12 best samurai swords

Samurai swords, also known as katana, are renowned weapons from Japanese history. These swords have a rich cultural and martial heritage, and they are considered some of the finest edged weapons ever created. Here are some key aspects of samurai swords:

Design and Construction: The katana typically features a distinctive curved, slender blade with a single edge and a circular or squared guard. The blade is often around 60-80 centimeters (24-31 inches) long and designed for both cutting and thrusting. It is forged from high-carbon steel, which is then hardened and sharpened to achieve an exceptionally sharp edge.
Materials: Traditional katana blades are made from tamahagane, a type of Japanese steel, which is repeatedly folded and hammered to remove impurities and create a strong, flexible, and sharp blade. The process of forging a katana is highly intricate and requires a skilled swordsmith.
Hamon: The hamon is a distinctive wavy line pattern along the blade created during the quenching process. It not only adds to the sword's aesthetic appeal but also indicates the quality of the blade.
Tang and Handle: The tang of the katana (nakago) extends into the handle (tsuka) and is secured with a mekugi (bamboo peg). The handle is wrapped in a specific pattern with materials like silk or leather for a comfortable and secure grip.
Fittings: The guard (tsuba), pommel (kashira), and collar (fuchi) are important fittings that adorn the katana and serve both functional and decorative purposes. These fittings can vary widely in design and quality.
Samurai Tradition: Katana swords are closely associated with the samurai, the warrior class of feudal Japan. The samurai considered their swords not just as weapons but also as symbols of their honor and social status. The code of the samurai, known as Bushido, emphasized the importance of the katana and its role in a warrior's life.
Swordsmanship and Martial Arts: The use of the katana is integral to traditional Japanese martial arts such as Kenjutsu and Iaido. These martial arts focus on the techniques and principles of swordsmanship, including drawing, cutting, and sheathing the sword with precision and speed.
Cultural Significance: The katana holds a special place in Japanese culture and history.It is often associated with legendary swordsmiths like Masamune and Muramasa. Many famous samurai, such as Miyamoto Musashi and Oda Nobunaga, wielded katana in their exploits.
Collectibility: Katana swords are highly collectible and sought after by enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Antique katana, as well as modern reproductions, can be valuable and are often appreciated for their craftsmanship and historical significance.
Legislation: In many countries, owning and trading katana swords may be subject to strict regulations due to their potential use as weapons. It is important to be aware of the legal requirements and restrictions in your area when dealing with katana.

Samurai swords, with their blend of artistry, history, and martial prowess, continue to captivate the imagination and hold a unique place in the world of weapons and martial arts.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best samurai swords on the market

BladesUSA Jl-021Bl4 Katana Samurai Sword Set, 3-Piece with Scabbard and Display Stand, 40-Inch Overall Katana

BladesUSA

Based on 350 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a designer hardwood katana in 3 piece set. It comes with wood stand for that perfect display. The sword measures 40 inch in overall length with a stainless steel blade. The handles consist of black and green wrapped cord and also cloth wrapped scabbard. Why wouldn't you want to own a set of these.

3 Piece Samurai Sword Set
40" Overall (Katana)
Stainless Steel Blade
Black & Green Cord Wrapped Handle
Includes Display Stand

User questions & answers

Question:	Is it sharp
Answer:	No
Question:	Are they just for display
Answer:	Yes, they are mainly for display purposes only. I did sharpen mine a little but they are not like the real things that are deadly sharp.
Question:	are they sturdy enough to be engraved
Answer:	I'm not sure why the question because I believe any metal can be engraved.
Question:	ik that this thing wont go through wood... but will it go through a water bottle or something similar
Answer:	The swords are more decoration. Although the blade has an edge you would have to hack at something pretty hard for it to actually cut thru. They are however very beautiful to display.

Product features

BladesUSA Jl-021Bl4 Katana Samurai Sword Set, 3-Piece with Scabbard and Display Stand, 40-Inch Overall Katana

Samurai sword
40" overall (katana)
4mm thick blade, stainless steel
Black and green cord wrapped handle
Includes cloth wrapped scabbard and display stand

Master Cutlery 3 Piece Dragon Samurai Sword Set with Stand

Trademark Global

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This three-piece Dragon Samurai Sword set from Whetstone cutlery includes a 39. 5-inch katana sword, a 29-inch wakizashi sword, and a 19-inch tanto with printed gold dragon wood on scabbard. Perfect for collectors, the sword set comes with an elegant black wood display stand included. What's in the Box? One 39. 5-inch katana sword, one 29-inch wakizashi sword, one 19-inch tanto sword, black wood display stand

What's in the Box?

