Bushido Wakizashi, Hanwei, SH1211, Folded K120C Steel
If you are seeking a weapon that is more than just steel, but an embodiment of honour and tradition, the Bushido Wakizashi (SH1211) by Hanwei is a masterpiece that will speak to you. "Bushido", or the "Way of the Warrior", is the code of conduct followed by the Samurai, and this sword is designed to honour and perpetuate that tradition. Its heart is a hand-forged and folded blade made from premium K120C powder steel, guaranteeing exceptional sharpness, durability, and a beautiful steel grain (hada). Every detail of the mountings (koshirae) is a work of art – from the deeply lacquered scabbard with brass sakura blossoms to the stunning iron tsuba with bronze, gold, and silver detailing, depicting a dramatic battle scene. This is not just a sword; it is a legacy. Further product information ...
Bushido Wakizashi, Hanwei, SH1211, Folded K120C Steel
This wakizashi is a fully functional, extremely sharp weapon, intended for collectors and experienced martial arts practitioners. The blade, with its chu-kissaki (medium length) tip, is ideal for precise cuts. Historically, the wakizashi was the samurai's companion sword, forming the daishō set with the katana. It was often worn indoors where the long katana was impractical, and it also served for ritual purposes.
Detailed Koshirae (Fittings)
- Blade: Hand-forged and folded from K120C powder steel. This process not only creates a beautiful grain (hada) but also ensures high steel purity, excellent edge retention, and toughness.
- Tsuka (Handle): Covered with high-quality, genuine ray skin (samegawa).
- Tsuka-ito and Sageo: The handle wrap (ito) and the scabbard cord (sageo) are woven from premium Japanese cotton in an elegant brown colour.
- Tsuba (Guard): The artistic centrepiece. Crafted from blackened and bronzed iron, intricately detailed with a battle scene featuring horsemen and foot samurai. The details are highlighted with gold and silver.
- Fuchi and Kashira (Collar and Pommel): Made from blackened bronze with subtle brass detailing.
- Saya (Scabbard): Wooden, with a deep brown lacquer, inlaid with delicate brass cherry blossoms (sakura).
- Saya Fittings: The kojiri (end cap), koiguchi (mouth), and kurikata (knob for sageo) are made of polished buffalo horn, signifying traditional, high-quality craftsmanship.
- Habaki (Blade Collar): Constructed from a single piece of solid brass.
Specifications
| Blade Material | Hand-forged and folded K120C powder steel |
| Overall Length | approx. 63.5 cm (25") |
| Blade Length | approx. 47 cm (18.5") |
| Handle Length | approx. 14 cm (5.5") |
| Weight | approx. 737 g (1 lb 10 oz) |
| Point of Balance (POB) | approx. 10.2 cm (4") from guard |
| Blade Width at Guard | approx. 2.7 cm (1.06") |
| Blade Width at Tip | approx. 1.9 cm (0.75") |
| Blade Thickness at Guard | approx. 6 mm (0.24") |
| Blade Thickness at Tip | approx. 5 mm (0.20") |
| Manufacturer's Product No. | SH1211 |
Specifications may vary slightly from piece to piece due to the handmade nature.
Safe Use Guidelines
This wakizashi is a high-end collector's item and a functional weapon. The blade is extremely sharp (razor-honed) and must be handled with the utmost caution. It is not a toy.
WARNING: Sharp Sword – This is not a toy!
- Always handle the sword with maximum caution and respect. It can cause severe or fatal injury.
- This sword is not intended for stage combat, contact sparring, or striking against other swords or hard objects. While folded steel is resilient, the edge can be damaged (chipped) upon impact with steel.
- The sword is designed for kata (forms) practice and for test cutting (tameshigiri) on appropriate soft materials (e.g., tatami omote mats) performed only under the supervision of an experienced instructor.
- Keep the sword securely stored and out of the reach of children and unauthorised persons.
- Use is strictly at your own risk. Neither the seller nor the manufacturer is liable for damages or injuries caused by improper use.
Sword Care
The blade, made from high-carbon K120C folded steel, is susceptible to rust. To maintain its beauty and function, regular maintenance is essential.
- After every use, and even after every touch with a bare hand, wipe the blade immediately with a clean, soft cloth (ideally nugui-gami rice paper) to remove moisture and fingerprints.
- Subsequently, apply a very thin layer of sword oil (e.g., Choji or Hanwei oil) to the blade for protection.
- Store the sword in a dry place, ideally horizontally with the edge facing up, to avoid pressure on the edge within the saya.
- Don'ts: Do not leave the sword in a damp environment. Never cut at hard materials. Do not clean the blade with abrasive pastes or scouring pads.
Companion Products
This wakizashi is part of the prestigious "Bushido" collection. To create the complete daishō set, we recommend purchasing the matching Bushido Katana (SH1210). The collection is also complemented by the Bushido Tanto (SH1212). For perfect care, don't forget to get a Japanese Sword Maintenance Kit (OH2105).
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