Shadow Dancer Nova Golden Dragon Saya Hand Polished Katana Sword

Striking and memorable, this katana from Shadow Dancer’s Nova Series combines the best of modern contemporary designs with the precision of traditional craftsmanship. 

Its shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade is known for its excellent cutting ability,  versatility, and robustness. Forged from 9260 spring steel which has a higher silicon content, the resulting blade has superior resilience, shock resistance, and flexibility. The addition of a bohi (fuller) decreases the sword’s overall weight while shifting its point of balance for enhanced performance, making it a wonderful choice for practitioners of any level. This heat treated and oil quenched blade is then mirror polished for a beautiful and reflective finish.

This katana’s premium blackened brass fittings with gold accents include a maru gata (round) tsuba featuring a formidable looking dragon, as well as a fuchi, kashira, and menuki with flame motifs. In Japanese culture, the dragon is a guardian, symbolizing power, wisdom, courage, and honor. Meanwhile, the flames of fire can represent the burning away of worldly desires, purification, and the destruction of evil. Gold-toned seppa and habaki add contrast and complement the sword’s overall design. 

Following tradition, one mekugi secures the blade’s full tang to the wooden core Haichi-style hilt covered in black genuine samegawa with tightly wrapped tsukamaki using white synthetic silk ito for a durable and comfortable grip. 

Consistent with the theme is a black glossy oil lacquered scabbard featuring a golden dragon with alloy shitodome and a matching thickened sageo.