Shadow Dancer Arabesque 1095 Steel Clay Tempered Katana

Distinguished with a clean and sleek design, this Shadow Dancer katana has a machine polished shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from 1095 steel, a material with ~0.95% carbon, known for its ability to hold a sharp and keen edge. Differentially heat treated and clay tempered, the resulting blade with a stunning sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon has a more flexible spine and very hard edge that can be unforgiving in tameshigiri for those who are less experienced. A bohi is added for improved performance as it decreases excess weight, shifts the point of balance towards the guard, and optimizes the tachikaze. 

As its name implies, this katana comes equipped with a blackened iron kaku maru gata (square with rounded corners) sukashi (openwork) tsuba with arabesque motifs. Culturally, these flowing vines symbolize longevity and prosperity due to their uninterrupted growth. Other fittings include alloy fuchi and kashira with stone-wall pattern as well as gold-toned alloy menuki, brass seppa, and habaki. 

The full tang blade is secured between the two halves of the wooden Haichi-style tsuka using a mekugi. White samegawa serves as the foundational covering for the hilt, wrapped tightly in place using black synthetic silk ito. Those prioritizing katana performance have optional upgrades of hishigami or hishigami pro to ensure an even firmer longer-lasting grip with better edge alignment feedback.

Completing the overall piece is a lacquered saya with black speckles, paired with a thickened sageo.