Damascus Steel Tanto with Green Lacquer Saya - Bronze Tsuba, Teal Cord Handle, Real Hamon

The blade on this tanto is forged from folded melaleuca steel - the same pattern-welded construction known in the West as Damascus steel. Repeated folding and forge-welding produces a layered internal grain that reads as a flowing wavy pattern on the polished surface. A genuine hamon line traces the transition zone created during differential heat treatment, giving the blade a visual depth that single-steel construction cannot replicate. The full tang extends through the entire handle for structural integrity. If you're exploring Handmade Tanto options, this blade's construction represents one of the more labor-intensive approaches in the category.

The tsuka is wrapped in teal cord using a traditional diamond-pattern ito technique over real white samegawa (ray-skin). The ivory-toned ray-skin diamonds show through the wrap at regular intervals, creating a precise geometric rhythm along the grip. Gold-tone menuki accents are embedded within the wrap, adding a subtle decorative detail visible on close inspection.

The bronze tsuba is cast with a samurai-theme relief scene featuring ornate scroll detailing across its circular face. The warm copper-bronze tone sits naturally between the silver blade and the teal handle wrap, anchoring the color palette with a mid-tone that reads as both aged and intentional. Bronze develops a gradual patina over time - a quality many collectors consider an asset rather than wear.

The green hardwood saya is finished in premium natural lacquer with fine gold-fleck detailing scattered across the surface, giving it depth that plain lacquer cannot achieve. Real horn fittings at the koiguchi (mouth) and kojiri (tip) provide structural reinforcement at the most contact-prone points. A green-white braided sageo cord is tied at the kurikata, completing the full koshirae presentation. For collectors focused on green colorway pieces, this saya is the visual centerpiece of the entire set - browse the full Green Tanto collection for additional options.

At 21.65 in overall length, 1.26 in blade width, and 1.54 lb, this tanto occupies the compact end of the Japanese short-blade spectrum. The combination of folded Damascus steel, bronze fittings, real samegawa, and gold-fleck lacquered saya positions it as a collector-grade piece where every component was chosen for visual and material coherence. Stand not included.