Shikoto Hammer-Forged Longquan Master Teal Katana, 1060 Steel, UC3237
1xWhen you hold this sword, you are holding the same type of weapon a warrior might have wielded 2,500 years ago. The Shikoto Hammer-Forged Longquan Master Teal Katana (UC3237) is a tribute to ancient Bronze Age forging techniques. Each piece is free-form hammer-forged and clay-hardened to create a genuine hamon line. The heart of the sword is its 1060 carbon steel blade, which is differentially hardened to have a razor-sharp edge and a softer, flexible spine. This is not just a replica; it is a functional work of art. The solid brass fittings and the striking teal-coloured cord wrap make it a collector's showpiece. Each sword includes a certificate of authenticity signed by the master smith. Further product information ...
Shikoto Hammer-Forged Longquan Master Teal Katana, 1060 Steel, UC3237
Longquan Forging Artistry
This katana is crafted using forging methods that have been employed in China since the Bronze Age. The 1060 carbon steel blade is free-form hammer-forged and then undergoes the traditional clay-hardening process. This technique, known as differential tempering, creates two distinct zones in one blade:
- An extremely hard edge (Ha), which guarantees exceptional cutting performance.
- A softer, more flexible spine (Mune), which can absorb impacts and prevents the blade from breaking.
The result is a clearly visible and authentic hardening line (hamon), which serves as proof of this meticulous process.
Detailed Mountings (Koshirae)
- Handle (Tsuka): The wooden core is covered with genuine ray skin (Samegawa), which has been specially tea-stained to achieve a unique hue. It is traditionally wrapped with a striking teal-coloured cotton cord (Tsuka-ito).
- Fittings (Tsuba, Fuchi, Kashira): All fittings are crafted from solid brass. The tsuba (guard) features a classic mokko gata (four-lobed) shape and is adorned with a two-sword motif.
- Menuki: Beneath the wrap, golden ornaments (menuki) are visible, matching the theme of the fittings.
- Scabbard (Saya): It is made of wood that has been polished and coated with a high-gloss black lacquer. A matching teal sageo cord, colour-coordinated with the handle, is included.
Certificate of Authenticity
With every Shikoto Longquan Master katana, you will receive a Certificate of Authenticity detailing the technical aspects of the forging process. Each certificate is personally signed by the master smith who crafted the blade.
Specifications
| Blade Material | 1060 Carbon Steel |
| Overall Length | approx. 100.3 cm (39.5") |
| Blade Length | approx. 69.2 cm (27.25") |
| Handle Length | approx. 31.1 cm (12.25") |
| Weight | approx. 1820 g (approx. 4.0 lbs) (Note: this is a very robust and heavy sword) |
| Scabbard | Black lacquered wood |
| Manufacturer's Product No. | UC3237 |
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 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 1060 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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