Shadow Dancer Nove Blue Dragon 1095 Steel Katana

Bringing together traditional craftsmanship with modern design, this katana from Shadow Dancer’s Nova Series evokes starry skies and celestial vibes. 

Its shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from 1095 steel is remarkably sharp with superior edge retention, recommended for experienced cutting practitioners. Having undergone differential heat treatment and clay tempering, the blade has a choji (clove buds) hamon that is made even more prominent through mirror polishing. 

This katana comes equipped with beautiful brass fittings including an aoi gata (hollyhock shape) tsuba, fuchi, kashira, and menuki with dragon motifs. In Japanese lore, the dragon is a powerful and benevolent deity controlling the tides and rain. The pairing of a dragon over cresting waves on the tsuba is deeply symbolic in samurai culture, representing mastery over the elements, control over life’s chaos, strength, and an indomitable spirit. Other brass koshirae are the seppa and habaki. 

One mekugi secures the nakago within the wooden core Haichi style tsuka covered with white genuine samegawa held in place with tightly wrapped tsukamaki using synthetic silk ito. 

This katana comes sheathed in a blue oil lacquered saya with white stipples, reminiscent of the galaxy. Brass shitodome and a thickened sageo complete the overall ensemble.