Handcrafted Japanese Katana “Monohoshizāo” - 物干し竿

The blade that defies time

A modern incarnation of Sasaki Kojirō's legendary nodachi , the " Monohoshizao "—literally "clothes-drying pole" —captures the essence of an era when swordsmanship transcended the art of combat. Forged using traditional Japanese techniques, this clay-tempered 1095 steel nodachi katana reveals an authentic hamon undulating along its 95 cm blade. Each piece is crafted to order by artisans perpetuating millennia-old skills, creating an exceptional sword for discerning martial artists, knowledgeable collectors, and enthusiasts of Japanese sword culture.

📜Description: The Art of the Sword at its Pinnacle

⛩️ Genesis and Philosophy: In the Shadow of Master Kojirō

The Monohoshizao takes its name and spirit from the iconic weapon of Sasaki Kojirō , the legendary swordsman and rival of Miyamoto Musashi. Its sleek and imposing silhouette – characteristic of ōdachi – offers exceptional reach and a fluid, instantly recognizable design.

Far more than a simple tool, this nodachi embodies the philosophy of "ma" —space and time—allowing its wielder to control distance with millimeter precision. Its unusual length makes it a formidable weapon for anticipatory striking techniques, while demanding absolute technical mastery.

What is a Nodachi?

When the Blade Crosses the Limits

The nodachi (野太刀) – literally "field sword" – also called ōdachi (大太刀, "great sword") represents the pinnacle of Japanese swords in terms of size. With blades typically exceeding 90 cm (compared to 60-73 cm for a standard katana), the nodachi occupies a unique position within the samurai arsenal.

Traditional Forging: When Steel Meets Soul

1095 high carbon steel – the choice of Japanese master blacksmiths for its ability to maintain a razor-sharp edge while retaining the flexibility required for cutting techniques.

Differential clay tempering is the hallmark of authentic Japanese katanas. By applying a thicker layer of clay to the back of the blade before tempering, our artisans create two zones with distinct properties:

• Hardened cutting edge (ha): 60 HRC, for exceptional cutting capacity
• Flexible back (mune): 55 HRC, shock-absorbing and break-resistant

This ancient technique reveals an authentic hamon – that crystalline, undulating line that meanders along the blade, visible after hand polishing. Unlike acid-etched imitations, this hamon is a true testament to the steel's metallurgical transformation.

The bohi (longitudinal groove) runs along the blade and ends in an elegant triangular finish (kaki-toshi). Beyond its aesthetic appeal, it lightens the blade without compromising its structural strength and produces the tachi-kaze – that characteristic whistling sound during cuts, allowing the practitioner to assess the quality of their technique.

Polishing: Excellence Revealed Millimeter by Millimeter

Traditional hand polishing requires several days of meticulous work with stones of progressively finer grit. This process goes beyond simply sharpening: it reveals the intrinsic beauty of the steel, highlights the hamon, and creates the ji (blade surface) with its subtle nuances reflecting the crystalline structure of the metal.

Each pass of stone sculpts the precise geometry that gives the Monohoshizao its razor-sharp edge and legendary cutting ability.

Koshirae: Minimalist Elegance, Maximum Robustness

The monochrome black aesthetic of Monohoshizao evokes Japanese wabi-sabi – beauty in simplicity and authenticity.

Saya (scabbard) : Crafted from a fine hardwood, lacquered deep black with a satin finish. The black sageo (silk cord) allows for traditional belt carrying. The koiguchi (opening) is calibrated to hold the blade securely while allowing for a smooth nukitsuke (drawing).

Tsuka (30 cm handle) : Generous size adapted to the length of the blade, allowing optimal two-handed grip for nodachi techniques.

• Genuine Samegawa (shagreen stingray skin), white, sanded and polished, offering a natural grip even in wet hands
• Black ito (silk or cotton braiding) tightly woven using the hineri-maki method, creating the characteristic regular diamond shapes.
• Two mekugi (bamboo pins) pass through the silk for a secure attachment

Wrought iron fittings (kodogu) :

• Tsuba : A simple guard with clean lines, protecting the hand without hindering movement.
• Fuchi & Kashira : Matching collar and pommel, reinforcing the structure
• Habaki : A custom-fitted ferrule ensuring the blade stays perfectly in the scabbard and contributing to overall balance.

Performance & Versatility: From the Dojo to the Collection

For practitioners of traditional martial arts:

• Iaido : The balanced weight and length allow for authentic exploration of nodachi katas
• Kenjutsu & Kendo : Exceptional range for practicing long-distance techniques
• Tameshigiri (test cut): Razor-sharp edge validated on rice straw (goza) and green bamboo

Optimal balance : Despite its impressive length, the convergence point is calculated to facilitate changes of direction and smooth cuts. The bohi helps to lighten the overall weight without sacrificing structural rigidity.

For collectors and connoisseurs: A decorative piece that transcends the object to become a work of art. The Monohoshizao naturally finds its place in a refined interior, displayed on a kake (stand) or horizontally on traditional supports. Its clean aesthetic integrates equally well into a Japanese tokonoma (table) or a contemporary interior.

Certificate of authenticity provided, attesting to the materials, forging techniques and finishes.

⚙️ Technical specifications

Total length	130 cm
Blade length (Nagasa)	95 cm
Blade width	3.2 cm
Blade thickness	7 mm
Blade steel	1095 (high carbon)
Type of forge	Clay tempered with bohi, triangular termination
Hardness	~55–60 HRC
Hamon	Real, revealed by polishing
Polishing	Hand polished
Sheath (Saya)	Black lacquered hardwood
Handle length (Tsuka)	30 cm
Sleeve coating (Same / Ito)	Samegawa real white / ito black
Fittings	Tsuba, fuchi, iron kashira; fitted habaki
Sharpening	Razor-sharp edge (bamboo cutter possible)
Accessories included	Certificate, cover/sword bag, careful 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 restricted to those 18+. (Sharpened version)
Decorative/collectible item. Carrying and transport prohibited in public places. Keep out of reach of minors. Comply with the laws of your country.