The katana is a Japanese sword used by Samurai, an aristocratic warrior class in feudal Japan. It has a curved, single-edged blade that is slender and a square or circular guard. The handle is long and traditionally wrapped in rayskin and then a braid of silk or cotton. The blade is sheathed in a scabbard, which is traditionally made of lacquered wood. This weapon was used for slashing and stabbing motions in combat not necessarily for blocking or clashing.

What should I look for when buying a katana?

The first thing that needs to be taken into consideration is display versus functional. Are you looking for a sword to use or just as a decorative item to wear or display? Once you decide to what purpose you will be using your sword, then, take a look at the different variety of designs and ornamentation that can be found and choose the one that fits your personality, style and budget.

This is, basically, the handguard on a katana and it sits between the blade collar or habaki, which is at the top of the blade, and the handle or tsuka. It comes in many shapes and designs from basic to highly ornamental.

What is that wavy line running down my blade?

Also known as the hamon, it’s the visual divide between the harder and softer metal of the blade. A katana’s blade needs to have a harder edge for retention and a softer spine for flexibility. This is achieved by having the two parts of the blade cooling at different speeds during the forging process.

How do I take care of my katana?

Having a regular cleaning routine in place is key to maintaining your katana. You can purchase a traditional sword cleaning kit that will have everything you need. There are three steps: removing oil, polishing the blade and oiling the blade. Using a sheet of rice paper from the kit or a soft cotton cloth, remove any oil that is still on the blade from the previous maintenance. Take the powder ball and tap it lightly against the blade about every two inches or so along its length. Take a fresh piece of rice paper and rub the powder over the blade to polish it. Do this until both sides of the blade have been polished and the powder completely removed. Take the bottle of oil and apply a few drops along the length of the blade on each side. Use a fresh piece of rice paper to spread the oil evenly on the blade.

What’s the difference between a katana and a wakizashi?

Samurai warriors typically carried two swords as part of their dress. The katana was their primary weapon for battle and the wakizashi was used for close quarters combat. This sword is built exactly like the katana, however, it is shorter in length – a companion sword.

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KATANA SWORDS

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KATANA SWORDS

Battle ready Katana Swords ready for action!

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These swords were not only great in battle, but also as legendary pieces of art. BUDK.com has an extensive selection of handmade katana to fit your style and budget.The Samurai, an aristocratic warrior class in feudal Japan, used the katana as their primary weapon. BUDK.com collection ranges from 1045 carbon steel blades to premium black Damascus steel blades. We have katana for style, personality and budget — find yours today.

KATANA FAQS

What is a katana?
The katana is a Japanese sword used by Samurai, an aristocratic warrior class in feudal Japan. It has a curved, single-edged blade that is slender and a square or circular guard. The handle is long and traditionally wrapped in rayskin and then a "braid" of silk or cotton. The blade is sheathed in a scabbard, which is traditionally made of lacquered wood. This weapon was used for slashing and stabbing motions in combat not necessarily for blocking or clashing.
What should I look for when buying a katana?
The first thing that needs to be taken into consideration is display versus functional. Are you looking for a sword to use or just as a decorative item to wear or display? Once you decide to what purpose you will be using your sword, then, take a look at the different variety of designs and ornamentation that can be found and choose the one that fits your personality, style and budget.
What is a tsuba?
This is, basically, the handguard on a katana and it sits between the blade collar or habaki, which is at the top of the blade, and the handle or tsuka. It comes in many shapes and designs from basic to highly ornamental.
What is that wavy line running down my blade?
Also known as the hamon, it’s the visual divide between the harder and softer metal of the blade. A katana’s blade needs to have a harder edge for retention and a softer spine for flexibility. This is achieved by having the two parts of the blade cooling at different speeds during the forging process.
How do I take care of my katana?
Having a regular cleaning routine in place is key to maintaining your katana. You can purchase a traditional sword cleaning kit that will have everything you need. There are three steps: removing oil, polishing the blade and oiling the blade. Using a sheet of rice paper from the kit or a soft cotton cloth, remove any oil that is still on the blade from the previous maintenance. Take the powder ball and tap it lightly against the blade about every two inches or so along its length. Take a fresh piece of rice paper and rub the powder over the blade to polish it. Do this until both sides of the blade have been polished and the powder completely removed. Take the bottle of oil and apply a few drops along the length of the blade on each side. Use a fresh piece of rice paper to spread the oil evenly on the blade.
What’s the difference between a katana and a wakizashi?
Samurai warriors typically carried two swords as part of their dress. The katana was their primary weapon for battle and the wakizashi was used for close quarters combat. This sword is built exactly like the katana, however, it is shorter in length – a companion sword.

Top Customer Reviews

Johnny H (Farmville, VA) - MUST HAVE

as a lil hesitant at first and skeptical after I bought It. But once it arived I quickly changed my mind! Beautiful blade and look solid, and heavy. Holding this blade makes you feel like you are a beast! Only wish it was a solid full tang. But a great buy all the same. It is currently sitting on top of my custom display wraped in the sleeve it came with. Though was hoping for the display case and booklet in the featured video. But I can understand why it didn't at the price.
Review of: Shinwa Black Knight Black Cord Damascus Ninja Katana Sword
Darthvader2011 (Perkinsville, Vermont) - An elegant weapon

Its craftsmanship and appearance are first rate! the work done and effort towards beauty and detail have gone far beyond my expectations! Well done people!
Review of: Shinwa Purple Knight Ninja Katana Damascus Sword
Johnny H (Farmville, Va) - OVERALL GOOD BUY

Solid, heavy, and well proportioned. Handle is a lil large along with the blade base being a large flaring. Tip isn't as hard of an angle as I like barely a 22 deg angle. But a good all around buy. Still glad I bought it unbeatable for the price. Makes it a easy 5 star, a great solid, cheap priced sword for a collection starter or to let of a lil steam in the woods.
Review of: Full Tang Ninja Katana Sword
DMC (Spanaway WA) - Awsome Sword

Awesome sword! Looked everywhere for a ninja sword with a square pommel. Seemed like they were always $100 give or take. U can't beat the price of this sword.. AAA++++
Review of: Black Ninja Sword Set
steven m stack (home) - Doragon Damascus Tanto Sword

The sword is awesome ! It didn't take long to get here and i'm completely satisfied with the product. It comes sharpened . So sharp you can cut anything rite away . Well worth the money and more.
Review of: Yoru Doragon Forged Damascus Tanto Sword

Shinwa Black Knight Black Cord Damascus Ninja Katana Sword

This excellent sword from Shinwa offers a 28 1/8" blade that has been folded to deliver 2000 layers of outstanding cutting power. Features real Damascus steel with a heat-treated black finish and is built to perform with a razor sharp edge. Measuring 40" overall, this piece features a hardwood handle that is wrapped with genuine ray skin and nylon cord. Includes coordinating hardwood sheath.