Cutting Katana

There are different types of katanas, including the cutting katana.

The sharp katana

In order to perform training and demonstration cutting, or Tameshigiri, a sharp katana is required. It is thus possible to practice the art of cutting bamboo or rolled Omoto tatami mats. This cutting allows the katana to be tested, but it is also a mental and physical training exercise in order to achieve a cut at a perfect angle.

With a special stone, it is possible to sharpen your katana yourself; otherwise, simply send it to specialists to avoid damaging it.

The type of forge of a katana

There are several types of katana forge:

• The Maru forge, composed of a single steel, is generally dedicated to entry-level katanas. However, with this type of forge, it is possible to have a high-end katana. A Maru forge with a hamon steel can be of superior quality and offer remarkable sharpness as well as solidity.
• Composite blades are blades composed of different layers and steels. Generally, these types of forges correspond to a period in Japan's history, as well as to the evolution of the katana.

There are also different types of steel for a cutting katana, including traditional Tamahagane steel and alternative steels.