1090 Carbon Steel Katana with Koi Bronze Tsuba in Black-Orange Saya - Full Tang Replica

The blade on this full-tang katana is ground from 1090 carbon steel, a high-carbon alloy valued for its edge retention and the clean hamon line it develops during the hardening process. The chrome-polished finish runs the length of the 40.55-inch overall blade, with gentle curvature and a well-defined kissaki that reflect the proportions of classical Japanese sword geometry. At 2.8 lbs, the balance sits comfortably in hand without feeling front-heavy. For collectors interested in the full range of Carbon Steel Sword options, the 1090 grade represents a reliable mid-tier choice with strong visual impact.

The tsuka construction layers PU red samegawa beneath a tightly hand-wound black ito, producing the diamond-shaped pattern traditional to Japanese sword handle work. Red samegawa diamonds show through the gaps in the black cord wrap, creating a red-on-black contrast that reads clearly even at a distance. The handle geometry tapers toward the kashira in the standard koshirae proportion, with menuki hardware seated under the wrap for grip texture and visual depth.

The tsuba is one of the most distinctive elements of this build. Cast in bronze with a warm amber-gold patina, it depicts two koi fish in high relief, their scales individually textured and their bodies arching through stylized waves and cloud forms. The habaki collar behind it echoes the same bronze tone, creating a cohesive metal accent zone between blade and handle. This level of thematic casting detail is uncommon at this price point and makes the guard a genuine focal point of the piece.

The saya is shaped from hardwood and finished in a deep gloss black lacquer. Orange-toned sageo cord is wound at regular intervals down the length of the scabbard, breaking the black surface into distinct banded segments that visually reference the tsuka's red accents. A brown braided sageo cord is attached at the kurigata, adding a third warm tone that ties the bronze tsuba color back into the overall palette. The lacquer surface is smooth and hard, protecting the blade during storage while maintaining a polished presentation. Those exploring the broader 1090 Katana category will find this koshirae among the more visually layered configurations available.

Overall dimensions measure 40.55 inches in length, 1.259 inches wide, and 0.275 inches at the spine, with a shipping weight of 3.3 lbs. The complete koshirae-style fittings - bronze tsuba, habaki, menuki, and kashira - are tonally matched throughout, making this a cohesive replica piece suited for wall display, collection photography, or costume use. Sword stand not included.