Honshu Swords

Welcome to Honshu Swords, your number one source for authentic and high-quality Japanese swords.

About Honshu Swords

For over 50 years, Honshu Swords has been crafting exceptional blades that fuse traditional sword designs with modern innovations. Our Japanese style katanas, medieval longswords, fantasy swords, and more provide outstanding performance for martial artists, stage performers, collectors, and all sword devotees.

Every Honshu sword begins with premium high carbon steel undergoing repeated folding to enhance strength and flexibility. Our expert smiths shape each blade through time-honored techniques like stamping, clay tempering, and manual hammering. The results are swords alive with authentic heritage yet featuring updated alloys and processes to maximize durability.

From the graceful curvature of our katanas to the elegant embellishments on fantasy pieces, our attention to detail makes Honshu Swords stand out. We hand select woods for optimal grain and markings. Fittings match each sword’s culture and period. And our polishing and etching accentuates the breathtaking layers within the steel.

We stand behind every sword bearing our mark. Before leaving our workshop, each undergoes a battery of test cuts and rigid inspections. We will repair or replace any defective product not meeting our demanding standards.

Here at Honshu Swords, we blend secrets of ancient sword smiths with modern innovations. Our pieces exemplify the pride, sincerity, and spirit of Japanese sword making. We invite you to browse our collection of inspiring blades forged with purpose.

Honshu Swords Sales Today

United Cutlery Honshu Spartan Sword and Scabbard - Original | Battle Ready Full Tang | 7Cr13 Stainless Steel Blade - 16.5” Length | Tactical Sword - 23” Overall

  • SPARTAN WEAPONS – Reimagining of an ancient classic, this real sword is both innovative and functionally built to last

Honshu Boshin Wakizashi | 22 1/2" 1060 High Carbon Steel Blade | Rugged TPR Handle | Stainless Steel Guard and Pommel | Wooden Saya with Black Leather Sageo | 34" Overall Length

  • LEGENDARY DESIGN: A wakizashi for a new era, blending traditional Japanese sword craftsmanship with contemporary style and bold tactical appointments.

Honshu Boshin Katana with Scabbard | Full-Tang | 30 3/8" 1060 High Carbon Steel Blade | Rugged Non-Slip TPR Handle | Lanyard Hole | For Martial Arts or Collecting | Hand-Forged | Overall Length 40.75"

  • SUPERIOR BLADE: Full tang 30 3/8″ 1060 high carbon steel blade retains sharp edge under severe conditions.

HONSHU Broadsword and Scabbard - 43 1/2" Full Length | 1060 Carbon Steel Blade | Balanced & Lightweight | Rugged TPR with No-Slip Grip | Stainless Steel Pommel | Includes Leather Belt Hanger

  • TACTICAL LONGSWORD – This modern interpretation of historical European weaponry is super fun to wield whether chopping trees or having some fun

UNITED CUTLERY Honshu Boshin HellFyre Damascus Handmade Wakizashi Sword – Hand Forged Hellfyre Damascus Steel, Rugged TPR Grip, Wooden Sheath – Modern Take on a Traditional Wazikashi - 34” Overall

  • Country of origin: China
  • Brand name: United Cutlery
  • Item Number: UC3125D

Honshu Spartan Sword and Scabbard - Red | Battle Ready Full Tang | Damascus Steel Blade - 16.5” Length | Real Swords for Adults | Self Defense Weapons | Tactical Sword - 23” Overall

  • SPARTAN WEAPONS – Reimagining of an ancient classic, this real sword is both innovative and functionally built to last

Why Choose Honshu Swords

Decades of Sword Making Expertise

For over 50 years, our master smiths have been perfecting the craft of sword making. The intricacies of folding steel, clay tempering, polishing, and fittings assembly are second nature to them. Every Honshu blade benefits from generations of accumulated sword making wisdom.

Hand Crafted Authenticity

From the graceful curve of our katanas to the broad fullers of our medieval longswords, every Honshu blade faithfully honors the traditions and methods of its culture of origin. We painstakingly shape and taper each sword to match dimensions of historical counterparts. This results in swords alive with authentic spirit.

Optimal Materials and Construction

Only the strongest and most resilient alloys and woods are selected for Honshu swords. Our differentially hardened blades flex to absorb impacts without losing their keen edges. Full tang construction provides unmatched stability and durability. Our materials and methods maximize each sword’s longevity and performance.

Artistic Attention to Detail

Beauty and elegance complement the strength of Honshu swords. Elaborate engravings and etchings decorate blades and fittings. We carefully match traditional hilt materials like ito and ray skin to each sword’s style. Our smiths treat each sword as a work of art.

Rigorous Quality Control

Before leaving our workshop, every finished sword undergoes a battery of test cuts, flexibility tests, and detailed inspections. Our standards for sharpness, balance, and construction are extremely stringent. Only swords passing these demanding assessments earn the Honshu mark of quality.

Outstanding Value

Producing high volumes enables us to offer extraordinary swords at very accessible prices. Our commitment to value ensures beginners have access to quality blades. Even our most affordable katanas provide exceptional durability and edge retention.

Our Clients Thought

Jane Miller

As a long-time martial arts student and sword enthusiast, I can confidently say that Honshu Swords makes some of the finest blades I've ever handled. I purchased the Honshu Spartan Gladius for solo practice and have been nothing short of amazed at the quality and durability. The moment I first unsheathed it I could tell the balance and weight distribution was perfectly dialed in. The grip fits snugly in my hand even when sweaty. And the razor sharp blade sliced effortlessly through water bottles and tatami mats. I've used this gladius nearly daily for solo forms and drills for over 6 months now with no issues. It takes all the abuse I can throw at it and still retains its fine edge. The Spartan Gladius represents an outstanding fusion of ancient design and modern craftsmanship. Honshu Swords will always be my first choice for martial arts weaponry.

