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Clay Tempered
Discover the art of clay-tempered katana — traditional Japanese swords crafted using the 土塗り焼き入れ technique. Each blade is clay tempered, combining the toughness of the core steel with a sharp, resilient edge, producing the classic hamon pattern.Perfect for collectors, martial artists, and enthusiasts, our battle ready katana feature clay tempered steel for maximum strength and cutting performance. With blades tempered for precision and durability, these swords demonstrate the traditional mastery of tempering a blade while offering modern reliability.We recommend T10 steel for clay tempering, as it produces the most consistent and beautiful edge, making it ideal for swords that are both functional and display-worthy.
The Clay-Tempered Katana series showcases the centuries-old 土塗り焼き入れ technique, where clay is applied to the blade during forging to create a hard edge and a softer spine. This process enhances katana sharpness, balance, and durability, making them ideal for cutting practice or display.
Each clay tempered katana is made with precision, often using T10 steel, which is the most suitable material for clay tempering due to its consistent hardness and ability to form a beautiful hamon. Compared to folded steel, clay tempered katana deliver superior edge retention and cutting performance, giving collectors and martial artists a battle ready katana that combines tradition and function.
What is clay tempered?
Clay tempered refers to the process of applying clay to a blade during forging. The clay slows cooling on the spine while the edge cools faster, creating a hard cutting edge and softer spine, resulting in the classic hamon pattern.
Is clay tempered good?
Yes, clay tempering produces a blade with excellent katana sharpness, flexibility, and durability. It is ideal for both functional swords and collector’s pieces.
What does tempering clay mean?
It is the process of coating the katana blade with clay before quenching, controlling the cooling rate and creating a hard edge with a tough spine.
What is tempering of clay?
Same as clay tempering — using clay as a heat insulator to achieve differential hardness across the blade.
Clay Tempered vs Folded Steel Katana — what’s the difference?
Folded steel enhances material homogeneity and removes impurities. Clay tempered katana focuses on edge performance, creating a hard edge with a softer spine. Many blades combine both techniques for the best of both worlds.
What steel is best for clay tempering?
We recommend T10 steel for clay tempered katana. It offers excellent hardness, consistent performance, and produces the most beautiful hamon.
Can clay tempered katana be used in battle or cutting practice?
Yes, properly made clay tempered katana are battle ready katana, suitable for cutting practice, martial arts, or display.