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Tombo (Dragonfly) Katana, John Lee, 1095 Steel, Shobu Zukuri, with Kozuka
For the samurai, the dragonfly (Tombo) was a revered symbol of courage, strength, and the determination to never retreat. It was considered the spirit of the rice plant and a herald of a bountiful harvest. This Tombo Katana (85761) by John Lee is a true gem in many respects, perfectly embodying this symbolism. It's not just its thematic fittings that make it exceptional. Above all, it's the extremely sharp blade forged in the rare Shobu-Zukuri style from 1095 steel, and the fact that the scabbard houses an additional Kozuka knife. The beautiful wine-red handle wrap and the luxurious collector's box complete this fully functional masterpiece. Further product information ...
Tombo (Dragonfly) Katana, John Lee, 1095 Steel, Shobu Zukuri, with Kozuka
Symbolism of the Dragonfly (Tombo)
The dragonfly was sacred to the samurai. Its Japanese nickname kachi-mushi means "victory insect." This is because the insect only flies forward and never backwards, perfectly reflecting the attitude of a warrior who never retreats in battle. Having this symbol on a weapon or armour was believed to bring the wearer indomitable will and victory.
Master-Forged Blade: Shobu-Zukuri
The blade is the pinnacle of this sword and is packed with premium features. It is hand-forged from 1095 high-carbon steel, which is renowned for its extreme hardness and edge-holding capabilities.
- Blade Style: It is forged in the Shobu-Zukuri style. This elegant shape is characterized by the absence of a traditional tip line (yokote), with the blade flowing smoothly to the point. This shape is not only beautiful but also highly effective.
- Differential Hardening: The blade is traditionally hardened using a clay-coating method. The result is an extremely hard edge (approx. 60 HRC) and a softer, more flexible spine (approx. 40 HRC). This process is made visible by an authentic, hand-polished hamon line.
- Fuller (Bo-Hi): The blade features a fuller, which reduces its weight, improves balance, and creates the characteristic "whooshing" sound (tachi-kaze) when swung.
Mountings (Koshirae) and the Unique Kozuka
Every detail of the mountings is meticulously crafted and honours the dragonfly theme.
- Tsuba (Guard): The blackened, cut-out guard is a masterpiece depicting dragonflies in flight with subtle gold and silver details.
- Handle (Tsuka): It is covered with genuine ray skin (samegawa) and wrapped with wine-red silk in the classic Hineri-Maki style.
- Fittings (Fuchi & Kashira): The handle collar and pommel are adorned with dragonfly motifs.
- Scabbard (Saya) with Kozuka: The scabbard is made of wood and coated with a high-gloss black lacquer (Kuroro style). Its most unique feature is the integrated utility knife (Kozuka), which is fitted into a pocket on the side of the saya. The handle of this small knife is also decorated with a dragonfly motif.
Specifications
| Blade Material | 1095 Carbon Steel |
| Handle Material | Wood, Genuine Ray Skin, Silk |
| Scabbard | Wood, lacquered, with Kozuka knife |
| Handle Length | 30 cm (approx. 11.8") |
| Blade Length | 68 cm (approx. 26.8") |
| Overall Length (without sheath) | 98.5 cm (approx. 38.8") |
| Weight (without sheath) | approx. 1100 g (approx. 2.43 lbs) |
Package Contents
This premium katana is delivered in an attractive, fabric-lined collector's box, along with a printed cloth bag, a seal, and a certificate of authenticity.
Safe Use Guidelines
This is a top-tier, fully functional, and extremely sharp weapon. It is not a toy and must be handled with extreme caution.
WARNING: Sharp Sword – This is not a toy!
- Always handle the sword with maximum respect. It is razor-sharp and can cause severe or fatal injury.
- Not intended for stage combat or blade-on-blade contact. The hard edge (60 HRC) is brittle and can chip or break on impact with steel.
- The sword is intended for collectors, kata (forms) practice, and test cutting (tameshigiri) on appropriate soft materials (e.g., tatami mats).
- Never cut at hard objects (wood, bone, metal).
- Keep the sword out of the reach of children and unauthorised persons. Use is strictly at your own risk.
Sword Care
The 1095 carbon steel blade is not stainless. To maintain its beauty and prevent rust, it requires care. After every use (even after simple handling), wipe the blade clean with a soft cloth (like nugui-gami rice paper) and apply a thin coat of conservation oil, ideally Choji oil. Store the sword in a dry environment. For complete care, we recommend the Japanese Sword Maintenance Kit (OH2105).
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