David Wilson

As a stage combat performer and choreographer, durable and safe swords are crucial for vivid scenes. Over the years I've come to trust Honshu Swords above all others to equip my actors. Recently for a fantasy production, I purchased a set of Honshu Broadswords which have been an absolute godsend. The swords feature robust crossguards and wide cores to the blade which makes them very rigid, preventing accidental bending. Yet they still deliver satisfying swings and slashes. The unique bullet-shaped tips minimize the risk of puncture or scraping during intense choreography. And the blades hold alignment perfectly even after clashing against shields and other swords night after night. We've performed over 40 shows now and the Honshu Broadswords look and handle like new. Honshu delivers unparalleled durability and safety - exactly what performers need. I won't use any other brand for my productions.

Michael Lee

As a novice sword collector who appreciates both form and function, I was delighted to discover Honshu Swords. The unique variety of Asian and European styles offers something for every taste. After much browsing I settled on the Honshu English Longsword for its ornate hilt and broad blade. Taking it from the packaging I could instantly tell the sword was a high caliber piece. Every detail from the leather wrap grip to the precisely etched fuller gave it elegant character. Swinging it revealed superb balance and quick maneuverability. The blade geometry makes it very nimble in hand for its size. Displaying it on my wall emphasizes the masterful metalwork. Yet I have no doubt this sword could endure intense sparring thanks to the full tang robustness. Honshu Swords provides stunning works of art that still retain real sword spirit. I'm eagerly awaiting adding more of their pieces to my collection.

Ashley Thompson

I'll admit I was skeptical when my son said he wanted to purchase a real katana online for martial arts practice. But he showed me the glowing reviews of Honshu Swords' functional blades and I agreed to order one. We selected the 1060 Carbon Steel Machete with Cord Wrap handle which had an amazing balance of reviews praising its performance and looks. When it arrived, we were both stunned by the outstanding craftsmanship. The cord wrap provides a very tight, ergonomic grip. Drawing and sheathing it revealed a perfect fluid motion. And the razor sharp, mirror polished edge sliced cleanly through the tatami mats and bamboo we tried. My son has been through months of intense solo and partner drills without any issues. The 1060 carbon steel has proven itself highly resistant to chips and scratches. While no sword should be handled carelessly, Honshu Swords inspires confidence to train in earnest while maintaining safety. We will be ordering more of their katanas for sure.

Christopher Lee

Having practiced HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) for 7 years, I know firsthand the importance of having swords built to precise specifications for both form and function. For tournaments and demos, I need blades that mirror medieval longsword designs in handling and durability. This led me to Honshu Swords after reading rave reviews of their Knightly Longsword. When it arrived, I was stunned by the accuracy in its dimensions, shaping, tapering, and balance. It felt like holding a blade straight from the 14th century! Yet swinging it revealed modern construction advancements, cutting targets cleanly without jarring vibrations. I've used the Honshu Knightly Longsword extensively for both demos and sparring matches, maintaining perfect stability and alignment through clashing guards and pommeling strikes. My opponents are equally impressed at how it mirrors medieval longswords in performance. For HEMA practitioners seeking historically accurate swords that cut as good as they look, I highly recommend Honshu's longsword line. You'll appreciate the difference proper weighting and shaping makes.

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FAQs

Here at Honshu Swords, we handcraft a wide variety of high-quality blades including Japanese style katanas, medieval longswords, fantasy swords, and more. Our smiths are experts at forging swords based on historical designs as well as creative fantasy pieces.

All Honshu swords feature full tang construction with the blade extending through the handle for maximum durability. The steel undergoes multiple foldings to remove impurities while evenly distributing carbon. This improves flexibility and strength. Our smiths shape the steel using traditional techniques before precisely heat treating each blade.

Our katanas are forged from 1045 high carbon steel while our medieval and European style blades utilize tough 1060 carbon steel. Our fantasy pieces feature hearty 1095 carbon steel. All our steel is sourced from trusted mills to ensure optimal quality.

Yes, every Honshu sword comes professionally sharpened and ready for use right out of the box. Our heat treating and polishing processes maximize each blade's edge. Our swords easily slice mats, tatami omote, water bottles, and other targets.

Absolutely! Our swords are differentially hardened, meaning the edge is harder than the spine. This allows the edge to hold firm while the spine absorbs shocks and flexes. This makes Honshu swords ideal for intense martial arts training and stage combat practice while minimizing risk of breakage.

Basic care will keep your Honshu blade performing optimally for years. Occasionally wipe the blade clean and inspect for rust. Use a silicone cloth to prevent moisture buildup in the scabbard. Avoid cutting hard materials that may chip the edge. Store the sword in a cool, dry place.

Yes, we offer high-quality bokken made from dense oak as a safe, durable training option. Our iaito feature unsharpened blades allowing for practiced drawing motions. We also stock rigid kendo shinai swords for sparring matches.

Our rigorous construction methods and materials result in swords capable of withstanding intense, frequent use. Each Honshu sword undergoes a battery of test cuts before leaving our workshop. Over 50 years of sword making experience gives us confidence in the longevity of our blades.

Martial artists, theatrical performers, collectors, and sword enthusiasts around the world cherish Honshu swords. Our Asian and European styles provide martial arts students with outstanding training swords. Stage actors rely on our safety optimized blades for vivid performances. Collectors appreciate our eye-catching fantasy swords.

If you value authenticity, durability, sharpness, and sheer soul in a blade, then Honshu swords are for you. Decades of crafting premium swords has honed our skills while modern innovations enhance the performance of our classic designs. When you need a sword that embodies history and soul, choose Honshu.