Shadow Dancer Crucible Steel Sanbonsugi Clay Temper Sashikomi Polishing Katana

Shadow Dancer's Crucible Steel Sanbonsugi Clay Temper Sashikomi Polish Katana is an imposing piece, with a shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from crucible steel. Differentially heat treated and clay tempered, the resulting blade has excellent edge retention and shock absorption. Traditional sashikomi polishing brings out the gorgeous jihada and sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon for maximum visual appeal. 

This katana’s premium blackened fittings with gold accents includes an iron maru gata (round) sukashi (openwork) tsuba, brass fuchi, kashira, and menuki, all with the kiri (paulownia) crest. Historically reserved as a prestigious symbol for the Japanese Emperor and the Imperial Family, the crest was later bestowed upon those who displayed supreme loyalty. Today, the kirimon remains an internationally recognized emblem used by the Japanese government and Prime Minister. Much detail has been poured into this katana’s design, as evidenced by the uniform bumps on the fuchi and kashira, forming a classic texture called nanako-ji (fish-egg pattern). Gold-toned brass seppa and habaki complement the overall design. 

The full tang blade is secured to the wooden haichi-style tsuka with one mekugi. White genuine samegawa as the foundational covering of the hilt, wrapped tightly using synthetic silk ito for a firm and long-lasting grip. 

A black oil lacquered saya with brass shitodome, paired with a thickened sageo, completes this katana. 

**Three optional horimono (blade engravings) are available**