Q&A for How to Tell the Quality of a Japanese Sword

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Traditional japanese blades do have wooden sheaths, as well as wrapped wooden handles. It's okay if your katana doesn't have a wrapped handle, but it is traditional. Usually if your katana is unwrapped, it shows that the maker doesn't know too much about katanas, but by all means, don't think this means their work is low quality!

Yes and no. The Tsuba can be of any material, but it is usually iron, brass or steel. But be sure to remember that if it's made of something like plastic or polypropylene, the katana is probably low quality. Wood Tsubas might be used, but try to avoid these, as they tend to be more frail than others.

To determine if your katana is authentic, examine the blade for high-quality, folded steel with a wavy hamon pattern, and ensure it's sharp and well-balanced. Check the tang (nakago) for a maker’s signature (mei) and verify it is part of the blade, not welded on. Inspect the fittings: the guard (tsuba) should be detailed, the handle (tsuka) tightly wrapped with ray skin and cord, and all fittings made from quality materials. Research the swordsmith if there’s a signature and look for signs of genuine age and wear. Finally, consider a professional appraisal and check for any authenticity documentation.

Your katana may be a cheap copy. Real katanas are typically not made of wood, so consider seeking a refund if possible.

The maker's identification on a samurai sword, or katana, is typically found on the tang, which extends into the handle. This area is often covered by the handle wrapping (tsuka-ito) and the handguard (tsuba). To reveal the maker's signature, called the mei, you may need to carefully remove the handle wrapping and handguard. The signature is usually engraved or inscribed on the tang in kanji characters.

The small wooden plug in the handle of a samurai sword is called a "mekugi." It's used to secure the tang (the part of the blade that extends into the handle) to the handle itself, acting as a pin to keep the sword assembly intact. It's an essential component for maintaining the structural integrity of the sword during use.

To verify the authenticity of your sword, check its material, craftsmanship, maker's mark, age, and provenance. Look for high-quality steel, expert craftsmanship, a maker's signature on the tang, and consider the sword's age and history. If uncertain, consult with experts for a professional assessment.

Consider factors such as the purchase source, materials, craftsmanship, Cold Steel branding, weight, balance, and price. If uncertain, seek expert opinion or contact Cold Steel for verification.

The handle, or "tsuka," of a katana traditionally consists of wood wrapped with "tsukamaki," often made of silk or leather. The wood is typically strong and durable, such as Japanese white oak, cherry, or maple. While traditional materials are preferred for authenticity, modern variations may use synthetic materials for practicality.

If there are no marks, examine the style and craftsmanship. Some swords have distinct features that indicate their region or time period of origin. Consulting with experts or antique dealers specializing in swords can provide opinions on the quality and potential maker based on its characteristics. Additionally, researching similar swords from the same era or region might offer clues about its origin and craftsmanship.

To check for writing on a sword's blade, carefully inspect it under good lighting, clean it if necessary, use magnification for small or faint details, focus on areas near the tang, and consider consulting experts for assistance.