Damascus Steel Tanto with Dragon Saya - Black Ito, Gold-Black Bamboo Tsuba, Hamon Blade

The blade is forged from layered Damascus steel, with the folded grain pattern visible across the flat and along the shinogi. A hand-finished hamon traces the edge from base to tip - a flowing nie line that reflects the differential hardening process applied during forging. At 21.6 inches overall and 1.26 inches wide at the base, the tanto carries the compact authority the form is known for.

The tsuka is wrapped in black cotton ito over genuine white samegawa, the ray-skin texture pressing through each diamond gap in the braid. Silver menuki sit nestled beneath the wrap, adding subtle dimension. The full-tang construction runs through the handle core for structural integrity across the assembly.

The tsuba is the visual centerpiece of the koshirae. Cast in copper and finished in a gold-and-black two-tone treatment, it features an openwork bamboo motif with gilded branch and leaf relief against a darkened ground. The contrast between the matte black field and the warm gold detailing gives it a distinctly classical character. Collectors interested in similar fittings can explore our Damascus Folding Tanto selection for comparable koshirae work.

The saya is crafted from hardwood and finished in natural lacquer, presenting a deep black ground with etched dragon patterns rendered in silver-toned linework. The design wraps continuously around the scabbard body, with the black sageo cord knotted through the kurikata in a traditional tie. The kojiri and koiguchi are fitted in matching black with silver accents, maintaining the monochromatic elegance throughout.

At 1.98 lb and shipping at 3 lb in a 23 x 3 x 3 in package, this tanto is sized for display mounting or shelf presentation. The complete koshirae - blade, handle, tsuba, and dragon saya - arrive as a unified set. Those drawn to folded steel construction in a compact form may also find our Damascus Steel Aikuchi collection worth exploring.