Handmade Black 1095 Folded Steel Tanto Sword with Real Hamon
The HanBon Forge HBF1014 Black Tanto Sword is a handcrafted Japanese-style short sword featuring a 1095 folded high-carbon steel blade, differential clay tempering, a genuine hamon, and distinctive black blade finish. Its full-tang construction, sakura-themed fittings, and traditional wrapped handle combine Japanese sword aesthetics with modern custom sword craftsmanship.
With a 13-inch (33 cm) blade and an overall length of approximately 19.5 inches (49.5 cm), this tanto offers a compact alternative to a full-size katana. It is designed for collectors, Japanese sword enthusiasts, and customers looking for a distinctive handmade tanto with customizable details.
- Steel: 1095 folded high-carbon steel
- Heat Treatment: Differential clay tempering
- Hamon: Genuine heat-treatment hamon
- Blade Finish: Black surface finish
- Construction: Full tang
- Blade Geometry: Shinogi-zukuri
- Blade Length: 13 inches (33 cm)
- Handle: Genuine black rayskin and black synthetic silk ito
- Fittings: Sakura (cherry blossom) theme
- Saya: Glossy black wooden scabbard
- Customization: Engraving and selected fittings available on request
Why Choose This Japanese Tanto?
This handmade tanto brings together a folded steel blade, traditional Japanese-inspired mounting details, and a contemporary black appearance. Each of these features contributes to its distinctive design.
- Hand-forged blade: The 1095 high-carbon steel blade is individually forged and finished rather than being a cast decorative imitation.
- Folded steel construction: Repeated folding and forging produce layered grain patterns that reflect the blade-making process.
- Real clay-tempered hamon: Differential heat treatment creates an authentic hardening boundary rather than a purely decorative etched imitation.
- Full-tang design: The blade tang extends into the handle to provide structural support.
- Sakura-themed fittings: Cherry blossom detailing adds traditional Japanese-inspired character.
- Custom order options: Customers may request engraving, selected fittings, or other available modifications.
1095 Folded Steel Blade and Clay Tempering
1095 High-Carbon Folded Steel
The blade is forged from 1095 high-carbon steel, a material commonly used for handmade Japanese-style swords. The folding process produces layers within the steel, creating subtle grain patterns that are valued for their visual character.
Folded steel is particularly appealing to sword collectors who appreciate the appearance and craftsmanship of layered blades. Folding alone does not automatically make a blade stronger; its performance also depends on forging quality, heat treatment, blade geometry, and finishing.
Differential Clay Tempering and Genuine Hamon
This tanto uses differential clay tempering. During heat treatment, the blade is prepared to achieve different cooling behavior along the cutting edge and spine. This produces variations in the hardened structure and creates a genuine hamon.
Unlike a decorative hamon produced only by surface etching or brushing, a real hamon is associated with the blade's heat-treatment structure. Its appearance varies naturally from blade to blade.
Distinctive Black Blade Finish
The dark surface treatment gives this tanto a striking appearance while complementing the black handle wrapping and glossy saya. The result is a coordinated black Japanese short sword with subtle traditional details.
As with other finished carbon steel blades, the surface should be handled and maintained carefully. Abrasive polishing, cutting contact, and improper cleaning can damage the black finish.
Traditional Japanese Tanto Construction
Shinogi-Zukuri Blade Geometry
The HBF1014 features shinogi-zukuri blade geometry, characterized by a defined ridge line along the blade. The design gives the short sword the recognizable profile of traditional Japanese-style blades.
The blade also incorporates a single groove (bo-hi). A bo-hi removes some material from the blade and contributes to its overall appearance and balance.
Full-Tang Handle Construction
The blade has a full tang (nakago) extending into the wooden handle core. This is an important structural feature of a functional Japanese-style sword.
The handle is covered with genuine black rayskin (samegawa) and wrapped in black synthetic silk tsuka-ito using traditional hineri-maki-style wrapping.
Sakura-Themed Sword Fittings
Cherry blossoms, known as sakura in Japanese, are a familiar motif in Japanese art and sword decoration. The sakura-themed alloy fittings on this tanto provide decorative contrast to the dark blade and handle.
Glossy Black Wooden Saya
The tanto comes with a glossy black wooden saya (scabbard), designed to complement the overall appearance of the sword and provide suitable storage for the blade.
Black 1095 Folded Steel Tanto Specifications
| Specification | Product Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | HanBon Forge |
| Model | HBF1014 |
| Sword Type | Japanese Tanto |
| Overall Length | 19.5 inches (49.5 cm) |
| Blade Length (Nagasa) | 13 inches (33 cm) |
| Handle Length (Tsuka) | 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) |
| Steel | 1095 Folded High-Carbon Steel |
| Heat Treatment | Clay Tempered / Differentially Hardened |
| Hamon | Real Hamon |
| Blade Finish | Black Finish |
| Blade Style | Shinogi-Zukuri |
| Groove (Bo-Hi) | Single Hi |
| Blade Tang | Full Tang |
| Edge | Hand Sharpening Options Available |
| Tsuka-Ito | Black Synthetic Silk |
| Samegawa | Genuine Black Rayskin |
| Habaki | Black Brass |
| Fittings | Sakura-Themed Alloy Fittings |
| Saya | Glossy Black Wooden Saya |
| Approximate Weight | 0.9 kg (as listed) |
| Manufacturing Origin | Longquan, Zhejiang, China |
Measurements and weight are approximate. Because each sword is individually handcrafted, minor variations may occur. Please confirm any critical dimensions before ordering.