One 39.5-inch katana sword, one 29-inch wakizashi sword, one 19-inch tanto sword, black wood display stand

Three piece Dragon Samurai sword set with wood display stand
39.5-inch katana sword
29-inch wakizashi sword
19-inch tanto with printed gold dragon wood on scabbard
Display stand constructed of black wood

User questions & answers

Question:	Can you do practice swings with them
Answer:	The small and medium sword are pretty firm... Idk if they're all like that but the large sword came to me pretty wobbly that I wouldn't even practice with it... But they look great though, for the price...
Question:	Are the blades blunt
Answer:	relatively...not real sharp...definitely for decoration as the build isn't that great
Question:	Are they sharp
Answer:	They do not come sharpened. I would not recommend sharpening them, as they are meant for display only, and the blades wiggle. They are not really meant for actual cutting.
Question:	are they usable
Answer:	Definitely not. If you want a 3-sword set, they are great as show pieces, but if you want something to actually chop and slice with, I would not recommend this item.

siwode Handmade Full Tang Sharp Katana, Alloy Golden Dragon Tsuba Japanese Ninja Samurai Sword (High Carbon Steel 1060) 40-Inch

Based on 335 reviews Check latest price

This item does not contain katana stand.
The warranty period for this product is 2 years, and customer service is provided 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The blade is made by high carbon steel 1060, hand-forged, Real white ray skin, Bamboo nails,no bo-hi (blood groove) .
The katana is very sharp, so please not point it to persons or animals. Wipe the blade by pointing it to the direction where no one is there, and be careful not to scratch hands. Keep out of the reach of children, this product does not apply to children under 16 years old.
This product can be used to protect you from ferocious beasts during camping or outdoor activities. It can be given as a gift or for collection.

User questions & answers

Question:	hrc of this blade
Answer:	How sharp is my blade
Question:	It is full shank or screw
Answer:	full shank
Question:	What is the sand packet that came with my sword
Answer:	After long time use, when the katana is inserted into the scabbard and becomes too loose, you can use the wood powder and glue to make it tight and not loose.
Question:	If there will ever be a zombie apocalypse, will it cut
Answer:	This thing will literally decapitate them😂💯 it can cut very well. The sharpness is razor like. It also has nice weight to it so getting through flesh and bone is no problem. Plus t10 steel!!! This sword would be perfect for the zomb-pac. I've tested mine and abused it and it's still perfectly fine. Tested on tatami mats, bottles,PVC pipes, small trees, copper tubes and on a cow head (dead).

Last Samurai Japanese Sword Katana Honor w/Free Stand (Original Version)

Etrading

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This sword is beautiful in the very traditional sense of the samurai. The samurai found beauty in all things in nature. Carved into the scabbard of this sword is the kanji for "Honor " the summation of all that a samurai is. The blade of the sword is HQSS stainless steel, already sharpened, with the hamon along the edge of the blade.

Blade is made of Stainless Steel
Black semi-gloss scabbard with Japanese kanji characters carved into it.
Handle features imitation ray skin and black ito cord wrap.
Sword comes with display stand

User questions & answers

Question:	What Is This Made Out Of
Answer:	Stainless Steel
Question:	Is it a sharp sword
Answer:	Nope, it's not... BUT, it can be sharpened, I've purchased 2 of these swords now for gifts, and I was able to put a really good edge on it with one of those cheap knife sharpeners, it's a really good inexpensive sword,I don't know if it will break during actual combat, but it holds up well enough to bamboo, watermelons, and what have you
Question:	How long is it. PLease give separate answers for Handle and blade length (I'm using it for a stand in in a film, but if it's to short it'll look like
Answer:	Handle is 10&1/4 inches from pommel to guard.Blade is 27&1/4 inches from guard to tip.Length overall is 37&1/2 inches.(These measurements were made with a metal tape measure and did not account for curvature of the blade).
Question:	If i sharped the sword it will be storng to cut wood, fruits etc
Answer:	Yes, but it rusted within a few hours after cutting fruit. Low grade stainless steal

