Each country has its own history, culture and art and Japan is no exception. Considered one of the most historical countries in Asia in terms of sabre. Also known as katana, these formidable weapons were used during wartime. After that, these katana antique swords became popular among the samurai because of their efficiency and style. Do you want to have a katana at home? We show how, why and where to buy real katana.
Understand the katana
Sword from Japan, the katana is considered the best sword. It is more than a weapon, it is a history, a culture and a spiritual heritage.
Appeared in Japan between 1185 and 1333 at the time of Kamakura, it can cut quickly and very precisely. It was created in wartime to meet the needs of Japanese warriors who will have to be very fast during battles.
This sword with age becomes a symbol of honor and discipline that highlights the code of ethics of samurai. Given its importance in the arms and collection industry, all stages of its creation are carefully monitored.
Still called the sacred craftsmen, blacksmiths must work hours to infuse each blade with unique characteristics. Some blades of his sabres may as in the past even bear inscriptions or names.
Types of katana
The Japanese sword has been around for centuries and is known for its distinctive blade that allows it to make very precise cuts. Very common, all Katana are not the same although they share the same curved base design. The most common types of katana are:
Uchigatana
The Uchigatana is a type of samurai sword that is characterized by a solid straight handle and its subtly curved blade. These characteristics make it ideal for precise and fast pushing and cutting attacks.
This type of katana was first developed during the Heian period as a weapon of war. Some time later, it became a mythical and popular sword used by samurai warriors during the Sengoku period.
Wakizashi
Considered a small uchigatana, the wakizashi is a sabre whose blade measures between 12 and 24 inches. This sword is used differently according to the situations and can be paired with another wakizashi or uchigatana.
The fighters also use it as a backup weapon in case the longer uchigatana is lost or broken in battle. It is appreciated for the fact that it can be kept in all discretion and without attracting attention.
Tachi
Similar to the uchigatana in some respects, the tachi has a longer and much more curved blade. These characteristics make it more suitable for mounted combat and is not used in close combat.
It is very typical of war where you are required to fight a large number of people at once. The tachi was created during the Heian period and because of its art and efficiency it became popular among samurai warriors during the Kamakura period.
Naginata
Naginata is an ancient weapon in the history of wars in Japan. It appeared around 794 BCE. It consists of a long wooden pole to which is attached a curved blade.
This sword is used by samurai for attacks by cuts or pushes. Type to the war and the battlefields some farmers use them in order to ensure protection on their crop against wild animals.
Authentic Katana Swords: What to look for
To know that a katana is quality and authentic, there are certain features you need to check. First, you need to see if the katana is handmade with traditional materials. An industrial or machine-made sword is not authentic.
You should note that the katana is not only for cutting, but it is a story of tradition and art. This is why it must be forged by hand and with traditional materials such as stainless steel. A quality katana is also characterized by a curved blade.
Also, if it is quality it can make accurate cuts, efficient and fast. One of its main features is the engraved pattern on the blade. If your katana is of quality you will see unique and traditional patterns that are made by professionals.
In addition to this check whether the wrist is of quality. If the wrist is not made carefully with the traditional materials it needs, it can degrade in no time.
You have to see if the groove le bo chi is one on the length of the blade. If not, your sword will be unbalanced and can move in all directions.
How to estimate the value of a Japanese sword?
Estimating the value of a sword can be based on its art of manufacture, rarity and state of preservation.
The quality of the craftsmanship and the reputation of the manufacturer
The first criterion for estimating a katana is the work done by the craftsman.
It should be noted that the making of a katana follows these steps:
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forging,
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folding,
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steel quenching,
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finishing.
Also, the blade must be made of multilayer steel with a harder outer surface. With these features your katana will be flexible and will last over time. Note that the difference in carbon content in steel makes it easier to bend your sword blade.
Regular sharpening and polishing also allows you to get a flaming katana. Apart from these characteristics, it should be noted that some manufacturers are known for their outstanding work.
So the identity of the manufacturer can also contribute to the value of a Japanese sword. The reputation and expertise of Japanese blacksmiths are information you should look for when you need to appraise one of these weapons.
The route and provenance
Did you know that buyers of Japanese katana swords are not looking for the weapon but for history? To estimate the value of a katana before purchase, you need to check the history, path and provenance of the sword.
If the weapon you are looking for belonged to a samurai or a recognized person, you must provide more financial means than if it belonged to a simple warrior.
Indeed, these swords grow in value with time as they become historical and cultural objects of great importance. You also need to see if the katana has a source on and there is no doubt about the origin.
The best places to buy authentic Katana swords
Katana store
Katana Store s is a reference for fans of traditional Japanese katanas and weapons. The katanas of this shop are forged by hand in respect of ancestral traditions.
They are made of high quality steels such as Tamahagane and manganese steel. Whether you are looking for a decorative katana, a functional blade for training or a collector’s item, you will find what is right for you.
We offer a wide range to suit all needs. This shop also offers accessories, supports and equipment for your martial art.
Yokohama Katana Store
The Yokohama Katana Store is one of the largest antique sword galleries in Yokohama and one of the largest sword stores in Tokyo.
It offers several hundred katana, wakisashi and Tanto, whether they are:
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ancient,
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contemporaries,
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new.
Located in the heart of Yokohama Port, it is easily accessible online and offers opportunities for katana enthusiasts.
How to choose a katana? Our tip
There are a number of things to consider when choosing a katana. A high-quality katana can last for generations if properly maintained.
