During the Muromachi period (1568-1603), the introduction of the pairing of the Katana (the curved sword) and Wakizashi was introduced. The Wakizashi, or the shorter companion blade to the Katana, was about 18 inches long.Only the warrior class - the Samurai - was allowed to wear the two swords, which remained a custom for the next several hundred years until abolished in the 19th century. This Wakizashi is the companion piece to the Golden Oriole Katana with matching fittings and blade construction. This is a sharpened battle ready Samurai sword.

The elegantly simple lines of the Golden Oriole have long been favored by admirers of the Japanese sword. The story told by the stunning tsuba is of a mantis stealthily stalking the cricket, unaware that he is himself being stalked by the Golden Oriole.

The deeply lacquered blue of the saya is repeated in the Japanese cotton tsuka-ito, and the Oriole appears again on the kashira. Unmistakably Hanwei quality, the 14” tsuka of the katana gives a superb balance to the sword, allowing it to move very quickly and very freely.

Hanwei Golden Oriole Wakizashi Specifications:

Hand forged high-carbon steel
Blade length/ Nagasa: 20“, 50,8 cm
Handle length: 6 3/4”, 17,14 cm
Overall length: 27 1/2“, 69,85 cm
Weight: 1lb 10oz, 733 gram
Point of Balance: 4", 10,16 cm
Traditional maintenance kit
Protective sword bag


Piece from piece may slightly vary.