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Specifications

Hand-forged Ouryu Katana (應龍 — "Responding Dragon") in T10 tool steel with genuine hamon. Full tang, sharpened. Carved copper tsuba with intertwined twin dragons in silver and gold surrounded by sculpted clouds, brass-and-copper habaki with openwork crackle pattern, black cotton ito over genuine rayskin, gold-plated menuki, black lacquered saya, black sageo. Includes natural wood display stand with 武 (Bu) kanji. Two dragons, one guard — the most sculptural tsuba in our catalog after the Ginkai and Ryujin.

Ouryu Katana Specifications

Blade Steel T10 Tool Steel — Genuine Hamon
Blade Finish Polished with visible hamon temper line
Construction Full Tang, Hand-forged, Sharpened
Overall Length 105 cm / 41 in
Blade Length 72 cm / 28 in
Blade Width 3.2 cm / 1.2 in
Blade Thickness 0.7 cm / 0.27 in
Handle Length 30 cm / 11.8 in
Tsuba (Guard) Copper — twin intertwined dragons (silver + gold) with cloud relief
Habaki Brass + copper — openwork crackle pattern
Ito Black cotton
Rayskin (Same) Genuine (white)
Menuki Gold-plated
Saya (Scabbard) Black lacquered solid wood
Includes Katana + saya + natural wood stand with 武 kanji

 

Twin Dragon Tsuba — Silver and Gold Intertwined

The tsuba features two dragons sculpted in full three-dimensional relief — one in silver tones, one in gold, their bodies coiling around and through each other across the copper guard face. Sculpted clouds fill the negative space between them. Each dragon's scales are individually defined, heads positioned at opposite ends of the guard, the composition designed so that every viewing angle reveals a different relationship between the two forms. The Ryujin has a single coiled dragon; the Ginkai has a blade-engraved dragon; the Ouryu katana puts two intertwined dragons on the guard itself — the most complex sculptural tsuba composition in our lineup.

T10 Blade with Genuine Hamon

The blade is forged from T10 tool steel — tungsten-content high-carbon steel reaching 60-62 HRC. The visible hamon temper line runs the blade's length, the boundary between hardened edge and softer spine clearly defined on the polished surface. T10 provides the functional backbone that justifies the ornate guard: a blade this well-constructed earns the right to carry metalwork this elaborate. The Ouryu katana does not compensate for mediocre steel with busy decoration — it matches premium steel with premium art.

Gold Menuki & Genuine Rayskin

Gold-plated menuki (grip ornaments) sit beneath the black cotton ito wrapping, visible as small gold accents along the handle. Genuine white rayskin (samegawa) provides the grip foundation beneath the ito — the natural nodular texture that defines quality katana construction. The gold menuki tie the handle to the tsuba's gold dragon, maintaining the bicolor metalwork theme from guard through grip. The Ouryu is the only blade in our catalog featuring gold-plated menuki — a detail that rewards close inspection.

Ouryu — The Responding Dragon

Ouryu (應龍) means "responding dragon" — the dragon that answers a call, that arrives when summoned, that acts in partnership rather than alone. In Chinese-Japanese mythology, paired dragons represent complementary forces: yin and yang, silver and gold, receptive and active. The twin dragons on this blade's guard do not fight for dominance — they flow together, each defined by the presence of the other. The Ouryu katana embodies that philosophy: strength through craftsmanship partnership — smith forging the blade, metalworker sculpting the guard, each discipline contributing to a unified result neither could achieve alone.

Display

Ships with a natural wood stand bearing 武 (Bu — "martial") kanji. The Ouryu pairs with the Ryujin (single coiled dragon tsuba) and Ginkai (engraved blade dragon) for a three-blade dragon showcase — each telling its dragon story through a different technique. Solo, the twin dragon tsuba commands attention from any distance while the T10 blade rewards close examination of the hamon line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Ouryu mean?

Ouryu (應龍) means "responding dragon" — a dragon that answers a summons, acts in concert with others. The twin dragons on the tsuba embody complementary partnership rather than solitary dominance.

Are the two dragons different metals?

The dragons are sculpted from the same copper base with different plating — one finished in silver tones, the other in gold. The bicolor treatment creates visual distinction between the twin forms as they intertwine.

Is this Ouryu katana sharp?

