Hanwei Tanto Great Wave Tomoe

This Great Wave Tanto by Hanwei is extremely unique with a blade handforged from T10 tool steel, an alloy that has properties similar to 1095 carbon steel. However, the presence of added silicon helps to improve the blade's strength and edge retention. As seen in this tanto, the differential heat treatment and clay tempering process also results in a prominent and attractive midareba hamon. This blade also has a bohi that helps to reduce the overall weight of the dagger while improving its point of balance.

As its name implies, this tanto is equipped with blackened iron koshirae and displays the Tomoe motif that is often seen in family crests and shrines. While the tomoe's use ranges between one to four, three tomoe circumscribed in a circle is known as mitsudomoe, as seen in this dagger. One of the most unique characteristics for this piece is its tsuka, which is designed to be ribbed and made of buffalo horn. The tanto is then completed with a deeply lacquered black saya with black sageo.

This design is also available as the Great Wave Katana (SH5004) and Wakizashi (SH5002), ideal for those looking for a Daisho set.