Dragon Koshirae Katana (Juka Choji Hamon）

This Dragon Koshirae Katana from Z-Sey combines both aesthetics and functionality. This lethal work of art has a Shinogi Zukuri (curved blade with yokote and shinogi close to the mune) blade forged from smelted steel that has been improved by Z-Sey's team. The blade is then differentially hardened, clay tempered, and Sashikomi Grade A++ polished to reveal an intricate Juka Choji (clustered clove buds) hamon.

As its name implies, the koshirae for this katana has dragon motifs, a symbol of wisdom, prosperity, and strength in the Japanese culture. It is equipped with a maru gata (round) iron tsuba, double colored white copper fuchi kashira, dragon style sterling silver menuki, nickel plated brass seppa, and Yoko Yasuri style white copper habaki.

The handmade Haichi style tsuka is secured to the blade with a mekugi and covered in white large emperor node samegawa, wrapped in creamy white Japanese silk ito.

The Urushi saya is fully handmade and fitted with horn koiguchi, kurigata, kojiri, white copper shitodome, and creamy white Japanese silk sageo. The term "Urushi" here refers to the sap from the lacquer tree which is closely related to poison ivy. It naturally cures beautifully to create a wonderful luster through oxidization and polymerization, hardening into a tough and scratch resistant surface that is impervious to water, acids, bases, minor heat, and even alcohol. Today, the meticulous use of urushi is declining due to the skills required.

With more than 30 steps involved and each step taking at least two to three days, some patience from our clients is required as there are many factors such as humidity and temperature that affects its production. However, the urushi saya is definitely worth the wait.