Yes. The T10 tool steel blade is hand-sharpened and functional. Handle with care, store in the saya, and check local regulations before ordering.

Is the rayskin genuine?

Yes. Genuine white rayskin (samegawa) beneath the black cotton ito. The nodular texture is natural, not synthetic.

What are menuki?

Menuki are small ornamental grip accents placed beneath the ito (cord wrapping) on a katana handle. They provide a subtle tactile and visual accent. On the Ouryu, the menuki are gold-plated, matching the gold dragon on the tsuba.

Legal Disclaimer

By purchasing from Katana Corp, you acknowledge and agree that:

  • You are at least 18 years of age (or the age of majority in your jurisdiction).

  • You are solely responsible for verifying and complying with all local laws and import regulations before placing an order.

  • Some countries prohibit the importation of swords entirely. Katana Corp is not responsible for orders delayed, seized, or refused by customs authorities.

  • All katanas and related products are sold strictly as decorative and display items. They are not intended or certified for combat use.

  • Depending on the jurisdiction, swords may legally be considered bladed weapons, subject to specific restrictions or prohibitions.

  • Katana Corp disclaims all liability for any injury, damage, or legal consequences resulting from misuse, abuse, or unlawful use of its products.

For full details, please refer to our Terms of Service.

Care & Maintenance

To maintain your katana's appearance and performance over time, we recommend:

- Regularly wiping the blade with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints and moisture.
- Applying a light coat of choji oil to prevent rust (for carbon steel blades).
- Storing the sword in a dry place, preferably inside its saya.
- Avoiding direct contact with hard surfaces to preserve sharpness and finish.

For more care tips, check our full maintenance guide in the FAQ section.

Behind the Blade

Every katana we offer carries the essence of centuries-old craftsmanship.

More than just a weapon, the katana symbolizes discipline, honor, and mastery.

Our artisans draw inspiration from traditional forging methods to ensure each blade reflects the spirit of the samurai — strength, precision, and soul.

Owning one is not just about aesthetics — it’s about carrying a piece of that legacy.

User Experience

This katana is designed to offer a perfect balance between blade and handle.

Its ergonomic tsuka (handle) allows a secure two-handed grip, while the weight distribution ensures smooth, fluid movement.

Whether for training, display or cutting practice, handling feels natural and precise.

Excellent

4.6/5  ·  103 reviews

1 week ago

Good sword, small issue on arrival

Saya mouth was slightly loose when I got it, fitting tape sorted it. Balance is great though. People at my dojo always ask about it.

JR
Jake R.
California, US
Verified
3 days ago

Way better than I expected

Hamon is clean, handle wrap tight, saya closes solid. Came in a wooden box. No complaints at all for the price.

MD
Marcus D.
Texas, US
Verified
2 weeks ago

Got it as a gift, he was speechless

Bought for my boyfriend who does iaido. He said the fit and finish were legit. I knew nothing about swords, site made it easy to pick.

SK
Stephanie K.
New York, US
Verified
1 month ago

Nice blade but took 2 weeks to arrive

Damascus looks great. Shipping to Portland took forever and tracking was dead for a week. Quality is there, logistics need work.

BC
Brian C.
Oregon, US
Verified
1 month ago

Third order, still no complaints

Ordered three times over two years. Always well packed, matches the photos. Support replied same day. Will keep coming back.

DW
Darnell W.
Georgia, US
Verified
The Art of Traditional Forging

The Art of Traditional Forging

Each katana we craft is born from centuries of samurai tradition.

Our master smiths shape every blade by hand, folding the steel to achieve unmatched strength, flexibility, and beauty.

This time-honored process is not just about creating a weapon? it’s about preserving a legacy of discipline, honor, and artistry.

Materials Chosen Without Compromise

Materials Chosen Without Compromise

We select only the highest-grade steels and authentic fittings to ensure every katana is both a masterpiece and a reliable companion.

From the flawless hamon line to the perfectly balanced tang, each detail is carefully inspected to meet the highest standards of performance and aesthetics.

More Than a Sword, A Lifelong Legacy

More Than a Sword, A Lifelong Legacy

Owning a handmade katana is an experience that goes beyond the blade itself. It’s holding history, tradition, and craftsmanship in your hands.

Whether displayed as a work of art or wielded with precision, your katana will stand as a symbol of timeless skill and dedication for generations to come.