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Shinobi-gatana John Lee Practical Ninja-to
If you are looking for a truly authentic tool for your path of shadows, the John Lee Practical Ninja-to is exactly what your gear is missing. Unlike many modern Hollywood replicas, this sword is based on historical research. Its blade is intentionally less curved and shortened relative to the length of the scabbard (saya). This disproportion (approx. 22.4 inches / 57 cm blade in a longer scabbard) was designed to catch an opponent off guard, as a shorter blade can be drawn much faster than a standard one. It is a masterpiece of Asian forging, combining raw utility with traditional aesthetics. Further product information ...
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Legendary Shinobi-gatana John Lee Practical Ninja-to
This Ninja sword is not just for display; it is designed for practical training and exercises with a sharp blade. Hand-forged from 9260 spring steel and hardened to approx. 55° Rockwell, this version features a Shinogi-Zukuri style blade without a fuller (Bo-Hi), providing excellent structural integrity. The handle is covered with genuine ray skin and secured by two bamboo pegs (mekugi), ensuring maximum safety during use.
Technical Specifications
| Blade Material | 9260 Carbon Spring Steel |
| Blade Hardness | approx. 55° Rockwell |
| Blade Length to Tsuba | 57 cm (approx. 22.4") |
| Overall Length (w/o Scabbard) | 88 cm (approx. 34.6") |
| Weight (w/o Scabbard) | 980 g (approx. 2.16 lbs) |
| Handle (Tsuka) | Wood, genuine ray skin (Same), black cotton wrap |
| Scabbard (Saya) | Wood, matte black with glossy spots (Kuroshime style) |
| Fittings | Genuine buffalo horn (Kurigata, Koiguchi, Kojiri) |
Historical Context: The Tool of the Shinobi
In feudal Japan, the ninja-to was often a secondary tool compared to the samurai's katana. Because ninja were operatives rather than traditional warriors, their swords had to be versatile. The extra space in the scabbard was frequently used to store blinding powders, smoke bombs, or secret documents. Furthermore, the sturdy tsuba (guard) could be used as a step to scale walls. This John Lee replica honors that tradition of deceptive functionality.
Maintenance and Safety Guidelines
- Wipe the blade with a dry cloth after every use and apply a thin coat of sword oil (e.g., Choil oil) to prevent rust.
- Never store the sword in its scabbard if it is damp or dirty.
- Check the bamboo pegs (mekugi) regularly to ensure the blade remains securely fastened in the handle.
- This sword is sharp; use it at your own risk. It is not intended for contact sparring against other weapons, as the edge may chip or break under high impact.
- The included wooden collector's box is for transport protection only and is provided free of charge.
To complete your set, consider adding a traditional sword cleaning kit and a single-tier sword stand for display.
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