John Lee Shirasaya Or So Much

Discover John Lee Shirasaya O Tanto

John lee shirasaya o-tanto



Hand forged samurai sword from the john lee series



The tanto is particularly large and, with its total length of 57 cm, much longer than usual.



Masterpieces of Asian blacksmithing

- The sword blades are hand forged in carbon steel and hardened in a traditional way.

- The sharp blades have been provided with a bo-hi (channel) to reduce weight.

- The sword's rods are particularly long and are attached to the handle with two bamboo pegs (mekugi). This means that the sword can be completely disassembled.

- The blade clamps (habaki) are made of metal.

- The handles and covers (saya) are made of wood.



Shirasaya was a special type of sword stand to better and more gently store the blade overnight or when not in use for a long time. The advantage of untreated magnolia wood was its low acid content and the absence of other ingredients that could damage the blade. It was not treated afterwards, but rather absorbed the resulting moisture from the sword and directed it outwards. The tanto remained dry and did not rust.



Shirasaya were often provided with an inscription ('sayagaki') containing information about the blade, such as the origin, place and time of forging and the name of the smith and expert. Since the emperor banned the carrying of bladed weapons in the late 19th century, all decoration around the handle and tsuba was reduced and the shirasaya outfit we know today was created. The user was not particularly noticeable due to the tanto's similarity to a sword or wooden staff and had the opportunity to carry it with him.



Details:

- Handle length: approx. 21cm

- Blade length: approx. 34 cm

- Total length: (without cover) approx. 55 cm

- Weight: (without case) approx. 480g



Please note:

This item is only sold to persons over 18 years of age. Please enter your date of birth on our order form. We also require a copy of your ID/driver's license or similar by email, scan, fax or post.

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