Empire Katana – Bo-Hi

Empire Katana

The Empire Katana by Kaizen Sword Art embodies the inseparable bond between power, responsibility, and the samurai’s sword. Within every Japanese empire, the katana was more than a weapon—it was a symbol of order, loyalty, and personal honor. This sword translates that philosophy into a modern, sharp functional Japanese sword for the serious practitioner and collector.

Designed with authority. Forged with precision.

The Empire Katana from the Ashigaru series is a handcrafted katana that combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a powerful, well-balanced geometry. The blade is hand-forged from high-quality 1095 carbon steel and differentially hardened using the clay tempered method. This process creates a clear, natural hamon that is not only visually striking but also functionally enhances cutting performance and durability.

The result is a sharp functional Japanese sword with a reliable edge, excellent balance, and controlled cutting feel or as a piece in a refined collection.

Blade and balance

The classic shinogi-zukuri blade geometry provides stability and precision during the cut. The subtle sori supports a smooth, flowing cutting motion and enhances the sword’s natural handling. This Empire Katana feels resolute and controlled—exactly what one expects from a sword symbolizing authority within an empire.

Equipped with bo-hi

The bo-hi (blade groove) in the Empire Katana is carefully crafted to reduce overall weight without compromising structural integrity. This results in a livelier balance and faster, more controllable handling during training and cutting practice.

In addition to the functional weight reduction, the bo-hi produces a clear tachikaze (the characteristic cutting sound), offering valuable feedback for correct cutting technique. Within martial traditions, this sound is regarded as a sign of mastery and precision—qualities that perfectly align with the philosophy of the Empire and its katana.

Tsuka and mountings

The tsuka is traditionally constructed and fitted with genuine ray skin (same) and tightly wrapped black cotton ito. The mounting is functional, solid, and deliberately restrained. Two mekugi ensure maximum safety during use. Every detail is chosen with control, durability, and harmony between form and function in mind.

The tsuba and other koshirae elements are sober yet powerful in design, fitting the Empire theme: no unnecessary ornamentation, only quiet authority.

Key features of the Empire Katana

Why this model stands out:

• Handcrafted, hand-forged blade
• Clay tempered hardened steel with visible hamon
• Sharp functional Japanese sword, fully usable
• Shinogi-zukuri blade geometry for stability and cutting power
• Perfectly balanced full-tang construction
• Traditionally built tsuka with genuine same
• Solid mounting with double mekugi
• High-quality Kaizen Sword Art finish

  Specifications – Empire Katana

• Steel type: High-quality 1095 carbon steel
• Construction: Full tang
• Heat treatment: Clay tempered
• Hamon: Naturally visible (traditional style)
• Blade style: Shinogi-zukuri
• Bo-hi: Yes
• Nagasa: 2.47 shaku (74,8 x habaki)
• Tsuka: 27,5 cm 
• Weight: 950 gram
• Same: Genuine ray skin
• Ito: Black cotton ito – tightly wrapped
• Mekugi: 2
• Sori: Subtle curvature
• Saya: Black, traditionally lacquered
• Condition: Fully sharp and functional

Buy your Empire Katana

Looking for a katana that unites tradition, authority, and functionality? Then the Empire Katana by Kaizen Sword Art is an exceptional choice. Order today at Samurai-Katana-Shop.nl and experience a sword that stands for discipline, honor, and the heart of the Japanese empire.

This is a handmade katana. Minor variations in finish and dimensions are a natural characteristic of authentic craftsmanship.

* To keep a sword in good condition you need to maintain it and oil it.