Define your use
Before you buy a katana, it is mandatory to determine the reason for this acquisition. Generally there are three reasons : decoration, training and cutting practice.
It should be noted that an ornamental katana is often made of less resistant materials and is not suitable for cutting.
While for martial arts training, the iai-tō, a non-sharp katana, is what you need.
And then, if you want to do the cutting practice, opt for a forged katana in carbon steel or Tamahagane, with precise sharpening.
Choose the right steel and manufacturing
The type of steel determines the strength and flexibility of the katana:
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Carbon steel (1045, 1060, 1095): Good value for money, suitable for drive and cut.
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Damask steel: Beautiful appearance with wavy patterns, but often more decorative.
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Tamahagane: Traditional Japanese steel, extremely resistant and used for high-end katanas.
A good katana must be forged by hand, with a blade in full silk to ensure strength and balance. The tsuka must be wrapped in samegawa for optimal grip.
Take into account the budget and authenticity
An authentic katana usually costs between 200 and 2000 €, depending on the quality and craftsmanship. Avoid cheap models, often fragile. It is worth noting that if your katana is an antique and comes from a popular family, the price may go up. And this type of sword is not used just like any other. It is placed either in a museum or in its collection.
Buying a Japanese sword online: Tips and precautions
Buying katana online has its advantages and also its disadvantages. To avoid seeing the scam limited, you must take certain precautions that are:
Do not buy in any shop
When you have to choose the online shop to buy katana, it is better to opt for one that you already know by fame. You can go to a shop that you have already tested and sells katanas. Check if the general terms and conditions of sale are accessible.
Also check if the physical address of the katana shop is indicated with a contact such as:
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phone number
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email.
It should be noted that if you do not find a shop that is very clear on these points, contact them by phone or email. So you can be sure if they have a shop or that they actually have the katana.
In addition, you can search the internet with the name of the shop or ask for community feedback in the forums. Also search social media for “the name of the store and reviews” so you can see what people are saying about the store.
We recommend that you take the time to read the comments, katana availability, delivery time and related services offered.
Also check the
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the reality of promotion,
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reputation of the seller,
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reliability of the site;
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possible risk of infringement.
Discussing by e-mail and having a telephone conversation sometimes helps to settle the dispute amicably, especially if the katana company is concerned about its brand image.
Check the site’s security
For your safety, when you want to buy a katana on the internet, you have to be careful. You must only enter your credit card number on a secure page.
This is how your number is protected and does not fall into the wrong hands. Secure katana sales pages are recognized by the S of HTTPS displayed at the beginning of the address and by the padlock in the address bar.
You can also activate your VPN if you have ever subscribed to such a service. Also never give your credit card number on a simple form.
Use an alternative payment method
If you visit a katana site, you will see that they offer payment methods in addition to credit card. It can for example propose Paypal. This payment method saves you from providing your card number.
Note that bank transfer can also be an interesting alternative to buy your katana online. The seller usually asks to write down a reference to find the transaction. Also it should be noted that the validation of the order is longer for a bank transfer than when paying by card.
For more security and privacy, you can opt for a payment by crypto. With crypto, you are sure not to be hacked and you do not enter your information.
Maintenance of your katana sabre
Once you know the conditions and precautions to take when buying your Katana online, it’s time to know how to maintain them.
First of all, it is worth noting that a katana does not clean like a common knife. To do this, you must first use a microfiber cloth that will allow you to remove the oil on your blade.
You must make sure that the fabric makes the return of the big Tsuba towards the point Kissaki. Slowly slide the cloth by thoroughly regular cleaning the back of your blade from above.
Be careful not to cut your fingers off. Once the old oil is removed, you just have to use the uchiko to tap slightly and leave powder along the blade. It should be noted that the sound that your tear emits when you tap it and according to your katana.
So don’t be shocked to see that you have two swords but the sounds are not the same. To polish your blade and remove the powder, you must use the cloth and in the same directions as if you are removing the oil from the blade. Finally, you should apply another oil along each side of the blade with a very soft brush.
The oil must be spread finely and evenly without excess. You must also be careful not to touch the blade without putting it back in its saya sheath. After that you just have to clean your microfiber cloth with soapy water.
What is the difference between a katana and an ordinary sword?
The katana is different from other swords in many ways, including its design, use and historical and cultural aspects.
The shape and the blade
The katana has a curved single-edged blade, usually measuring between 60 and 80 cm and can even exceed depending on the manufacturer. Its curvature facilitates quick and precise cuts. They are considered formidable weapons in combat.
However, ordinary swords, like European swords, can be either straight or slightly curved. The use of these sabres is suitable for fencing or mounted charges.
The technicality in manufacturing
Traditional katanas are forged using ancestral Japanese techniques, including Tamahagane. The latter is a high quality steel subjected to a bending and quenching process that only experts know.
This process allows the manufacturer to obtain a blade that is both sharp and resistant. Unlike the katana, western swords are often made of hardened steel. And these do not necessarily have to follow a process as refined as that of the katana.
Care and use
The katana is designed for two hands use thanks to its long tsuka. This two hands use allows smooth and powerful movements. While many western swords are suitable for a one-handed grip. This makes them more maneuverable for duels or mounted combat.
History and heritage
Beyond its martial effectiveness, the katana is a symbol of samurai honor and Japanese tradition. Western swords, although symbolic for some armies, do not have the same spiritual and philosophical aura as the katana.
