Dragonfly Katana, Cold Steel, 1060 Steel, 88DK
Are you looking for a katana that isn't just a fragile copy of a museum piece, but one built for the modern, stronger warrior? The Dragonfly Katana (88DK) by Cold Steel is exactly that. It was designed with today's users in mind, who are often taller and stronger than the samurai of feudal Japan. The result is a sword with a thicker (8 mm), wider, and heavier blade for maximum cutting power. Its distinctive look is defined by the teal-green silk cord wrap on the handle, which elegantly contrasts with the black rayskin (samé). The iron furniture features dragonfly (tonbo) motifs, a Japanese symbol of courage. Furthermore, the katana comes with two bags—a practical cotton bag and a luxurious brocade bag. Further product information ...
Dragonfly Katana, Cold Steel, 1060 Steel, 88DK
While many historical swords were designed for men barely five and a half feet tall, Cold Steel's Dragonfly Series changes this philosophy. It is built for those who demand a robust, reliable, and fully functional weapon that is ready for demanding test cutting (tameshigiri).
Sword Details
Blade (Nagasa)
The blade is the heart of this katana. It is hand-forged and polished from 1060 high-carbon steel, which is known for its excellent balance of hardness and toughness. The blade is not only thicker but also features a deep curve (sori) and a long "iris leaf point," giving it devastating cutting potential.
Mountings (Koshirae)
- Handle (Tsuka): The wooden core is covered with genuine black rayskin (samé) and tightly wrapped with a striking teal-green silk cord (tsuka-ito). Beneath the wrap are brass menuki (ornaments) in the shape of a dragonfly.
- Fittings (Tsuba, Fuchi, Kashira): All guard elements are made from richly decorated iron with a dragonfly motif.
- Scabbard (Saya): The wooden scabbard is coated with a traditional, high-gloss black lacquer.
Accessories
This sword comes with two protective bags:
- A blue cotton travel bag for regular transport and storage.
- A beautiful, decorative display bag made from the finest heavy silk brocade.
Specifications
| Blade Material | 1060 high-carbon steel |
| Overall Length | approx. 103.5 cm |
| Blade Length | approx. 74.3 cm |
| Blade Thickness | approx. 8 mm |
| Handle Length | approx. 29.2 cm |
| Handle Material | Rayskin (samé) w/ teal-green silk cord wrap & brass Menuki |
| Weight | approx. 1117 g |
| Scabbard | Black lacquered wood |
| Cold Steel® Product No. | 88DK |
Safe Use Guidelines
Although this sword is a masterpiece, it is a fully functional, extremely sharp, and dangerous weapon. It is not a toy.
WARNING: Sharp Sword – This is not a toy!
- Always handle the sword with the utmost caution and respect. It is sharpened to a high degree and can cause severe or fatal injury.
- Not intended for stage combat or contact sparring with other swords. The 1060 steel blade, while tough, is not designed for steel-on-steel impact and could be damaged.
- The sword is intended for collectors, kata (forms) practice, and test cutting (tameshigiri) on appropriate soft materials (e.g., tatami mats).
- Never cut at hard objects (wood, bone, metal).
- Keep the sword out of the reach of children and unauthorised persons. Use is strictly at your own risk.
Sword Care
The 1060 high-carbon steel blade is not stainless. To maintain its beauty and prevent rust, it requires care. After every use (even after simple handling), wipe the blade clean with a soft cloth (like nugui-gami rice paper) and apply a thin coat of conservation oil, ideally Choji oil or Hanwei Sword Oil. Store the sword in a dry environment. For complete care, we recommend the Japanese Sword Maintenance Kit (OH2105).
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