Hand Forged Ten Kei Tanto

Hand Forged Ten Kei Tanto: Aikuchi Style Dagger with Kobuse Blade

Unique Construction and Craftsmanship

This Tanto is made in the traditional Aikuchi style, meaning it lacks a handguard (tsuba). This style was historically popular for its compactness and elegance. The blade is forged in the Shinogi-Zukuri geometry and features a groove (bo-hi), which reduces weight and produces a characteristic sound when cutting.

However, the greatest asset is the blade construction itself, called Kobuse. This is a sandwich structure where a hard core of 1095 high-carbon steel is wrapped in a jacket of softer low-carbon steel (mild steel). Thanks to this, the blade is extremely hard at the edge but simultaneously flexible and resistant to breaking. Differential hardening with clay has created a beautiful and real hamon line on the blade.

Usage and Safety

Although this Tanto is a fully functional replica with a sharp blade, please keep in mind that it is primarily a collector's item and a tool for practicing forms (Kata) or light cutting tests (Tameshigiri) on soft targets (tatami mats). Warning: The blade is razor-sharp. Handling it requires maximum caution. It is not intended for contact fencing (blade-on-blade), chopping into hard objects (wood, bone), or prying. Such treatment could lead to irreversible damage to the edge.

Samurai swords warranty

Care for Your Japanese Sword

To ensure this "Gift from Heaven" serves you for generations, it requires specific care. The blade is made of carbon steel, which is prone to corrosion.

• Never touch the bare blade with your fingers; sweat is aggressive and causes rust.
• Clean and oil the blade after every use (or once a month if displayed) with special oil (e.g., Clove oil Choji).
• Perform preservation and cleaning using a traditional kit with Uchiko powder.
• Care and Maintenance of Samurai Swords and Japanese Swords

We recommend you acquire a sword stand and a katana cleaning kit to complete the care for your weapon.

Technical Parameters