Handmade Japanese Tanto Sword T10 Carbon Steel Clay Tempered Choji Hamon Full Tang Real Ray Skin Handle Copper Fittings Blue Lacquered Dragon Saya 21.6"

Handmade T10 Choji Hamon Tanto — A Masterpiece of Traditional Swordsmithing

For the discerning collector who demands authenticity, this handmade Japanese tanto represents the pinnacle of modern traditional swordcraft. Forged from T10 high-carbon steel and finished with an unmistakable Gunome Choji Hamon, every element of this short sword has been executed with the reverence and precision once reserved for the blades of feudal samurai. From the real pearl ray skin handle to the hand-engraved copper mountings and the striking blue dragon saya, this tanto is not merely a collectible — it is an heirloom in the making.

⚔️ The Blade: T10 Steel & Choji Hamon

At the heart of this tanto lies a hand-forged T10 high-carbon steel blade measuring 13 inches (33cm) in length. T10 steel is the material of choice for collectors who specifically desire a visible, authentic hamon — its high carbon content supports true clay tempering (yaki-ire), the ancient differential hardening technique that defines Japanese sword aesthetics. 

During the clay tempering process, the smith applies a precise layer of clay to the blade before quenching. The exposed edge cools rapidly to a glass-hard state, while the clay-covered spine cools more slowly, retaining flexibility. The result is the breathtaking Gunome Choji Hamon — a temper line that undulates across the blade like clove blossoms in bloom, a pattern historically associated with the Bizen and Soshu traditions of Japanese swordsmithing. 

✨ 18-Stage Hand Polishing

The blade edge receives an extraordinary 18-step hand-polishing treatment using progressively finer Japanese water stones. This meticulous togi process does more than sharpen — it brings the hamon to life with crystalline clarity, revealing the subtle activities (hataraki) within the temper line that machine polishing can never achieve. The spine and shinogi-ji are polished to a soft satin sheen, creating a striking contrast against the bright, mirror-like edge.

🐉 Premium Mountings & Real Ray Skin

The tsuka (handle) is built around a full-tang blade and wrapped over genuine pearl ray skin (samegawa) — the same material used on authentic nihonto for over 700 years. The natural granular texture of the ray skin provides an unmatched grip foundation, while the white cotton tsuka-ito wrapping is tightened and shaped by hand for both beauty and function. Copper menuki ornaments are concealed beneath the wrap, adding a touch of hidden luxury.

The tsuba (handguard), fuchi (collar), and kashira (pommel) are all cast from solid copper and feature intricate hand-engraved motifs of dragons and traditional waves, finished in a rich antique gold patina. A matching copper habaki (blade collar) ensures a snug, rattle-free fit within the scabbard.

🎨 Blue Lacquered Dragon Saya

The saya (scabbard) is constructed from seasoned hardwood and coated with multiple layers of deep blue urushi lacquer, polished to a lustrous, glass-like finish. A magnificent gold dragon is hand-painted across the surface, its scales and whiskers rendered with artistic precision. A dark blue sageo cord completes the presentation, allowing the tanto to be worn or displayed with traditional elegance.

📐 Specifications

🎁 Perfect For

• Serious nihonto collectors seeking an authentic clay-tempered blade with a real hamon
• Iaido and Kenjutsu practitioners who value traditional construction and balance
• Martial arts dojo displays as a centerpiece of Japanese weaponry
• Luxury gifting for executives, sword enthusiasts, and lovers of Japanese culture
• Home and office decor with museum-quality artistic presence

⚠️ Important Notice

This item is sold strictly as a decorative collectible, display piece, and martial arts training accessory. Please verify your local laws and regulations regarding sword ownership before purchasing. Buyers must be 18 years of age or older. We are not responsible for any misuse of this product. The blade is factory-sharp; handle with extreme care. Carbon steel requires regular oiling with choji oil or mineral oil to prevent oxidation. Store horizontally in a stable environment away from direct sunlight and moisture. cite🛠web_search:3#8:~:text=The primary threat to a carbon steel blade...choji oil or mineral oil prevents rust

📦 What You Get

• 1 x Handmade T10 Choji Hamon Tanto (with Saya)
• 1 x Silk Sword Case (random color)