Top Handmade Japanese Officer Type 97 Type 98 Katna Sword Clay Tempered Damascus Folded Steel Hadori-Polish Razor Sharp

Starting off, I've seen this exact sword offered at a much higher price from other Chinese vendors, so this was a great deal. Shipping (SF Express) was faster than estimated, and the sword arrived safe in the classic Styrofoam taped-up container. It came with a basic sword bag and the odd add-ons of an empty oil spray bottle (apparently sending the oil overseas is restricted) and a soft brush for cleaning. It did not come with the displayed red and black tassel, but a shorter black and white version, so I'm replacing that (tassels also available on Amazon). Funny, I'd been planning on buying a black and white for another sword, so I just swapped it and ordered the red and black. As for the sword itself, getting the Cons out of the way: The brass fixtures look antiqued in the photos but are actually just painted over with a brown enamel--an easy fix if I decide to change the look. And... that's it for the negatives. The fit and finish are all very good. I'm especially impressed with the scabbard fit and lock, both very smooth. The weather cover is soft real leather, and the scabbard has an olive paint job underneath. The wood lining of the scabbard has a clean fit with the scabbard mouth. The fixtures, though obviously brighter than antiques, are pretty authentic and have much better detail than less-expensive reproductions I have. The Ito wrap is tight and fairly even with real Same underneath. The blade, at first glance, does not look folded as the Hada is not prominent, but is subtly visible on close inspection. (Prominent grain, while pretty to look at, might risk flaws in the steel.) The straight temper line (Hamon) is extremely well done, and the blade is nicely sharp and tests as properly hardened. Most surprisingly, the blade is quite light in hand and well-balanced. Between the blade dynamics and the smooth scabbard, this sword is exceptionally fast and maneuverable. I love it. I haven't seen many reviews yet for Murasame offerings, but based on this example I have confidence in their products, and wouldn't hesitate to buy from them again.

Murasame knocked it out of the park with this one. This is a real sword. The quality and balance. Very sharp with a beautiful blade. Ito wrap is nice and tight. Great job Murasame.

One thing that can improve, the naval sword knots were all brown regardless of rank if I'm not mistaken. I am posting pictures from the USNA museum.

There is a lot of quality and attention to detail in this Sword. I'm very happy with the attention to detail and overall quality. It is a beautiful piece but also a weapon, and very sharp, so ensure you have a safe place to keep it away from children.

This type 98 with straight hamon is perfect! The fitings are beautiful and the craftsmanship is top notch. The scabbard lock up and fitting is excellent. The blade is stunning with a beautiful polish. The shipping was faster then expected. I will buy the type 97 next. I highly recommend Murasame swords.

Everything's top notch, will definitely be buying more blades from murasame!

This is my 2nd time buying this sword from murasame. My first was unfortunately stolen so I had to get another. I'm very pleased with this one just like i was the first one... they have very good customer service and as fast as shipping something from china can be.

I am not Katana expert. I do collect high end knives and have become familiar with the nuances of the difference between a decent knife vs a coustom high end knife. This Katana makes me struggle to find the tells of a production knife vs a one of custom build. The blade is flawless. The wrap is very tight. The only thing that really shows production vs a coustom is the painted brass cap and rings. A petinad brass would have made this katana more difficult to decern between a reproduction vs restored original. I would have been giving a five star review even if I had paid 1500.00! My wife is now worried I will be shifting my interest from collectable fix blades and folders to swords! (It's a space concern) You cannot go wrong adding this to your collection.