Katana Giyu Tomioka ballpoint pen

Decorative Die-Cast Metal Katana Ballpoint Pen Giyu Tomioka

Design and Historical Context

Although this item is primarily a modern writing instrument inspired by Japanese pop culture, its morphology and individual proportions faithfully follow a real historical Japanese sword, the katana. The handle, known in traditional Japanese terminology as the tsuka, masterfully imitates the traditional wrapping (tsuka-ito) in pure white, under which dark diamond-shaped details shine through. The handle is finished with a reddish-brown pommel called the kashira. The handle is separated from the main body of the pen, which visually represents the sword's blade, by a massive reddish-brown guard, the tsuba, which is characterised by its distinctive hexagonal shape. The scabbard of the sword, traditionally called the saya, serves as an elegant and robust cap for the pen in this model. Its glossy surface is finished in a deep black colour decorated with white Japanese characters (kanji). The scabbard is also finished with brass-gold coloured metal fittings (kojiri).

Usage and Safety Warnings

This ballpoint pen is fully disassemblable and its use is absolutely intuitive. To begin writing, simply pull the body of the pen out of the scabbard (saya) with a smooth, gentle pull. Once you have finished writing, the pen is simply pushed back in, perfectly protecting the sensitive ballpoint nib from drying out and preventing unwanted mechanical damage. The package includes a practical black plastic display stand (kake). You can use it to display the pen horizontally, beautifully imitating the historical method of storing real samurai swords in the residences of the Japanese nobility.

As this is a miniature replica of a weapon equipped with a sharp writing tip, it is essential to observe basic safety rules. This product is absolutely not intended for practical fencing practice, contact combat, or cutting tests (tameshigiri). It is purely a decorative, collector's, and office item. For safety reasons, never fence with the pen or point the nib at the face or other vulnerable parts of the body, as this could result in an unpleasant injury. Improper, rough handling or attempting to bend the casting carries the risk of irreversibly damaging the writing mechanism or snapping the entire pen.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure this collector's piece brings you joy for as long as possible, primarily protect it from falling onto hard floors. Although the zinc alloy die-casting seems sturdy, it can break under heavy impact, and unsightly chipping of the surface lacquer could occur. For routine maintenance, simply wiping the surface of the pen occasionally with a dry, soft microfibre cloth is perfectly sufficient. Avoid using aggressive chemical solvents or cleaners, as these could damage the paint and lettering. When replacing the ink refill, proceed with the utmost care so as not to strip the fine internal thread.

Technical Parameters