Damascus Steel Tanto with Dragon Tsuba - Black Cord Handle & Natural Wood Saya

The blade of this tanto is forged from folded damascus steel, producing a distinctive layered surface pattern that reflects the handcrafting process. A hand-finished edge runs the full length of the blade, which extends full-tang into the handle for solid balance and structural integrity. The blade measures 20.5 inches overall and shows the characteristic texture of folded melaleuca steel along the flat. For collectors interested in Damascus Fixed Blade Tanto designs, this piece represents a well-rounded example of the form.

The tsuka (handle) is built on a full-tang core and wrapped in black cotton cord over a white ray-skin (samegawa) underlayer, following traditional Japanese tsuka construction. The diamond-pattern spacing of the cord wrap exposes the samegawa at regular intervals, creating the classic visual rhythm seen on period-accurate sword handles. The kashira (pommel cap) is finished in a matching dark tone.

At the junction of blade and handle sits a round alloy tsuba cast with a detailed dragon relief in an antique gold finish. The dragon motif wraps the full face of the guard with fine surface texture, while the center opening uses a lattice-cut design that adds visual depth. This is one of the more ornate tsuba configurations available in the Bronze Damascus Steel Tanto category, combining gold-tone hardware with the warmth of natural wood.

The saya is crafted from natural wenge wood, displaying a rich reddish-brown grain with visible wood figure throughout. It is secured with a braided black sageo cord tied in a traditional knot near the koiguchi, creating a strong visual contrast between the dark cord and the warm wood tone. The natural lacquer finish preserves the wood grain while providing a durable surface.

At 20.5 inches overall and shipping at 2.5 lbs in a 33 x 4 x 4 inch package, this tanto is sized for shelf or wall display and suited for collectors seeking a piece with consistent traditional detailing - from the folded steel blade to the dragon tsuba and wenge saya.