John Lee Shira-Saya Katana

John Lee Shira-Saya Katana – Light Wood

A Weapon Hidden in Plain Sight

Beyond blade storage, the shira-saya gained significance in the late 19th century when the Emperor banned the public carrying of swords in Japan. Samurai began hiding their weapons in these inconspicuous wooden mountings that resembled an ordinary walking stick. The sword features a smooth handle without wrapping and lacks a hand guard (tsuba), giving it a clean, minimalist appearance.

Blade and Functionality

Hidden inside the wooden case is a hand-forged blade made of 1045 carbon steel in the shinogi-zukuri style. The blade is sharp and features a groove (bo-hi). The temper line (hamon) is created by cross-grinding for an authentic look.

Important Safety Warning

Although the blade is sharp and theoretically capable of cutting, we strongly advise against using this sword for cutting tests (tameshigiri). The reason is the absence of a hand guard (tsuba). If your hand were to sweat and slip from the smooth wooden handle onto the blade during a strong strike, severe injury could occur. This sword is ideal as a study piece, decoration, or for practicing forms (kata) with maximum caution.

Samurai swords warranty

Specifications