"Black Wood" Katana

"Black Wood" Katana – Decorative Samurai Sword by Marto

Dark Beauty and Detailed Craftsmanship

At first glance, you will notice the handle (tsuka), which is lined with light faux rayskin and tightly wrapped in black cotton cord (tsuka-ito). This traditional wrapping ensures an authentic look and a secure grip. The real jewel, however, is the circular guard (tsuba). It is adorned with detailed relief depicting traditional Japanese motifs (figures in a landscape), adding artistic value to the sword.

The blade is crafted from high-quality X30Cr13 (AISI 440) stainless steel and hardened to 48–52 HRC. Marto prioritizes aesthetics, which is why you will find a Hamon line on the edge. To be fair, this line is not created by traditional clay tempering but is mechanically produced. However, the result is very effective and authentic-looking. The scabbard (saya) is made of lacquered aluminum with a black finish. Aluminum is a practical choice—unlike wood, it does not warp due to humidity and is more durable, yet visually it perfectly mimics a classic black lacquered wooden scabbard.

Historical Context: Weapon and Symbol

The katana became the primary sword of the samurai during the Muromachi and Edo periods. Worn edge-up through the belt (obi), it allowed the warrior to draw and strike in a single motion. It was the symbol of the samurai's soul, honour, and social status. Black (Kuro) was a popular colour in Japanese armouring tradition for its seriousness and ability to conceal the weapon in the shadows.

Usage and Safety Warning

Please bear in mind that this katana is strictly a decorative item.

• Not for Combat: The stainless steel blade is hard and rust-resistant, but more brittle than carbon steel. Striking hard objects carries a risk of the blade snapping.
• Not for Cutting (Tameshigiri): The hilt construction is not designed to absorb the shock of impact against targets.
• Handling: The blade has a sharp point and factory edge geometry. Exercise caution when handling to prevent injury.

Maintenance

Thanks to the stainless steel construction, maintenance is minimal. Simply wipe the blade occasionally with a dry, soft cloth to remove fingerprints (sweat is acidic and can leave marks). The scabbard just needs dusting. Avoid using abrasive pastes that could damage the Hamon finish.

Specifications

Note: Dimensions and weight may vary slightly due to the hand-finished nature of the product.