Sharp Samurai Wakizashi Dark Dragon

Sharp Samurai Wakizashi Dark Dragon in Traditional Shinogi-Zukuri Style

Historical Context and Symbolism of the Wakizashi

The wakizashi was the traditional companion sword of the Japanese samurai, forming an inseparable pair called the daisho alongside the longer katana. While the katana had to be left at the door when entering a house, the samurai was allowed to keep the wakizashi with him as personal defence at all times. It was also frequently used for the ritual suicide known as seppuku. This specific model pays tribute to Japanese mythology. The guard (tsuba) is masterfully shaped into a dragon that encircles the blade. The decoration is dark annealed, which gives it an ancient patina. Other metal elements of the handle, such as the collar (fuchi), the pommel (kashira), and the ornaments beneath the wrap (menuki), also bear motifs of mythical creatures in a dark finish.

Construction and Craftsmanship of the Sword

The blade of this wakizashi is forged in the very popular and historically accurate Shinogi-Zukuri style. It has been hand-forged from 1045 carbon steel and features a longitudinal groove (bo-hi), which lightens the weapon and produces a characteristic whistling sound upon a correct swing. To achieve an authentic look, the blade is finished with an artificial temper line, a so-called faux hamon, created by cross-brushing. Absolutely no plastic substitutes were used in the manufacture of this sword. The traditional handle is covered with genuine ray skin (samegawa) and tightly wrapped with black cotton ribbon in the classic Hineri Maki style. The blade transitions into a long tang, which is securely fastened within the handle by two bamboo pegs (mekugi). The high-gloss black scabbard (saya) is made of wood and lacquered in the elegant Kuroro style. Furthermore, the sword is supplied in a protective cloth bag nestled within an attractive collector's box, complete with a seal and certificate of authenticity.

Principles of Safe Use and Warnings

Strong Warning: The blade of this sword is sharply ground. Improper handling can lead to severe or even fatal injuries. The use of this sword is strictly at your own risk. Although the weapon is made of carbon steel, it is not explicitly specified in the source materials as a weapon intended for heavy cutting tests (tameshigiri) or full-contact combat. Therefore, for safety reasons, we strongly advise against using this product for contact fencing, man-to-man duels, or practising hard blade-on-blade impacts. This is a decorative product and collector's item, or at most a tool for non-contact solo practice of forms (kata). Keep the weapon completely out of reach of children and unauthorised persons.

Samurai swords warranty

Sword Maintenance

To ensure your wakizashi brings you joy for a long time, it requires regular maintenance. Unprotected 1045 carbon steel is susceptible to rust. We recommend cleaning the blade of moisture and fingerprints after every touch or drawing from the scabbard, gently powdering it with traditional uchiko powder, and subsequently treating it with a thin layer of clove oil (choji oil). The wooden scabbard only needs to be wiped with a dry, soft cloth to maintain its high gloss.

For the perfect display of this jewel in your living room or study, we recommend purchasing a traditional wooden sword stand (kake) and a Japanese sword cleaning kit, which together with this product form a perfect collector's set.

Care and Maintenance of Samurai Swords and Japanese Swords

Table of Technical Parameters