This set contains an authentically made katana and wakizashi. The two weapons together were called the daisho, which literally means big-small, and represented the social power and personal honor of the samurai.The long blade was used for open combat, while the shorter blade was considered a side arm, more suited for stabbing, close combat (such as indoors).

The blades of both weapons feature hand-forged, high carbon steel, differentially tempered using the traditional clay-coat method, fullers that run the length of the blade, and a very prominent hamon (temper line). The tsuba is oxidized copper, as are all of the furnishings on both pieces. The tsuka is wood wrapped in ray skin, with Japanese cotton used for the tsuka-ito. The saya is blue laquered wood, with Japanese cotton used again for the sageo. Every one of these pieces is individually numbered on the tang of the blade and comes with paperwork to authenticate the item.

Katana
BLADE: 32"

TSUKA: 11"

OVERALL: 43 1/4"

Wakizashi
BLADE: 22"

TSUKA: 9 1/2"
OVERALL: 31 3/4"