Shadow Dancer 1095&1045 Steel Sanmai Katana

Sanmai (三枚), roughly translating to “three-layer forging” can be historically associated with the Hasebe school of Yamashiro (active mid-to-late 14th century) and later the Gassan school (19th to 20th centuries). This technique of putting higher carbon steel on the edge while using softer material on the sides allows each steel to be used where it is most useful. This provides a good combination of a hard cutting edge with a softer, more shock absorbing spine while adding to the blade’s visual appeal. 

Using this concept, this Shadow Dancer katana’s shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade is made from 1095 and 1045 carbon steel, differentially heat treated and clay tempered to produce a sharp edge, more flexible spine, and a beautiful sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon accentuated through Kesho polishing. 

It comes equipped with premium blackened fittings, including a lightweight iron maru gata (round) sukashi (openwork) tsuba as well as brass fuchi and kashira. Other koshirae are gold-toned brass menuki and copper seppa and habaki. 

Staying true to traditional design, the full tang blade is secured between the two halves of the wooden Haichi style tsuka with one mekugi. This handle is then covered using white samegawa (without emperor nodes) and bound tightly using synthetic silk ito. Hishigami (folded paper wedges) are added beneath the wrap for more structural support, improve grip, and ensure a longer lasting ito while keeping it tight. 

A matte black oil lacquered saya with brass shitodome and thickened sageo completes this masterpiece.