1060 Carbon Steel Katana with Hand-Painted Dragon Saya in White Lacquer - Black Iron Wave Tsuba

The blade is forged from 1060 carbon steel and ground to a full-tang construction that runs the entire length of the handle core. At 40.55 inches overall with a spine thickness of 0.275 inches and a width of 1.259 inches, the blade carries a smooth chrome-polished surface that catches light along its gentle curvature. The steel offers the structural integrity expected from a 1060 Katana, making it a solid choice for collectors who want both visual presence and reliable build quality.

The tsuka is built over a hardwood core wrapped in black PU samegawa, then bound in black cord using a traditional diamond-pattern tsukamaki. Gold-tone menuki are set beneath the wrapping at regular intervals, visible between the diamond gaps and adding warm metallic detail against the all-black handle. The grip weighs in as part of a balanced 2.8 lb. total, sitting comfortably in hand without front-heaviness.

The iron tsuba is one of the most visually striking components on this piece. Cast in a dark gunmetal finish, it carries a deeply engraved wave motif across its surface, with a bold gold-tone inlaid accent at the center that draws the eye immediately. The wave carving has sharp definition and pairs naturally with the ocean-and-dragon theme running through the scabbard artwork.

The saya is where this katana makes its clearest statement. Formed from hardwood and sealed under premium natural lacquer, the white ground coat provides a clean canvas for a fully hand-painted dragon scene. The artwork spans the length of the scabbard and includes cobalt blue scales, crimson red highlights, gold detailing, and layered wave and floral elements - all locked beneath a high-gloss lacquer topcoat. A white sageo is tied at the kurigata, echoing the saya's base color and keeping the overall palette cohesive.

At 2.8 lb. and packaged in a 42.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inch box, this katana ships ready for wall display or case presentation. The koshirae-style fitting set - tsuba, fuchi, kashira, and habaki unified in black and gold tones - gives the piece a composed, complete look from tip to pommel. For those exploring the broader range of Authentic Katana options, this dragon saya variant stands out through its hand-applied artwork and the contrast between the white lacquered scabbard and the dark tsuka fittings.