Shadow Dancer 9260 Steel Shobu Zukuri Katana

Evoking an indomitable spirit with an air of refined grace, this Shadow Dancer katana’s shobu zukuri (ridge line runs all the way to the tip without a distinct tip section) blade is forged from 9260 steel, a material with higher silicon content. Heat treated and oil quenched, the resulting blade is prized for its impressive flexibility and shock resistance. Mirror polishing brings out the beauty of the blade, ensuring a smooth and reflective finish. 

Premium brass fittings adorn this katana, including a sukashi (openwork) tsuba, fuchi, kashira, and menuki with blooming ume (plum blossoms) flowers on a gnarled branch. Blooming in late winter, they symbolize hope, perseverance, and noble strength in the face of harsh adversity. Other koshirae are brass seppa and habaki to complement the sword’s design. 

This katana’s full tang blade is secured using one mekugi between the two halves of the wooden Haichi-style tsuka, a traditional design that allows the sword to be easily taken apart for cleaning, polishing, or for handle maintenance. White genuine samegawa covering the handle not only offers structural reinforcement, but also provides friction for the tightly wrapped synthetic silk ito, resulting in a solid and longer lasting grip. 

A beautiful matte black oil lacquered saya with brass shitodome and a matching thickened sageo completes the ensemble.