Blade
Step 2
Welcome to Steps 2 of purchasing a katana sword. Here we discuss little about blade type for those interested in the lamination methods of their sword. Part 3 will discuss sword length. For the Average joe who is just interested in a samurai sword for display and less interested in blade lamination or sizing, go to step 4.
Note; Raijin X recommendation swords are all hand forged with quality steel. There are a variety of techniques in sword making and here will discuss the common ways the blade is assembled. This diagram depicts the lamination of steel overlay.
Definition: Lamination- Overlay over with a protective material.
What is this graph showing me?
This graph is showing the different steel material forge and welded together to build the shape of the sword. The overlay helps the blade toughness and reduces breaking or bending.
If you’re thinking…this graph is basically telling me that Maru swords are less laminated than others such as Honsanmai. The graph is showing me everything I need to know! You Sir/Madam is correct 😊
"I’m not using a sword for practice, I just want a beautiful sword"
In that case, click on next or continue below.
Maru
Also known as Muku, Maru is the most common /modern type of Japanese assembly swords. Forged from a single steel from high carbon steel with layers visible on the surface of the blade. Simplicity and ease of design is the general idea and therefore, Maru tends to be the less expensive swords. Please note this does not mean maru steel is fragile, it is long lasting and effective. It tends to be more durable than former swords made during the samurai era.
Kobuse
Kobuse is made from two steels, called Hagane or Tamahagane used to create the edge steel and shingane to create the core steel. Tamahagane is produced from iron sand and is incredibly strong and long lasting.
Honsanmai
Honsanmai uses 3 steels, alongside like Kobuse, the Hagane and the Shigane. A third part is the Kawagane which is structure around the sides of the blade or the exterior jacket.
Shihozume
These blades have all 3 components of a Honsanmai blade as well as a further added Kawagane added to the bottom of the blade. The added lamination makes the sword a more efficient weapon that strike hard without breaking.
Summary
Note, modern swords that are hand forged tend to be made with good quality. They are now durable than the swords design during the samurai era. Added steel means it will also be more expensive.
Step 3: Sword Length