This is a hand made razor sharp entry level practical shirasaya style katana sword. . The Shirasaya first came into use when the sword smiths needed a place to temporarily store their sword blades. Newly forged katana swords were often stored in wooden sheath to store until they could be fitted. After sword carrying was banned in Japan, some Samurais uses Shirasaya style katana to conceal their swords. Nowadays, the Shirasaya is presented as a different style of Samurai sword. This sword is made with high temper carbon steel that can cut steel wire without chipping, and it can cut through bamboos easily. It is a full tang sword and can be fully disassembled. The blade was fully hand sharpened with a visible temper line. The saya and tsuka of the sword is constructed by hard wood, and finished with beautiful natural gloss finish. When enclosed, the saya and tsuka becomes one solid piece. The Sword is measured at 38.75” overall long, the blade is measured at 28.5” long. <p>To protect the blade from corrosion, a layer of mineral oil has been applied prior to packaging. Please understand you may find the blade cover in oil residue that make the sword look dirty/used, however, this is a necessary protection for the carbon steel blade not rusting. You may also find minor scratches on the blade that is formed during the hammering process. These are not signs of a used product. If you are not satisfied with the condition of the katana upon receiving it, please contact us for a replacement. </p>