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Katana blog

Stories, craftsmanship, and the spirit behind every sword.
Dive into the world of handcrafted swords, samurai traditions, and the craftsmanship that shapes every blade.

Guide to katana terms and meanings
13 min read
Guide to katana terms and meanings

Samurai sword glossary: categorized terms and definitions This glossary introduces key terms used in the world of Japanese swords, categorized for easier understanding. From blade geometry to tang...

The tsuka: design, function, and artistry of the katana handle
3 min read
The tsuka: design, function, and artistry of the katana handle

Discover the tsuka, or handle, of the Japanese sword. Learn how its design, materials, and wrapping styles balance functionality, comfort, and artistic expression.

The beauty and structure of the katana hamon (blade temper line)
3 min read
The beauty and structure of the katana hamon (blade temper line)

Discover the artistry and science behind the hamon, the wave-like temper line found on traditional Japanese swords. Learn how it forms during quenching, the meaning of different styles like choji a...

Common flaws in Japanese swords: understanding imperfections in the katana
3 min read
Common flaws in Japanese swords: understanding imperfections in the katana

Due to their complex forging process, exposure to battle damage, and centuries of aging, samurai swords often exhibit a variety of flaws. While minor defects that do not affect performance are usu...

The mysteries of nioi and nie in katanas
3 min read
The mysteries of nioi and nie in katanas

Discover how the quenching process creates the stunning beauty of nioi and nie in Japanese swords. Learn about rare features like sunagashi, kinsuji, utsuri, and the hidden secrets of traditional f...

The art of polishing katanas
4 min read
The art of polishing katanas

Discover the intricate craftsmanship behind Japanese sword polishing and tameshigiri test cutting. Learn how master polishers reveal the hamon’s hidden beauty.

The art of smelting tamahagane: the heart of the Japanese sword
3 min read
The art of smelting tamahagane: the heart of the Japanese sword

Tamahagane, the legendary steel behind authentic Japanese katanas, is forged through a centuries-old tradition using iron sand and charcoal. Discover the intricate smelting process inside the ancie...

What does quenching do to a katana?
3 min read
What does quenching do to a katana?

Once the blade is formed, the quenching process begins to achieve a sharp and hardened edge, during which the pattern on the blade surface is created. The efforts involved in this phase are more co...

Katana Tsuka (Handle/Hilt)
2 min read
What is a tsuba? katana handle/hilt

The tsuka, or handle of a sword, plays a vital role in its functionality and aesthetics. A well-designed handle must offer a comfortable grip, ensuring that it is neither too thick nor too thin. Th...