Shobu Katana - 5160 Steel Blade

Here is a warriors blade that hearkens back to the 14th century, a strong beautiful blade in the classic Shobu Zukuri style. This sword is an exceptional cutting blade as the samurai proved against the Mongol invaders where this style of sword proved more effective against the Mongol armor. This style of blade is believed to have evolved from the naginata/nagamaki that were renowned for their cutting power.

In our efforts to keep alive the Samurai past we enjoy reproducing historical blades of the samurai. Many of these swords and styles are no longer available in modern Japan. This is a sword of the samurai, from a time when they were the elite warriors of Japan.

There is no hamon and no hada (folding pattern) in the tough 5160 steel but these swords can cut and take abuse at the same time. So each sword can sit proudly on a sword stand but also be a daily working sword in the dojo. Shobu Zukuri means iris leaf, which refers to the shape of the beautifully curved kissaki.

Details:
Blade Steel 5160
Weight without Saya (Sheath) 2lb 8oz
Overall Length 44 1/2"
Nagasa (Blade) Length 29"
Tsuka (Handle) Length 14"
Kasane (Thickness at Habaki) 7.1mm
Sakikasane (Thickness at Tip) 4.6mm
Motohaba (Width of Blade at Habaki) 1 1/3"
Sakihaba (Edge to back at Yakote) 7/8"
Sori 5/8"