10 Best Katanas 2026 in the United States

The CAS Hanwei Tonbo Katana, with its hand-forged and folded powder steel blade, promises high durability and cutting performance. Its 28-inch blade length is within the traditional range for katanas, making it suitable for martial arts practitioners and collectors alike.

The katana also features a real silk sageo, which adds to its traditional aesthetic and authenticity. Traditional construction techniques further enhance its appeal to enthusiasts who value craftsmanship. The handle, made out of steel and iron, might be less comfortable over extended use compared to traditional materials like wood wrapped in ray skin and silk.

The tsuba (guard) style is brass, which is classic and functional but may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences. Weighing 3.9 pounds, the katana is on the heavier side, which could affect its balance and ease of use for some users. Ideal for general outdoor use, it may be better suited for display or light training rather than intense martial practice. A strong contender within its price range, this katana is a good pick for collectors and light users but may fall short for those needing a lighter, more traditionally constructed handle.

The CAS Hanwei Oni Katana is built with a high-carbon steel blade measuring 29 inches, which is a suitable length for practical martial arts use and display. Its blade is made from L6 bainite steel, recognized for durability and sharpness, offering a sturdy edge hardness rating of 58~60 HRC, allowing it to hold sharpness well without being too brittle.

The handle incorporates traditional materials including high-carbon steel and iron, providing solid construction and a good grip for martial artists. Weighing around 3 pounds, it balances strength and maneuverability effectively, making it appropriate for training or demonstration purposes.

This sword is ideal for martial artists or enthusiasts seeking a strong, functional blade with traditional elements rather than collectors focused on precise historical replicas. Its design style is noted as Western, which may differ from traditional Japanese katanas in aesthetics or ergonomics.

The CAS Hanwei SH2465 Koi Katana is a traditionally constructed Japanese sword that features a 28.5-inch high-carbon steel blade. High-carbon steel is known for its durability and sharpness, making it an excellent choice for a katana designed for cutting. The sword comes with a protective bag, which is a nice addition for storage and transport. It has a traditional Japanese style, which should appeal to enthusiasts of martial arts and collectors alike.

The handle, or Tsuka, is made from a combination of high-carbon, steel, and iron materials, providing a robust grip that complements the sword’s balance. The Tsuba, or guard, adds to the authenticity and functionality of the sword, ensuring the user’s hand is protected during use. One of the key strengths of this katana is its traditional construction, which indicates attention to detail and adherence to historical craftsmanship methods.

It is worth noting that the weight of the sword is a bit on the heavier side at 2 pounds, which might be a consideration for those preferring a lighter weapon for more agile use. The CAS Hanwei SH2465 Koi Katana is a solid choice for those looking for a durable and traditionally crafted Japanese sword.