Vulcan Gear Classic Handmade Sharp Japanese Katana Samurai Sword with Scabbard and Single Sword Wood Stand - Choose You Handle (Tsuba) Style

Vulcan Gear

Based on 338 reviews Check latest price

Traditional Handmade Razor Sharp Katana/Samurai Sword
40" Overall in length with Wood Scabbard
28" Carbon Steel Razor Sharp Full Tang Blade
Includes a 3 piece wood single Sword Stand measuring 15" wide 6.5" tall
This is the same Samurai Sword from the same swordsmith work shop as other higher priced ones with a fancy Japanese name.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the blade stainless steel
Answer:	Not stainless steel .1050 carbon steel. Read The features. Blade can actually be sharper Than a stainless metal using this type of Metal. Also sustainable to rusting. Must be Kept oiled.
Question:	What is the blade thickness along the spine
Answer:	This sword is a great value! For anywhere near the money - you cannot beat it. It mimics the best actual katana that I have handled. If you are into the kind of detail you express here though, it is not for you. Great sword!
Question:	Is it ready for combat
Answer:	The question is, "Are YOU ready for combat."
Question:	Is it at least able to be used in a fight
Answer:	Ummm... Depends on how well you like murder charges?It's sharp enough to do some serious damage without straining yourself. I wouldn't recommend it in any sort of planned (i.e. practice) fight. For self defense, it'll rank somewhat above AK47 and somewhat below AK47 with bullets.

Ace Martial Arts Supply Classic Handmade Samurai Katana Sharp Sword-Musha

Ace Martial Arts Supply

Based on 644 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a brand new full tang hand crafted Musha (Legendary Mushashi Sword Maker) samurai katana, exclusive on Amazon by Co-branding with Ace Martial Arts Supply. 40 inches handmade sharp Japanese samurai Katana sword. 28 inches 1045 high carbon razor sharp blade. This katana sword comes with hand sharpened razor sharp blade and is well balanced. The blade of the sword is hand crafted and made with high carbon steel. This sword is full tang. This sword can be used for practice use and features a visible kissake on the tip of the blade. This sword comes with a cotton-made black sword bag. Check the musha engraving on seppa (spacer) for authenticity. Don't settle with a counterfeit. Imitated by many, but exclusively available on Amazon through co-branding with Ace Martial Arts Supply. You can assure to receive original Musha/Musashi sword by checking the box and Musha engraving on the katana's seppa (spacer). Musha is reserved for entry level sword made by 1045 Carbon steel while Musashi is reserved for 1065 carbon steel.

Original Musashi/Musha quality katana
40 inches handmade sharp Japanese Samurai Katana sword
28 inches 1045 high carbon Razor sharp blade
Full tang, sharp edge, and functional
Check the Musha engraving on seppa (spacer) for authenticity with Musha box. Don't settle with a counterfeit one.

User questions & answers

Question:	what type is carbon steel is it
Answer:	most likelt 1045 carbon steel. 1060 carbon steel are in sword range price from $100~$200
Question:	can you take of and change the guard
Answer:	I don't know I've returned the item and the company said I'll be receiving my refund today or tomorrow 3 26 2014
Question:	What is the length of the blade from tip to tsuba? And the overall length
Answer:	Overall Length: 38.75 "Blade Length: 27.75 "Blade Material: 1040 High Carbon SteelTsuka Length: 10.75 "These are the specs taken from other websites but it seems to be correct from what I can tell.
Question:	How good is this sword
Answer:	Well, I will warn you. It says it is a Musashi sword, which it is, but it does not have the Musashi "brand" on it anywhere. This is because it is Musashi's "generic" brand. It is like when you compare pickles at the store. The name brand is more expensive than the generic brand, but they are the same exact pickles, from the same exact company, and many times from the same exact batch of pickles. This goes for cereal and many other things, like this sword.As for the quality, it is a very strong sword, and is a full tang sword, meaning the metal part of the blade goes through the entire handle. The material under the wrapping on the handle looks kind of like cheap plastic, but it is not noticeable unless you look closely or already know it is there. It is a very beautiful sword, has a good weight, but was a little longer than I expected, which is nice. It is also very shard. I rested the blade on the corner of the Amazon box it was shipped in, pulled the blade back MAYBE 1/4 of an inch, and it made a deep cut in the box at least 3/4 to an inch deep. Another warning though. When I first got the sword and opened it, there was some fog on the blade. The changing in the heat of being indoors then going out into the winter cold, then back into my warm house created some moisture. I wiped it off with a soft cloth and was careful not to touch the blade while doing so. I have checked it multiple times since and there is no moisture fog anymore. Because of this, however, it may be wise to purchase a cleaning kit that contains oils to keep the blade in good condition. I think they are like $7-$10 on here. All around a great deal though.