Customization and Personal Engraving
HanBon Forge offers customization services for customers who want a more personal Japanese tanto. Selected blade, handle, saya, and fitting modifications may be available depending on production feasibility.
Custom Blade Engraving
Personalize your tanto with a name, short message, Japanese kanji, Chinese characters, or other suitable engraving designs. Blade engraving is generally priced at US$50, unless a different price or complimentary engraving offer is confirmed for your order.
Design complexity, positioning, and the black blade finish may affect engraving feasibility and final appearance. Please contact us with your design before ordering.
View our Japanese Sword Engraving Service for additional information.
Custom Saya, Handle and Fittings
Customers may also request available upgrades such as alternative saya designs, tsuka-ito colors, and sword fittings. Customization prices and production times depend on the selected components.
Browse the HanBon Forge Japanese Sword Fittings Collection to explore options.
Handcrafted by HanBon Forge in Longquan, China
HanBon Forge specializes in handmade Japanese-style swords and custom sword projects, working with experienced sword makers in Longquan, Zhejiang, China, a region known for its long history of sword craftsmanship.
The production process involves blade forging, heat treatment, grinding, finishing, handle assembly, and saya fitting. Each stage contributes to the final appearance and construction of the completed sword.
Quality Inspection Before Shipping
Before dispatch, HanBon Forge checks the completed sword's general finish, handle assembly, fittings, saya fit, and the details of the customer's order. Customers are provided with completion photographs for review before shipment.
For a custom order, this photo confirmation process helps ensure the finished sword matches the agreed specifications.
Care and Maintenance
The HBF1014 is made from high-carbon steel and requires appropriate care to reduce the risk of corrosion and surface damage.
- Avoid touching the blade with bare fingers, as fingerprints can contain moisture and salts.
- Wipe the blade with a clean, soft cloth after handling.
- Apply a very thin layer of suitable protective sword oil when appropriate, following guidance for the black finish.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, sandpaper, and metal polishing compounds on the finished blade.
- Keep the sword and saya dry; avoid long-term exposure to humid conditions.
- Store the sword securely and out of reach of children.
For more information, read our Japanese Sword Collection and explore other handmade Japanese-style sword models.
Ordering and Shipping Information
Select your preferred hand-sharpening option and complimentary sword bag using the product options above. Additional customization requests can be entered in the order notes or discussed with HanBon Forge before purchase.
Orders are prepared according to the selected specifications. Production and international delivery times may vary based on the customization requested and the shipping destination.
International sword import rules vary by country. Customers should verify applicable local laws and import restrictions before placing an order.
For questions regarding customization, production, and delivery, contact HanBon Forge before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this 1095 folded steel tanto handmade?
Yes. The HBF1014 is a handmade Japanese-style tanto forged from 1095 folded high-carbon steel, with hand finishing and traditional-inspired assembly.
Does this black tanto have a real hamon?
Yes. The blade is differentially clay tempered to produce a genuine hamon. The black blade finish may influence how clearly the hamon is visible in photographs and under different lighting.
What is the difference between folded steel and regular 1095 steel?
Folded steel is repeatedly folded and forged to create layered grain patterns. Its primary appeal for modern collectors is its distinctive appearance and craftsmanship. Folding does not automatically guarantee superior cutting performance or strength.
Is the tanto full tang?
Yes. The blade has a full-tang construction, with the tang extending into the wooden handle.
Can I order this tanto sharpened or unsharpened?
Sharpening options are available. Please choose the appropriate option on the product page, or contact us before ordering if you require an unsharpened blade for a specific purpose.
Is this tanto suitable for cutting practice?
The tanto has a forged steel blade and full-tang construction. Suitability for any particular cutting activity depends on the finished blade, edge selection, condition, and user experience. Please contact us before purchase if you have specific functional requirements. Sharp swords should only be handled in appropriate controlled conditions.
Can I customize the engraving or sword fittings?
Yes. HanBon Forge offers selected engraving and sword fitting customization services. Availability, cost, and production time depend on the requested design.
What is the blade length of this tanto?
The blade is approximately 13 inches (33 cm) long. The overall sword length is approximately 19.5 inches (49.5 cm).
What accessories come with this tanto?
The tanto comes with its matching wooden saya. A complimentary sword bag can be selected through the product options. A sword certificate is also listed among the included accessories.
Will the black blade finish wear off?
The black surface finish may show wear from abrasive contact, cutting, or improper maintenance. Avoid aggressive polishing and protect the blade from scratches, corrosion, and moisture.
Explore More Handmade Japanese Swords
Explore more Handmade Japanese Tanto Swords , browse our Japanese Katana Collection , or create a personalized sword through our Custom Katana Builder .
HanBon Forge — Handmade Japanese-Style Swords, Custom Forging and Traditional-Inspired Craftsmanship.
