Damascus Steel Tanto in Red Lacquer Saya with Floral Copper Tsuba - Black & Red Cord Wrap

The blade of this tanto is forged from folded damascus pattern steel, hand-worked to draw out the characteristic layered grain that runs from the spine to the edge. The steel surface shows natural variation in the folded melaleuca layers, with a precision-finished edge ground along the gentle curve toward a defined point. At 1.26 inches wide and spanning a compact overall length of 21.65 inches, the blade proportions are true to the tanto form - built for the collector who values authentic Japanese sword geometry.

The handle is constructed over a full-tang core, ensuring the blade extends continuously through the grip for solid structural integrity. Red PU samegawa wraps the hardwood core beneath black cotton ito, wound in the traditional diagonal diamond pattern that exposes rhombus-shaped glimpses of red beneath each crossing. The contrast of black over red gives the tsuka a bold, graphic quality that sets this tanto apart on any display stand.

The copper tsuba is one of the most visually striking elements of this piece. Cast with a floral theme, it carries deeply carved chrysanthemum and foliage motifs across its surface, finished in an antique gold tone that reads warm against the black ito. Matching copper fittings appear at the kashira and habaki, tying the hardware palette together. If you're exploring pieces in this style, the Damascus Fixed Blade Tanto collection offers additional options in this construction.

The saya is crafted from hardwood and finished in a deep lacquered red - a bold, high-gloss surface that anchors the entire color story of the sword. Hand-painted silver and green bamboo branch artwork runs along the body of the scabbard, detailed with fine brushwork that gives each branch and leaf its own character. A black braided sageo ties around the saya with a decorative knot finished with a dark bead, adding traditional carrying cord detail. For more options in this palette, the Red Damascus Steel Tanto collection is worth exploring.

At 1.98 lbs and shipping at 3 lbs in a 23 x 3 x 3 inch package, this tanto arrives ready for display. Sword stand not included.