dragon design carved into its surface, visible along the body of the scabbard. The finish is smooth and deep black. A braided brown-and-gold sageo is tied at the kurikata in a decorative knot, providing the color bridge between the dark saya and the warm tones of the handle assembly. This piece is part of our Damascus Steel Japanese Tanto collection.

At 22 inches overall and shipped in a 24 x 2 x 2 inch package at 3 lbs, this tanto is built around traditional koshirae design principles with consistent gold hardware, dragon saya engraving, and folded damascus steel. It fits naturally alongside other pieces in the Damascus Steel Tanto Swords lineup for collectors focused on detailed fittings and patterned blades.