The katana‘s tang plays a crucial role in its stability and durability. Among the different types of blades, the full tang katana is by far the highest quality. This article explores in detail what a full tang katana is all about, from its craftsmanship to its practical advantages.
Origin and etymology
The expression “full tang” refers to the part of the blade below the handle (the Nakago). Indeed, the tang is the part of the blade that extends into the hilt. Thus, in a full tang katana, the blade extends the full length of the handle (or tsuka), offering greater continuity and strength.
Only buy a Katana Full Tang
Whether for martial practice or as a collector’s item, the full tang katana is not only functional but also respects Japanese craftsmanship and samurai tradition.
A katana without full tang is not only inferior but also dangerous to use for cutting. For this reason, we strongly recommend buying a full tang katana. For your information, all KatanaEmpire sharp katanas are full tang, whether they are our anime katanas or our collector’s katanas.
Full tang vs. partial tang
When it comes to katanas, the distinction between full tang and partial tang is crucial.
Full tang
A full tang katana means that the tang of the blade extends the full length of the handle (Tsuka). This design ensures a strong, continuous connection between the blade and handle, guaranteeing maximum strength and stability. Full tang is often preferred by swordsmiths for high-quality katanas, as it ensures that the sword can withstand powerful blows and intensive use without breakage.
Partial tang
On the other hand, a partial tang katana has a tang that extends only partially into the handle. This construction is often less costly to produce, but can present structural weaknesses. Partial tang may be more vulnerable to breakage, especially under high percussive forces, as there is less material to absorb and distribute shocks.
Comparison
Full tang katanas are generally more expensive due to the extra work and materials required to craft them, but they offer superior safety and reliability. Partial tang katanas may be sufficient for decoration or very light practice but are not recommended for cutting demonstrations or intensive martial use. The risk of breakage and injury is much higher.
Advantages of full tang katana
A full tang katana offers several key advantages, making it a prime choice for serious practitioners and collectors alike.
Increased solidity
Solidity is one of the main advantages of a full tang katana. The continuity between the blade and the handle distributes forces evenly, reducing the risk of the katana breaking at the guard, the meguki, etc. This design ensures that the katana can withstand powerful blows without compromising its integrity, and provides increased cutting strength.
Perfect balance
Thanks to its full tang extension, a full tang katana offers optimized balance. This translates into better handling and greater precision in movements and strikes. Perfect balance is crucial for practitioners of kendo, iaido, and other Japanese martial arts.
Durability and longevity
Full tang katanas are built to last. The durability of this design means that the weapon can withstand intensive use and continue to perform effectively over time. The quality of materials, such as high-carbon steel, and forging techniques contribute to this longevity.
Safety and reliability
For martial arts practitioners, safety is essential. A full tang katana offers superior reliability, minimizing the risk of accidents due to blade breakage or handle failure. This increased safety enables users to concentrate fully on their practice without fear of weapon failure, as is the case in kendo and iaido.
Aesthetic and historical value
Finally, full tang katanas are often most appreciated for their aesthetic appeal and historical authenticity. Traditional swordsmanship techniques, such as steel bending and meticulous polishing, give these katanas incomparable beauty and quality, making them unique and sought-after collector’s items.
How is crafted a full tang katana?
Crafting a full tang katana is a complex process requiring specialized forging and assembly skills.
Choice of steel
The steel used to craft these katanas is often high-carbon steel, renowned for its hardness and ability to maintain a sharp edge. This steel is often bent and forged several times to create a uniform, resistant structure.
Forging and hardening
Katana forging involves repeated hammering to obtain the desired shape. Once the blade has been shaped, it undergoes a special tempering process. This crucial step involves heating the blade and rapidly cooling it in a cold water bath. The blade is sometimes coated with clay before tempering to create a distinct curvature (or sori) and Hamon (temper line).
Polishing and finishing
After tempering, the blade is meticulously polished to reveal the hamon and refine the edge. Polishing is essential not only for aesthetics but also for the blade’s performance.
Component assembly
A full tang katana is made up of several components carefully assembled to guarantee the sword’s safety and functionality.
Handle (Tsuka) and its components
The Tsuka is generally made of wood covered with stingray skin (Samegawa) and wrapped in cotton or leather in a complex weave. The ornaments (menuki) and guard (tsuba) not only add an aesthetic touch but also provide functional protection.
Blade and tang
The katana blade is firmly fixed in the Tsuka by an extended tail (Nakago) which is inserted into the wood and secured by 1 or 2 bamboo meguki. A collar (Habaki) and fitted tsuba prevent the blade from falling out, guaranteeing maximum safety.