Practical Pro Katana, Hanwei, SH2162, 1566 Steel, Kuruma Tsuba
Are you looking for a real "workhorse" and not just a fragile wall-hanger? The Practical Pro Katana (SH2162) by Hanwei is exactly that—a weapon built for performance. It was designed with the modern, more physically formidable warrior and martial artist in mind. It stands apart from other katanas with three key features: it has a longer and thicker blade (up to 9 mm at the guard!), an extra-extended handle (Tsuka) at 38 cm for maximum leverage, and it's forged from legendary 1566 steel. The blade is, of course, differentially hardened and has amazing cutting power. This is a fully functional tool for tameshigiri (test cutting) that combines raw power with the elegant symbolism of the Kuruma Tsuba. Further product information ...
Practical Pro Katana, Hanwei, SH2162, 1566 Steel, Kuruma Tsuba
This katana is designed for serious practice. Its robust construction and 1350 g weight make it ideal for developing power and cutting technique. It is not a lightweight "dancer's" sword, but an honest tool that demands respect and skill.
Sword Details
Blade (Nagasa)
The blade is forged from 1566 high-carbon steel, renowned for its excellent combination of toughness and edge-holding capability. It is hand-forged and hardened using the traditional clay-coating method. This results in a differentially hardened blade—an extremely hard edge for cutting and a softer, more resilient spine to absorb shock. Careful polishing reveals a beautiful and distinct hamon (temper line). Its 9 mm thickness at the habaki makes it one of the most robust blades in its class.
Mountings (Koshirae)
- Handle (Tsuka): The extremely long (38.1 cm) handle allows for a secure two-handed grip even for users with large hands, or provides extraordinary leverage for a cut. The wrap (Tsuka-Ito) is made of grippy synthetic leather, which is very durable and provides an excellent grip even with sweaty hands, true to its "Practical" name. The handle is securely fastened to the tang (nakago) with two Mekugi pins.
- Guard (Tsuba): A special feature is the round Kuruma-Tsuba. It depicts the "Dharmachakra" (Wheel of Dharma), which symbolizes the Noble Eightfold Path to enlightenment in Buddhism.
- Scabbard (Saya): It is made of wood and coated with a traditional black high-gloss lacquer. It is complemented by a black cotton Sageo (cord).
Specifications
| Blade Material | 1566 High-Carbon Steel |
| Overall Length | approx. 116.2 cm (45.75") |
| Blade Length | approx. 74.9 cm (29.5") |
| Handle Length | approx. 38.1 cm (15") |
| Weight | approx. 1350 g (2 lbs 15.5 oz) |
| Blade Thickness (at guard) | approx. 9 mm (0.35") |
| Manufacturer's Product No. | SH2162 |
Please note: Specifications may vary slightly from piece to piece due to handmade construction.
Safe Use Guidelines
This katana is fully functional and extremely sharp. It is designed for tameshigiri (test cutting) and is not a toy.
WARNING: Sharp Sword – This is not a toy!
- Always handle the sword with the utmost caution and respect. It is razor-sharp and can cause severe or fatal injury.
- Not intended for stage combat or blade-on-blade contact. The differentially hardened blade is hard but brittle, and the edge can chip or break on impact with steel.
- 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 1566 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).
Companion Products
This katana is part of the "Practical" series. To complete your collection, we recommend the Practical Wakizashi (SH2061) and the Practical Tanto (SH20T).
We are here for you!