Hanwei Katana Iga Ninja-To Wave Fittings

The ninjas in feudal Japan were known for their stealth and elusiveness. However, two of the better known ninja clans based on the preserved scrolls of the Sengoku Period are the Kouga and Iga, two neighboring villages that went to war. As Oda Nobunaga's son, Oda Nobuo took over the province of Ise in 1576, the surviving family members of the former daimyo sought refuge with the Iga clan.

Nobuo attacked with ten to twelve thousand warriors versus four to five thousand Iga warriors, but were crushed. The Iga clan's victory was described by historian Stephen Turnbull as "one of the most dramatic triumphs of unconventional warfare over traditional samurai tactics in the whole of Japanese history." However, the Oda clan retaliated with the help of the Kouga ninjas, resulting in Iga's defeat.

Hanwei's Iga Ninjato pays tribute to this courageous clan who achieved victory despite overwhelming odds. Forged from 1566 high carbon steel, this material containing substantial manganese results in a tough blade with excellent edge retention despite extended use. The clay tempering process also produces a beautiful midareba hamon that enhances the appearance of the sword.

Equipped with a blackened iron tsuba displaying the Iga's Mon and a wave motif, this theme is also seen on the fuchi and kashira. The dismountable double pegged tsuka is covered with natural rayskin and wrapped with black tsuka ito. In line with the design, the menuki features the clouds, sun/water, and moon. This ninjato comes sheathed in a saya with a partial rattan wrap near the koiguchi and a heavily reinforced spike.