Mastergoswords 41'' Real Samurai Sword Sharp Blade Battle Ready Katana Handmade Japanese Sword with Blue/Red Scarbard

Mastergoswords

Based on 94 reviews Check latest price

The Katana is 100% pure hand-forged and sharpened by using ancient polishing method and made of high quality carbon steel.
The Full Tang greatly enhances the strength of the sword.
The Tsuba is made of metal, the Saya is made of high quality wood, the Tsuka is tightly wrapped over ray skin and beautiful red cotton cord.
Overall length: 41in; Blade length: 28.35in; Blade width: 1.2in; Handle length: 10.6in; Weight: 2.6lb.
This sword an be used to protect you from ferocious beasts during camping or outdoor activities. It is also a great gift or collection for you and your friends.

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it come with stand
Answer:	Dear customer, The stand is not included in the order. If you need, you can get such stand from other Amazon sellers with very decent prices.
Question:	How is the handle will it break if used
Answer:	It is very well made, has not been used, the blade it sharp and ready for use, and it is even more beautiful then the photo shows
Question:	is this a real Samurai Sword
Answer:	No. No it is not. Ive not bought one but i can tell you from the picture alone that it is 440 steel at best. Ive had a 440 steel straight sword for around 15yrs. Its good to play with but in not even close to a 'real Katana'. It bends and the edge does not hold. A real Katana does not cost 100 dollars..........
Question:	How many times was the steel folded
Answer:	traditional

Handmade Sword - Samurai Sword Katana, Functional, Hand Forged, 1045/1060 Carbon Steel, Heat Tempered/Clay Tempered, Full Tang, Sharp, Wooden Scabbard

Handmade Sword

Based on 289 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Handmade Sword, is a well known and authentic hand-forge sword company. We are professional and specialized in hand-forging Japanese samurai swords. We have a full range of Katana, Wakizashi, Tanto sword and other sword's accessories. Swords from Handmade Sword are all handmade in traditional ways by skilled and experienced swordsmiths. Handmade Sword strives for making the highest quality swords in the past decades. Which makes us one of the best sword sellers in this industry. We believe in keeping customers happy and providing them with the best sword at a competent price.

Traditional Forging Method: Heat Tempered or Clay Tempered.

Blade: All Handmade Sword’s blades are full tang, engraved with signature of sword smith. And it can be fully disassembled and assembled. Most of our functional blades are made of high carbon content steel. Also, there are blades made of stainless steel or aluminum alloy for Iaido training swords.

Tsuba and other fittings: Most fittings are made by brass. For Tsubas, we use coper, or brass, or iron, or alloy. It depends on each tsuba.

Handle and Saya (Scabbard): Wooden or other specified. Most handles covered by rayskin and Japanese cotton Ito.

Package Includes:

1 Assembled Katana Sword with saya

1 Black Cotton Katana Bag

1 Tube Cardboard Katana Box

Sword Stand is not included.

1045 Fully Handmade Quality Japanese Samurai Katana Sword
Aeolus tsuba, full tang, sharp edge, and functional
Approx 28.5" blade 11" handle & overall 40.9"
Wooden handle wrapped w/ray skin & black cotton cord w/ Menuki
Black piano lacquered wood tied with black Japanese cotton Sageo

