Artisanal Japanese wakizashi “Hoshizora”

A functional Japanese sword forged according to ancestral tradition

"Hoshizora" (星空) – Starry Sky : this name evokes the magic of a Japanese night, where every detail of this handcrafted wakizashi tells a story. Its deep midnight green lacquered saya , enhanced with golden nashiji flecks, recalls the Milky Way piercing through the darkness. The clay-tempered T10 steel blade reveals a unique hammered tsuchime finish , where each hammer mark captures the light like a constellation.

📜Description

Origin & spirit

Compact and agile, the wakizashi embodied the samurai's companion blade. The Hoshizora model captures this spirit: a sober black hilt, a shimmering "starry sky" scabbard, and a confident presence without ostentation.

This is not simply a collector's sword: it is a functional wakizashi forged to order , designed for the practice of tameshigiri (traditional cutting) and intended for discerning collectors who seek the authenticity of a real hamon – that undulating temper line, the signature of traditional Japanese swords.

Traditional Forging & Manufacturing

The age-old alliance of fire, steel, and patience

T10 Steel – The choice of discerning swordsmiths: This blade is crafted from high-carbon steel (1.0%) , a premium material prized for its ability to achieve exceptional hardness (up to 60 HRC after quenching) while maintaining resilience for a formidable and long-lasting edge . T10 represents the perfect balance between cutting performance and durability – a standard in the contemporary forging of authentic Japanese swords.

Handcrafted forging and hammering: Each blade is hand-forged and then hammered to create the signature tsuchime finish – thousands of micro-facets that capture and scatter light like a night sky. This texture is not merely aesthetic: it reduces grip during cutting (minimizing the suction effect), facilitates penetration into targets, and testifies to authentic workshop craftsmanship , far removed from uniform industrial production.

Yaki-ire – Differential Clay Quenching: Faithful to methods passed down for centuries, the blade undergoes selective clay quenching : refractory clay applied to the spine and sides slows the cooling process, creating a difference in hardness between the ultra-hard edge (ha) and the softer spine (mune). This thermal alchemy gives rise to the authentic hamon – that undulating, crystalline, and unique temper line on each blade, the very DNA of the traditionally forged sword.

Geometry and structure:

• 7 mm thickness at the silk (nakago) ensuring structural rigidity and impact resistance
• Traditional shinogi-zukuri profile with a pronounced ridgeline
• Regular and balanced geometry for optimal percussion center during dynamic cuts
• Gradual manual sharpening to a razor-sharp edge, ready for tameshigiri

Frame & details

A traditional assembly where each element tells the story of the art of the Japanese sword.

Saya (sheath): Solid hardwood covered in a deep midnight green lacquer with a nashiji effect – this ancient technique inlays fine gold glitter that shimmers like stars scattered across the night sky. The black sageo (carrying cord) of braided cotton completes this refined and mysterious aesthetic.

Habaki (blade collar): Forged from finely worked solid brass , this essential element ensures a perfect locking of the blade in its sheath while adding a touch of golden elegance in contact with the steel.

Tsuka (handle): Classic black assembly with traditional inspiration revealing:

• Diamond-shaped pieces of white samegawa (genuine or superior quality stingray skin) protrude beneath the braiding, providing a natural non-slip grip
• A dark, openwork tsuba (guard) with intricate patterns, protecting the hand while maintaining the perfect balance of the sword.
• Tight ito (cord) braiding using ancestral techniques for optimal grip

Fuchi & Kashira (handle ferrules): Made of alloy

The meticulous finish creates a harmonious whole.

Uses & Benefits

Balanced for dojo and collection , with a sharp blade capable of cutting straw mats (tatami) . Ideal for cutting demonstrations and display on a stand, with an instantly recognizable visual signature.

For whom? Practitioners of iaido , battojutsu , collectors of authentic Japanese swords, and all those looking for a wakizashi combining aesthetic beauty and cutting performance.

⚙️ Technical specifications

Total length	76 cm
Blade length (Nagasa)	51 cm
Blade width	3.2 cm
Blade thickness	7 mm
Blade steel	T10 (high-end)
Type of forge	Traditional hammering, full length (full tang)
Hardness	≈ 60 HRC
Hamon	Real (clay-tempered)
Sheath (Saya)	Lacquered hardwood, 56 cm long
Handle length (Tsuka)	24 cm
Sleeve coating	Lacquered hardwood
Fittings	Brass Habaki
Sharpening	Sharpened (razor-sharp)
Accessories included	Sword case – cardboard packaging

⚒️ Forging, Finishing & Customization upon request

Each Sabre is a unique piece, assembled and forged by hand with care and precision.
Customize yours to your liking: choice of steel, sheath color, braiding style, engraving, and much more.

You can also create a 100% custom Sabre by mixing elements from our existing models (blade, guard, saya, braiding, etc.) to forge a truly unique weapon.

➡️ This customization service is available upon request for an additional quote in the following section:
⚒️ Custom design/personalization workshop

🔞 Sale reserved for +18 years.
Decorative/collectible item. Carrying and transport prohibited in public places. Keep out of reach of minors. Comply with the laws of your country.