Complete Guide to Authentic Katana & Chinese Swords — Hand-Forged with Longquan Heritage
Summary: Looking to buy a real, hand-forged sword online? This guide goes beyond typical “where to buy” posts. You’ll learn how to identify authentic katana and Chinese swords (Jian/Dao), how to choose the right steel and specs, what to check before purchase, how to maintain your blade, and why Longquan’s 2,500-year forging tradition matters for quality and value.
Why This Guide Beats Typical “Where to Buy” Lists
- Deeper content: Not just links—complete selection, materials, geometry, safety & care.
- Brand story & provenance: Longquan forging heritage for consistent quality.
- Visual evidence: More photos and a short video to show details and handling.
- Actionable FAQs: Legal, shipping, sharpening, customization—clearly answered.
Table of Contents
- How to Identify an Authentic Sword
- Real Katana vs. Decorative & Iaito
- Steel & Materials (Katana & Jian)
- How to Choose the Right Sword
- Our Longquan Forging Heritage
- Care & Maintenance
- Frequently Asked Questions
How to Identify an Authentic Sword
- Full-tang construction: The blade runs through the handle (tsuka) for strength and balance.
- Heat treatment & tempering: Proper hardness and resilience (typical katana HRC 56–60).
- Differential hardening: A genuine hamon line is formed during quenching, not just etched.
- Functional geometry: Edge profile and kissaki suited for cutting (tameshigiri)—not just looks.
- Tight, safe fittings: Tsuba, seppa, fuchi/kashira, mekugi pins must be secure—no rattles.
Red flag: If a listing doesn’t state steel type, tang structure, heat treatment, and hardness—assume it’s decorative only.
Real Katana vs. Decorative & Iaito
| Type | Intended Use | Key Features | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real / Functional Katana | Cutting practice, collection | Full-tang, heat-treated, sharpened edge | Safe if used correctly with proper training |
| Decorative Sword | Display only | Often rat-tail tang, no heat treatment | Not safe for use |
| Iaito | Iaido/kenjutsu forms (unsharpened) | Balanced, unsharpened, often aluminum alloy | Safe for forms; not for cutting |
Steel & Materials (Katana & Jian)
- High-carbon steel: Excellent edge retention and cutting performance; a favorite for training.
- Folded Damascus: Distinctive grain; improved homogeneity and toughness; prized by collectors.
- Manganese steel: Tough, resilient, good value for frequent practice.
- Fittings & scabbards: Brass/copper/alloy guards and ornaments; solid woods (e.g., rosewood, ebony) for saya/scabbards.
How to Choose the Right Sword
1) Define Your Use Case
- Martial arts (iaidō/kenjutsu): Balanced weight, smooth draw, secure fittings.
- Cutting practice: Slight forward balance can support power; ensure robust heat treatment.
- Collection & display: Damascus patterning, premium fittings, refined polish.
2) Size & Weight
- Common katana blade length: ~28–30 in (71–76 cm); adjust to your height/arm length and dojo guidance.
- Training weight: ~900–1200 g; lighter for iai, heavier for cutting.
3) Budget & Value
- Set a realistic budget for materials and build—quality heat treatment and fittings are worth it.
- Compare specs, not just photos: steel, tang, HRC, geometry, and QC.
Our Longquan Forging Heritage
All our functional blades are crafted in Longquan, Zhejiang—a region with more than 2,500 years of swordsmithing. Our smiths combine traditional hand forging, folding, and differential hardening with modern quality control to ensure consistent performance. Each blade is tested for tightness, alignment, and edge geometry before shipping worldwide.
Care & Maintenance
- After handling, wipe the blade dry to remove fingerprints.
- Apply a thin coat of mineral or sword oil to prevent rust.
- Store in a cool, dry place inside the scabbard; avoid prolonged humidity exposure.
- Train responsibly—follow dojo safety rules and local laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to own a katana or Chinese sword?
In most countries, yes—ownership for collection and training is legal. Carrying in public may be restricted. Always check local regulations.
Are your swords sharpened and full-tang?
Most functional models are sharpened and full-tang. You can request a blunt edge for iai practice on eligible models.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide with protective packaging and tracking. Typical delivery is 7–20 business days depending on location.
Can I customize blade length, fittings, or engraving?
Yes—custom options are available on select models. Contact us with your requirements for a quote and timeline.
How do I choose the right steel?
High-carbon steel for training and cutting; folded Damascus for aesthetics + performance; manganese steel for toughness and value.