John Lee

John Lee Shirasaya O-Tanto, sharp

130 , 70 Incl. VAT
1 left in stock
In stock. Ordered before 20:00, shipped today.
  • iDEAL
  • Klarna
  • Google Pay
  • Apple Pay
  • Mastercard
  • Visa
  • PayPal
  • Maestro
  • American Express
  • Bancontact

Product description

Shirasaya is a special sword composition that was mainly used in time of peace. The undyed Magnolia wooden scabbard and grip optimally protect the blade from acid and other damages. Many Shirasaya were provided with a Sayagaki, an inscription that provided information on the smith, origin and classification.

In the 19th century the wearing of samurai swords became prohibited by the Japanese emperor. The wooden grip of the Shirasaya makes the sword resemble a staff, stick or bokken. This way it could keep being worn in the Japanese streets.

This tanto has a Shinogi-Zukuri style blade with Hohlkehle (Bo-Hi). It is made of 1045 carbon steel with a hardness of 52-55 HRC. The blade is razor sharp and is finished with Hamon. The grip is fastened with two bamboo stifts (Mekugi) to the tang (Bohrung). The grip can easily be replaced.

This tanto is 49 cm long with a 30 cm blade and a 17 cm grip. It weighs 450 grams.


Product details
Product details:
Blade Material: 1045 carbon steel, 52–55 HRC hardness;
Handle Material: Wood / ray skin / Cotton;
Sheath: Wood;
Handle Length: 17 cm;
Blade Length: 30,5 cm;
Overall Length (without sheath): 48 cm;
Weight (without sheath): 420 g;

Similar products

Related blogs

  • The disassembly of a katana

    Read more
  • Anatomy of a Samurai-sword (Katana)

    Read more
  • About types of steel

    Read more
  • About the sharpness of weapons

    Read more