Japanese artisanal wakizashi “Kurochiku”

the elegance of black bamboo

“Kurochiku” means “black bamboo” (黒竹): a nod to the bamboo-patterned tsuba (guard) and the dark aesthetic of the koshirae. Forged to order from 1060 steel, this wakizashi combines function and prestige: a satin-black blade with a bohi (fuller) for balance, meticulous finishing for collectors, ready for traditional cutting.

📜 Description

Origin & spirit: the legacy of the urban samurai

The wakizashi is the short blade of the samurai which forms a pair with the katana called ( daishō )

"Kurochiku" (黒竹 – black bamboo) draws inspiration from the Zen imagery of Japanese gardens: black bamboo symbolizes resilience in the face of adversity, understated elegance, and unpretentious mastery. This philosophy is translated here into a koshirae (full mount) in black and gold tones, designed for the modern practitioner as well as the discerning collector.

Blade forging & anatomy

1060 carbon steel – Robustness at the service of cutting
Selected for its resilience and ability to maintain a sharp edge, 1060 steel (0.60% carbon) offers the best compromise between flexibility and hardness for a functional blade. Heat-treated to approximately 35 HRC , it resists impacts while allowing for easy resharpening.

Bohi (樋) – The legendary relief gorge
This traditional groove, carved along the entire length of the blade, serves three functions:
✓ Reduces the blade weight by 15 to 20% for optimal maneuverability
✓ Produces the tachikaze (blade wind), that characteristic whistling sound of rapid cuts
✓ Improves the overall balance of the sword for iaido and tameshigiri

Satin black finish – Tactical discretion
After meticulous hand polishing, the blade receives a matte black plating treatment which gives it:

• A stealthy and contemporary look
• Enhanced corrosion protection
• An aesthetic that breaks with traditional mirror-polished blades

⚠️ Note: The hamon (temper line) is not visible under this finish – this is a modern aesthetic choice favoring uniformity.

Habaki (刃区) – The secret to the perfect fit
This solid brass ring at the base of the blade ensures a tight, play-free lock in the scabbard. It is this ring that produces the characteristic "click" when drawing the sword (nukitsuke) and ensures secure carrying.

Frame & finishes: meticulous craftsmanship down to the smallest detail

Saya (鞘) – Black lacquered sheath
Lacquered hardwood core, protected by a textured black braid imitating leather (tsuka-maki style), with a contrasting brown cord central lacing. Length: 56 cm. Reinforced mouthpiece for heavy use.

Tsuka (柄) – Traditional handle with optimal grip
The 24 cm handle adheres to the classic three-layer construction:

1. Same-gawa (genuine stingray skin): natural non-slip grip, visible in diamond patterns beneath the braiding
2. Ito (braiding): matte black cord, traditional hineri-maki tightening for a firm grip
3. Menuki (ornaments): two gold appliqués under the braiding, bamboo motifs matching the tsuba

Tsuba (鍔) – Carved guard "bamboo forest"
A centerpiece of the koshirae, this gold-plated zinc alloy guard features an intricate relief of intertwined bamboo stalks. Diameter: ≈ 7.5 cm. Brushed finish for a refined look without excessive shine.

Fuchi (縁) & Kashira (頭) – Coordinated hardware
The guard ring (fuchi) and pommel (kashira) are made of plated alloy with discreet geometric patterns. Their role is to securely hold the braiding and balance the sword's center of gravity.

Usage & performance: from the cutting board to the tatami

For practitioners of Japanese martial arts
✓ Iaido : ideal balance for unsheathing katas (nukitsuke, kiritsuke)
✓ Kenjutsu : increased maneuverability thanks to the bohi, adaptation to one-handed techniques
✓ Tameshigiri : razor-sharp edge tested on tatami omote (compressed rice straw) and green bamboo

Professional sharpening
The blade comes with a razor-sharp edge, capable of cutting through suspended paper. The bevel angle is optimized for cutting soft targets. Resharpening is recommended every 50–100 tatami sessions, depending on usage.

For collectors & decorators
✓ Striking visual contrast: deep black / brushed gold
✓ Vertical or horizontal display on a stand (not included)
✓ Conversation piece: each element tells a story from feudal Japan
✓ Certificate of authenticity and traceable origin

⚙️ Technical specifications

Total length	78 cm
Blade length (Nagasa)	51 cm
Blade width	3.2 cm
Blade thickness	7 mm
Blade steel	1060 carbon steel
Type of forge	Full tang blade with bohi
Hardness	≈ 35 HRC (supplier data)
Hamon	Undifferentiated / not visible (black finish)
Polishing	Polished and sanded, with a satin black finish (black plated)
Sheath (Saya)	Hardwood wrapped in black braiding, brown lacing (56 cm)
Handle length (Tsuka)	24 cm
Sleeve coating (Same / Ito)	Black braid (ito), visible samegawa
Fittings	Tsuba / Fuchi / Kashira in plated zinc alloy • Habaki in brass
Sharpening	Razor-sharp edge (can cut through a straw mat)
Accessories included	Fabric carrying case

⚒️ 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.