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Bushido Tonbo (Dragonfly) Katana, Folded Steel, Simulated Hamon
In Japan, the dragonfly (Tombo) is a revered symbol of courage, strength, luck, and the determination to never retreat. This Bushido Tonbo Katana (MT-501876) reflects this "victorious insect" in every detail. It's not just its beautiful design that captivates. The blade is hand-forged and **pattern-welded (Damascus)**, giving it a unique grain (hada). The entire mounting (Koshirae)—from the guard (tsuba) to the pommel (kashira)—is crafted from **brass with an antique finish** and features dragonfly motifs. The handle is covered in **genuine rayskin** and traditionally wrapped. However, this sword is primarily intended for decorative purposes or forms practice (kata). It features a **simulated hamon** and a softer, tough blade (approx. 40-45 HRC) that is not designed for contact sparring or test cutting. Further product information ...
Bushido Tonbo (Dragonfly) Katana, Folded Steel, Simulated Hamon
⛩️ Symbolism of the Dragonfly (Tombo)
The dragonfly was sacred to the samurai. Its Japanese nickname kachi-mushi means "victory insect." This is because the insect only flies forward and never backwards, perfectly reflecting the attitude of a warrior. Japan itself was once known as Akitsushima, the "Isle of Dragonflies." Having this symbol on a weapon or armour was believed to bring the wearer strength, protection, and indomitable will.
Blade: Folded Steel with Simulated Hamon
The blade is hand-forged and pattern-welded from carbon steel in the legendary sword-making region of Longquan. This process gives it a characteristic and beautiful Damascus pattern (hada). It is important to note that this blade is not differentially hardened. Its hardness is consistent throughout the profile, at approximately 40-45 HRC (and approx. 35 HRC at the guard). This makes it a tough and resilient blade, but one that is softer than blades designed for cutting.
The temper line (hamon) is simulated—masterfully applied by an artisan to achieve an authentic look. The blade is factory-honed (it will pass the paper-cut test).
Mountings (Koshirae) in the Sign of the Dragonfly
All fittings are crafted from brass and given an antiqued finish for historical authenticity.
- Tsuba, Fuchi, and Kashira: The guard (tsuba), collar (fuchi), and pommel (kashira) are adorned with detailed reliefs of dragonflies.
- Handle (Tsuka): The wooden core is covered with genuine white rayskin (Samegawa) and tightly wrapped with a black cotton cord (Tsuka-ito) in the traditional style.
- Scabbard (Saya): The wooden scabbard has a unique, "striking flat, mottled copper coloured finish." It is complemented by a black and tan Sageo cord.
Specifications
| Blade Material | Folded Carbon Steel |
| Blade Hardness | approx. 40-45 HRC (approx. 35 HRC at guard) |
| Overall Length | approx. 102.9 cm (40.5") |
| Blade Length | approx. 72.1 cm (28 3/8") |
| Handle Length | approx. 30.8 cm (12.1") (calculated) |
| Weight | approx. 1015 g (2 lbs 3.8 oz) |
| Scabbard | Wood, mottled copper finish |
Important Notice: Sword Classification
Although the blade is sharp, due to the softer steel (40-45 HRC) and simulated hamon (it is not differentially hardened), this sword is not intended for practical use such as test cutting (tameshigiri) or contact sparring.
This is a Class C product according to our battle-ready classification. This is a product without warranty.
You can find out more in our article: Classification of Battle-Ready Weapons.
It is primarily a collector's and decorative item, or suitable for non-contact kata (forms practice).
Sword Care
The folded 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. Store the sword in a dry environment. For complete care, we recommend the Japanese Sword Maintenance Kit (OH2105).
Package Includes
- Katana with Scabbard
- Cotton storage bag
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