Golden Autumn Katana – Kobuse Laminated by John Lee
Experience the lethal elegance of the Edo period with the "Golden Autumn" Katana. This sword captures the wabi-sabi aesthetic—finding beauty in the impermanence of nature, symbolized by falling autumn leaves and the fleeting dragonfly. However, beneath its artistic exterior lies a formidable weapon forged using the complex Kobuse lamination technique. Designed for serious martial artists and discerning collectors, this katana offers the perfect balance between shock absorption and edge retention. Whether you are performing Tameshigiri (test cutting) or admiring the intricate fittings, the Golden Autumn Katana stands as a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship. Further product information ...
Golden Autumn Katana – Kobuse Laminated Masterpiece by John Lee
Advanced Kobuse Blade Construction
The blade distinguishes this sword from standard replicas. It is forged in the Kobuse cross-section style. A core of softer, low-carbon steel is enveloped by a jacket of incredibly hard, high-carbon steel (1095 type).
The outer jacket has been folded 12 times to create approximately 8,000 layers, revealing a beautiful grain pattern (hada). The blade is differentially clay-tempered, resulting in a genuine Hamon line. The edge reaches a hardness of 60 HRC for razor-sharp cutting, while the softer core (approx. 40 HRC) prevents the blade from snapping under impact.
Exquisite Fittings (Koshirae)
The fittings are hand-crafted to reflect the "Golden Autumn" theme. The Tsuba (guard) features detailed reliefs of leaves and insects. Look closely for the dragonfly—known to the samurai as Kachimushi or "Victory Insect"—symbolizing courage because it flies only forward.
- Handle (Tsuka): Covered in real white ray skin and wrapped in black silk cord. Traditional paper triangles (hishigami) are used beneath the wrap to ensure a tight, geometrically perfect grip that will not loosen over time.
- Scabbard (Saya): The black lacquered wood is inlaid with a distinct strip of ray skin, a mark of high status. The mouth (koiguchi), knob (kurigata), and end cap (kojiri) are made from genuine buffalo horn.
Usage and Safety
This is a functional, battle-ready sword (Shinken).
Warning: This katana is extremely sharp. It is not a toy.
- Not for Stage Combat: Do not use this sword for blade-on-blade contact. The high-hardness edge is brittle and will chip or shatter if it strikes another steel object.
- Cutting Tests: It is suitable for cutting soft targets like tatami mats.
- Handling: Always handle with extreme caution. Use implies acceptance of all risks. Keep away from children.
- Samurai swords warranty
Specifications
| Blade Construction | Kobuse (Soft core, 1095 High Carbon jacket) |
| Hardness (HRC) | Edge approx. 60 HRC / Spine approx. 40 HRC |
| Blade Length | 73 cm (approx. 28.7 inches) |
| Handle Length | 29 cm (approx. 11.4 inches) |
| Total Length | 103 cm (approx. 40.6 inches) without saya |
| Weight | approx. 1350 g (approx. 3 lbs) |
| Materials | 1095 Steel, Ray skin, Silk, Buffalo horn |
| Included | Wooden collector's box, cloth bag, certificate |
To preserve the steel, we recommend purchasing a traditional cleaning kit containing Choji oil and Mekugi-nuki.
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