Sanmai T10 Steel Tanto with Hamon in Black Pearl Rayskin Saya - Dark Blue Cord Handle, Wave Tsuba

The blade of this tanto is forged from Sanmai T10 carbon steel - a laminated construction that places a harder T10 core between softer outer layers. Hand-finished along the edge, it carries a genuine hamon line: the undulating temper boundary is clearly visible against the polished chrome-finish steel, a defining mark of traditional Japanese blade craft.

The tsuka is built over a full-tang construction and wrapped first in authentic white samegawa - real ray skin that provides a naturally rough, non-slip base layer. Dark blue ito cord is then applied in the classic diamond pattern, with the pale samegawa visible through each opening. The result is a clean two-tone grip that is firm in the hand and visually striking against the black and gold fittings.

The tsuba is cast copper with a wave theme rendered in high relief. The base is finished in deep black, while the scrolling wave crests are highlighted in gold and silver gilding, giving the guard a layered, painterly quality. Matching fuchi and habaki carry the same gold-toned metal palette, unifying the koshirae from blade to handle.

The saya is covered in black pearl rayskin - the fine, pebbly texture of the genuine ray skin is visible across the full length of the scabbard. Both the koiguchi (mouth) and kojiri (tip cap) are fitted in real horn, adding material authenticity at the two points that see the most contact. A black sageo cord is knotted at the kurikata for traditional carry or display tie-off. If you are also looking at Black Tanto Knife options, this piece sits at the more formally appointed end of the spectrum.

At 21.65 in overall length, 1.259 in blade width, and 1.54 lb, this tanto is sized and balanced for shelf display, wall mounting, or close study. Packaging dimensions of 23.6 x 3.9 x 3.5 in keep the piece fully protected in transit. For collectors drawn to rayskin-finished tanto, the Red Rayskin Saya Tanto collection offers additional colorway comparisons worth exploring.