Shadow Dancer DragonFly Katana (Katateuchi)

Aptly named, this Shadow Dancer katana uses vibrant and bold contrasting colors, reflecting the dragonfly’s nature. 

Designed in the historical Katateuchi style for lightning-fast one-handed use, its shorter shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade is forged from crucible steel, a material prized for its superior edge retention, shock absorption, and beautiful aesthetics. 
Differentially heat treated, the process yields a stunning sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon made even more visible through traditional sashikomi polishing. The addition of a bohi helps to reduce the sword’s overall weight, improve its point of balance, and optimize its tachikaze. 

This katana comes with premium fittings—including a hand finished maru gata (round) iron tsuba along with brass fuchi, kashira, and menuki—that are intricately adorned with dragonfly motifs. The tonbo (dragonfly) or kachimushi (victory insect) is revered for its courage, swift nature, and bold spirit as they move only forward and never retreat. Other fittings include copper seppa and a Yujo-style habaki. 

One mekugi secures the full tang blade to the wooden Haichi-style tsuka covered in white samegawa with common emperor nodes. The hilt is then wrapped tightly using white silk ito for a comfortable and durable grip. 

Completing this masterpiece is a vermilion glossy lacquered saya with horn fittings, brass shitodome, and Japanese-imported sageo.