User questions & answers

Question:	Does it come with the sheath
Answer:	It does come with a sheath(saya).
Question:	If i buy this which will i get, a decorative yet functional sword with tigers on it or a kill bill sword
Answer:	A sword or anything made from 1045 is too soft to be a real functional sword. Even at untempered full quench hard 1045 won't even enter the Rockwell C scale. It is still steel but it is very low carbon and is very similar to A36 that you can get at Lowes and Home Depot in the steel bin. Sure it will kill and slice but not for long. Good thing is it is very unlikely to break even at full temper and unquenched as it will bend first unless there is a flaw. 1060 is a bit better but to be a real knife or cutting implement .7 (1075) carbon content is minimum good steel can have more than 3% plus other alloys that refine grain and increase wear resistance and strength. For comparison even cheap 440c stainless has .95% carbon.
Question:	Is it folded steel? If so how many layers
Answer:	Swords are forged by traditional way with new technology (such as machine pounding on raw material...) also are folded during forging but do not trace how many times been folded because the folding procedure depends on the purity of materials and swordsmiths. Thank you.
Question:	one handed or two handed
Answer:	Handel length of this katana is approx. 10.6" and traditionally using both hands when practicing.Thanks.

Kurop Samurai Sword Handle Umbrella Ninja Katana Japanese Long Umbrella with 16 Ribs

Kurop

Based on 57 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Easy & quick button to open umbrella.

Good-looking umbrella with a handle imitating a Japanese samurai sword.

The samurai sword handle is long so it can be held with both hands to withstand strong wind.

Ideal for cosplaying a Samurai Swordsman or Ninja Warrior

There is a beautiful print of a samurai warrior. It's just like a demon slayer.

Easy & quick button to open umbrella.
Good-looking umbrella with a handle imitating a Japanese samurai sword.
The samurai sword handle is long so it can be held with both hands to withstand strong wind.
Ideal for cosplaying a Samurai Swordsman or Ninja Warrior
There is a beautiful print of a samurai warrior. It's just like a demon slayer.

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the blade sharp
Answer:	There is no blade, just the katana handle .
Question:	Is it good quality
Answer:	Love it! Very good quality!

The Samurai Sword: Spirit * Strategy * Techniques: [DVD INCLUDED]

Tuttle Publishing

Based on 84 reviews Check latest price

Zisu Carbon Steel Roronoa Zoro Katana, About 41 inch Overall, Shusui&Wado Ichimonji&Kitetsu Samurai for Cosplay Collection, Black&White&Red Available

Longquan Zisu trading company., ltd

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

CRAFTSMANSHIP - This katana is for cosplay purpose, Except that the blade is not sharpened, all other processes are made according to the standard of a real katana. The rope on the handle is hand-wound, the scabbard is made of hardwood just like real katana. It's a perfect steel replica of zoro sword
MATERIAL - The blade is made of carbon steel, which has anime original knife texture. Scabbard and handle are made of hardwood, and the tsuba is made of zinc alloy
DIMENSIONS - About 40.94 inch (104 cm) Total length, About 2.1 pounds (0.95 kg) Total weight
SAFE FOR USE - The blade is NOT sharp, and the katana has nice balance, it's prefect gift for children above 10 years old (Tip: We are working on sharp zoro sword, which will be released in the near future)
NOTICE - Every sword in this shop is manufactured by the Zisu own factory. After use it, please keep the blade clean and rub anti-rust oil on the blade to prevent the blade from rusting

Sword Fort Handmade Katana Japanese Anime Sword,Samurai Sword, Roronoa Zoro Swords, Kitetsu, Shusui, Wado wado ichimonji

Sword fort

Based on 63 reviews Check latest price

☞Japanese Cosplay Anime Roronoa Zoro Monster Knife, Kitetsu Regular Version
☞Regular version parameter: Overall Length: 40.9 in; Knife length: 27.5 in; Handle length: 10.6 in; Knife width: 1.1 in; Knife thickness: 0.2 in; Total weight: 2.6 lb; Net weight: 2 lb(without scabbard)
☞Craft features: Regular version of the sword with iron blade, anime original knife texture, both handle and scabbard are made of solid wood
☞Quality Assurance: Samurai sword is not only exquisite workmanship, but also rigorous packaging. The Regular version of the sword has a foam shock-proof packaging, and is wrapped in corrugated paper. The double-layer protection guarantees the sword integrity
☞Important note: Anime props are specially designed for cosplay or collection. The Regular version of the sword is not heat-treated, so it is not sharp, the handmade sword is very sharp after heat treatment. Please choose according to your preferences