Red Katana Sword – Handmade High Carbon 1095 Steel Sword – 40.5"
Historical Background
The katana is a legendary Japanese sword, wielded by the samurai of ancient and feudal Japan. Renowned for its curved, single-edged blade, long two-handed grip, and circular or squared guard, it stands as a symbol of precision and craftsmanship. Western historians have often hailed the katana as one of the finest cutting weapons in world military history. A katana is traditionally defined as any sword with a blade length exceeding 24 inches.
This particular katana spans an impressive 40.5 inches, expertly crafted with blended high carbon 1095 steel and accented with brass bolsters. Its distinctive red handle wrapping adds a vibrant and modern touch to this timeless weapon.
Blade Materials
The blade is forged from 1095 steel, a high-carbon steel celebrated for its sharp edge retention and hardness.
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Carbon Content: At 0.95%, 1095 steel boasts one of the highest carbon levels for sword-making.
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Hardness: 56-58 HRC, ensuring an incredibly sharp edge.
However, pure 1095 steel lacks flexibility, which is crucial for withstanding high-impact collisions. To overcome this, the blade undergoes a clay tempering process:
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Clay Application: Clay is applied to areas of the blade excluding the edge, allowing these sections to cool more slowly during quenching.
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Result: The edge remains strong and razor-sharp, while the rest of the blade becomes more flexible, optimizing strength and resilience.
This meticulous process produces a katana with a strong, sharp edge and enhanced durability, perfect for cutting and traditional use.
Sword Details
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Overall Length: 40.5 inches
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Blade Material: 1095 Steel
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Tang: Full tang for maximum stability
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Handle: Wooden core wrapped in red fabric for a secure grip
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Rockwell Hardness: 55-56 HRC
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Sheath: Crafted from wood and leather
Damascus Steel Pattern
This katana also features a stunning Damascus steel pattern, showcasing:
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Layered Construction:
- 6 pieces of Carbon Steel (#43 and #40)
- 5 pieces of High Carbon Steel (1095)
- Repeated folding creates a mesmerizing 352-layer pattern.
This intricate layering enhances the blade's aesthetic appeal and strength, making it a functional work of art.
