Sharp John Lee "Nôh" Katana | Hand-Forged Samurai Sword in 1045 Steel

Sharp John Lee "Nôh" Katana | Hand-Forged Samurai Sword in 1045 Steel

Versatile Uses for Your Sword

This Japanese sword is more than just an object—it's a gateway to the world of Japanese history and martial arts. You can use it in several ways:

• As a Collector's Item: With its high-quality craftsmanship and certificate of authenticity, this katana will become the pride of your collection.
• As a Stunning Display Piece: Whether mounted on a wall or placed on a stand, this sword is an instant conversation starter that adds a touch of elegance and strength to any room.
• For Martial Arts Training: The full-tang construction, secured with two bamboo pegs (mekugi), allows the sword to be fully disassembled. It is well-suited for practicing forms (kata) in disciplines such as Iaido.
• As the Perfect Costume Accessory: Planning to attend an event as a samurai? This authentic katana will make your cosplay or historical costume truly complete.

The Katana in History

The Soul of the Samurai

The katana was more than a weapon; it was considered "the soul of the samurai." It was carried as a symbol of their status, honour, and devotion. This sword's blade geometry, the Shinogi-Zukuri style, is the most common and historically proven blade shape, prized for its excellent balance of durability and cutting ability.

A Special Feature: The Art of Noh Theatre

This sword's tsuba (handguard) is decorated with scenes from Noh theatre. This is no coincidence. Noh is one of the oldest extant forms of traditional Japanese theatre, originating in the 13th century. The samurai, including the highest-ranking shoguns, were its greatest patrons. They not only financed plays but many also learned to sing and dance themselves. Owning this sword symbolically connects you not only to the warrior aspect but also to the refined, cultural side of samurai life.

Detailed Specifications

• Blade Style: Shinogi-Zukuri with Fuller (Bo-Hi)
• Blade Steel: Hand-forged 1045 Carbon Steel
• Blade Length: 73 cm (28.7 inches)
• Handle Length (Tsuka): 26.5 cm (10.4 inches)
• Overall Length (without scabbard): 100 cm (39.4 inches)
• Weight (without scabbard): 1100 g (2.4 lbs)
• Handle Material: Wooden core, genuine ray skin (samegawa), red cotton wrap (ito) in the Hineri-Maki style
• Scabbard (Saya): Wood, finished in a high-gloss Cha Urumi style (red lacquer with visible wood grain)
• Construction: Full tang, fully disassemblable, secured with two bamboo pegs (mekugi)
• Fittings (Koshirae): All fittings (Tsuba, Fuchi, Menuki, Kashira) are made of metal; the blade collar (Habaki) and spacers (Seppa) are brass.
• Included Accessories: A protective cloth bag, an attractive collector's box, a John Lee seal, and a certificate of authenticity.

How to Care for Your Katana

To ensure your katana retains its beauty and function for years to come, follow these simple care instructions:

1. Never touch the blade with your bare hands. Oils and acids from your skin can cause corrosion.
2. After each use (even just handling), carefully wipe the blade with a clean, soft cloth (like microfibre).
3. Apply a thin layer of sword oil (such as Choji oil) to the blade to protect it from moisture and rust.
4. Store the sword in a dry environment, ideally within its scabbard.

Essential Safety Guidelines

Always remember that this is a sharp, functional weapon, not a toy. Treat it with the utmost respect and caution.

• Always be aware of your surroundings. Ensure you have ample space and that no people or animals are nearby.
• Never point the sword at anyone, not even in jest.
• Be especially careful when drawing the sword from and returning it to the scabbard to avoid injury and scratching the lacquer.
• Keep the sword out of the reach of children.