Fujisan Katana by John Lee
Are you looking for a sword that combines the beauty of traditional craftsmanship with the spiritual symbolism of the Land of the Rising Sun? The Fujisan Katana by John Lee is a masterpiece paying homage to Japan's highest peak. Featuring a folded steel blade and precise ornamentation, this sword is the ideal choice for discerning collectors and martial artists who appreciate a functional weapon with a soul. Further product information ...
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Fujisan Katana by John Lee – Sharp Folded Steel Samurai Sword
Usage and Functionality
This sword is not merely a decorative item but a fully functional weapon. Here is how you can use it:
- Practising Forms (Kata): Thanks to the fuller groove (Bo-Hi), the blade is well-balanced and produces a characteristic audible swoosh (Tachi-Kaze) upon a correct cut, helping you refine your technique.
- Light Cutting Tests (Tameshigiri): The 1045 carbon steel blade is sharp and suitable for cutting soft targets (tatami mats, plastic bottles). Note: The sword is not designed for cutting hard objects (wood, bamboo) as this could damage the edge.
- Collecting: The unique pattern of the folded steel and the themed fittings make this katana a centrepiece of any collection.
Forging Art and Symbolism
The name Fujisan refers to Mount Fuji, the sacred symbol of Japan. This motif is reflected in the intricately detailed guard (Tsuba). The blade is hand-forged from 1045 carbon steel and has been folded twelve times during the manufacturing process. This creates approximately 8000 layers of steel, resulting in a beautiful Damascus pattern (Hada) on the surface. This process not only enhances aesthetic value but historically served to homogenise the material.
Construction and Materials
The construction of the sword is based on historical examples:
- Handle (Tsuka): The wooden core is covered with real ray skin (Samegawa) and tightly wrapped with black cotton cord (Tsuka-Ito).
- Assembly: The blade tang is extra long and secured in the handle with two bamboo pegs (Mekugi), ensuring safety and stability during handling. This allows the sword to be completely disassembled.
- Scabbard (Saya): Made of wood and finished with a black glossy lacquer in the Kuroro style.
Specifications
| Blade Material | Folded 1045 Carbon Steel (Damascus) |
| Total Length (without scabbard) | approx. 104 cm (40.9 in) |
| Blade Length | approx. 73 cm (28.7 in) |
| Handle Length | approx. 30.5 cm (12 in) |
| Weight (without scabbard) | approx. 1050 g (2.3 lbs) |
Sword Care
To keep your katana retaining its lustre and sharpness, regular maintenance is required. Carbon steel is not stainless; therefore, you must protect the blade from moisture. After every touch or practice session, wipe the blade with a dry cloth and apply a thin layer of preservation oil (e.g., clove oil). Avoid touching the blade with bare hands, as sweat is acidic and causes corrosion.
Safety Warning
This is a sharp weapon capable of causing serious injury. Always use the sword with respect and caution. It is not intended for blade-on-blade contact combat. Ensure you do not endanger anyone while handling the sword. Sales are restricted to persons over 18 years of age.
We recommend complementing the katana with a sword stand and a cleaning kit for traditional maintenance.
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