Bamboo Citadel Katana - Limited Edition III

This is the third in the series of Limited Edition katana from Citadel Knives and Swords. Each sword is signed by the smith on the nakago with the sword number, limited to 100 swords before the model is retired. Click here to read about how these high quality samurai swords are made.

This rendition of the classical bamboo themed katana is a light and fast sword. Hand forged from imported European DNH7 high carbon steel the differentially hardened blade features a "bo-hi" or fuller to lighten and balance the blade without sacrificing strength. This is an extremely collectible and capable sword.

The tsuba is hand cut and engraved from pure iron. The "nanako" or stippled pattern on the tsuba is accomplished by hand, quite a feat of patience with a stunning result. The tsuba also features "seki-gane", metal inserts at the top and bottom of the hole for the blade to slip through. These are of a softer metal (copper) than the iron of the tsuba and allow easier shaping of the hole to perfectly fit the tsuba to the blade. Over time if this fit becomes loose or the tsuba is fitted to another blade the seki-gane may be adjusted easily to tighten it back up. This is a small detail usually only found on hand-made Japanese tsuba and is indicative of the level of care and craftsmanship given to these swords by Citadel.

The "tsuka" or handle and "saya" or scabbard are hand carved to fit each individual blade ensuring a proper fit. The handle is wrapped in genuine imported silk form Japan and tightly wrapped around the full same-gawa or ray skin wrap around the wooden core. The saya is lacquered in black to a nice semi-gloss finish with a ray skin wrap near the mouth of the saya to strengthen this area.

In hand this sword feels as if it is a natural extension to your arm, a truly exceptional experience.