A Katana is a traditional Japanese sword known for its curved, single-edged blade, long grip for two-handed use, and iconic appearance. It was the weapon of choice for samurai warriors, prized for its cutting power, speed, and elegance.

What sets the Katana apart is its craftsmanship—typically forged using a technique called differential heat treatment, which creates a razor-sharp edge and a visible temper line called the Hamon. The Katana is not just a weapon; it's a symbol of discipline, honor, and Japanese culture.

Yes, you can legally own a Katana in the United States. In most states, Katanas are classified as "edged weapons" and are legal to purchase, own, and display, especially for collectors, martial artists, or enthusiasts. However, there are important considerations regarding their transportation and public display.

While ownership is generally permitted, carrying a Katana in public spaces is subject to state and local laws. For instance, in California, openly carrying a sheathed sword is legal, but brandishing it in a threatening manner is prohibited and can lead to legal consequences. Similarly, in New York, certain concealed swords, like cane swords, are illegal to possess or carry. It's essential to research and understand the specific regulations in your state or locality to ensure compliance.

Each of our Katanas is forged using time-honored techniques by skilled craftsmen dedicated to preserving the true spirit of Japanese swordmaking. Every blade undergoes a meticulous polishing process by a master polisher, ensuring it’s not only visually stunning but also sharp enough for precise Tameshigiri cutting.

For those seeking the ultimate edge, we offer an optional razor-sharp finish—a premium service where our master polisher devotes additional hours to refine the blade to an exceptional level of sharpness. The result? A Katana that cuts with the fluidity and precision of a razor, ready for performance and display alike.

We deliver worldwide. However, we invite you to check in advance the conditions of purchase and import of weapons in your country.

All of our Katanas are full tang, meaning the blade extends seamlessly into the handle—a crucial feature for strength, durability, and balance. Each sword is hand-forged with precision, ensuring it can withstand rigorous practice and cutting exercises without compromising its integrity.

This construction isn’t just about performance—it’s also a tribute to authentic Japanese craftsmanship, honoring centuries of tradition where every detail, including the tang, played a role in forging a blade worthy of the samurai.

A Katana forged in Japan using the legendary Tamahagane steel, crafted by a certified Japanese swordsmith following ancestral traditions, typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000—and sometimes even more. These blades are often registered as cultural artifacts and represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship.

That said, there's a lot of confusion when it comes to pricing. You might come across antique Katanas—genuinely forged using traditional techniques—being resold second-hand starting from around $1,000, depending on their condition, provenance, and historical value.

Outside Japan, many skilled forges produce high-quality, hand-forged Katanas using other excellent steels like T10, 1065, or Damascus, offering exceptional performance and aesthetics for a much lower price.

In our store, we’re proud to offer authentic, traditionally forged Katanas starting at just $200, combining craftsmanship, reliability, and accessibility for enthusiasts, collectors, and martial artists alike.

Shipping is free for the US and takes a week for orders in stock. For other countries, you can check the cost and time of delivery at checkout.

Yes, a real Katana should have a Hamon, especially if it’s made using traditional forging methods.

The Hamon is the result of differential heat treatment—a key step in authentic Katana crafting. It creates a harder edge for sharpness and a softer spine for flexibility. This balance gives the Katana its legendary cutting ability and durability.

Beyond its function, the Hamon is also a signature of craftsmanship. While some modern blades have fake (etched) Hamons for aesthetic purposes, a genuine Hamon formed through clay tempering is a mark of a properly forged Katana.

So, if you're looking for a functional and traditional Katana, yes—it should absolutely have a real Hamon.

A traditional Katana typically has a blade length of around 70 to 73 cm (about 27.5 to 28.7 inches), not including the handle (tsuka).

The full length of the sword—blade plus handle—usually ranges from 100 to 110 cm (about 39 to 43 inches), depending on the style and the wielder's preference.

That said, some Katanas can be slightly shorter or longer based on custom specifications or historical variations.

Sharpening a Katana is a delicate process that should be done with great care—or ideally, left to professionals—especially if the blade is valuable or traditionally forged.

Here’s a simplified overview of how it’s done:

: Remove any old oil or debris using a soft cloth.

: A Katana is traditionally sharpened using natural whetstones (called Toishi), but modern whetstones with fine grit (1000–8000) can also be used.

: Hold the blade at a consistent sharpening angle (usually around 10–15 degrees) and gently slide it along the stone, edge first, in a smooth, controlled motion.

: Work both sides of the blade evenly, paying attention to the curve and the kissaki (tip), which requires special care.

: After sharpening, polish the blade with finer stones to refine the edge and enhance the Hamon if it’s visible.

: Once sharpened and cleaned, apply a light coat of oil to protect the steel from rust.

Important: Traditional Katana polishing and sharpening (togi) is a highly skilled craft done by specialists in Japan. If your Katana is of high value or traditionally made, do not attempt to sharpen it yourself—improper handling can damage the blade permanently.

Katanas were made to meet the evolving needs of samurai warriors in feudal Japan. As armor, warfare, and combat tactics changed, so did the weapons.

Originally, Japanese swords were straight and modeled after Chinese designs. But as mounted combat and close-quarters battles became more common, the need arose for a sword that was quick to draw, effective in a single strike, and reliable in real combat.

The Katana was born from this need—its curved blade allowed for faster draws and powerful cutting motions. It was especially effective for slashing while moving, whether on foot or horseback. Beyond function, the Katana also became a symbol of the samurai’s honor, discipline, and social status.

So, Katanas weren’t just weapons—they were tools of war, reflections of craftsmanship, and embodiments of the samurai spirit.

If you're wondering where to buy a real Katana, the answer is simple: katana-usa.com.

We specialize in authentic, hand-forged Katanas, crafted by skilled artisans using traditional methods. Whether you're looking for a battle-ready blade, a collector’s piece, or a customizable Katana tailored to your taste, you'll find it in our extensive catalog.

With detailed product descriptions, expert support, and worldwide shipping, katana-usa.com is the trusted destination for anyone serious about owning a true Japanese sword.