What are the most important things to know before buying a first Japanese sword?
Updated Feb 2026
Before buying a first Japanese sword, three areas of understanding make the purchase significantly better. First, understand the construction standards: full-tang, high-carbon steel, and proper heat treatment are the markers of a genuine sword rather than a decorative piece. Know what these mean and how to identify them in a product description or by examination. Second, understand the maintenance requirement: carbon steel blades require periodic oiling and should be wiped clean after handling. This is a simple routine but it is non-negotiable for long-term preservation of the blade. Stainless steel blades require less maintenance but are not used in genuine Japanese sword production at quality levels, so choosing carbon steel means committing to the care routine. Third, understand the display requirements: a katana needs approximately 115 centimeters of clear horizontal space in its saya, and appropriate display hardware - a horizontal stand with properly spaced pegs - positions the sword correctly. With these three areas understood, the first purchase is well-informed and the experience of owning a Japanese sword can be fully appreciated from the beginning.