Part of a new 1060 high carbon series from Musashi, the focus of this production was to forge the best blade possible for under $100. With the result being well within that goal, this blade is nothing short of an excellent value. Handmade, the blade Hamon is formed by the clay temper process during production. The blade is differentially hardened and comes extremely sharp. This sword is well balanced and the tight handle wrap feels great. Comes complete with a black cotton storage bag and Musashi retail box. Materials and Way of Forge: Traditional hand forge Muku-kitae method. 1060 High Carbon Steel with clay temper process. 55 HRC blade hardness. Hamon and hardness created with temper process. Real hamon, not wire brushed or printed. Real ray skin wrapped grip with black cotton cord wrap. Extremely sharp hand honed edge. Steel tsuba, fuchi, and kashira; Brass habaki. Can be disassembled for care or display. Dual bamboo mekugi (peg), hardwood handle. Hardwood scabbard with high quality piano paint finish. 39 3/4 in. overall, 27 1/2 in. blade, 10 3/4 in. handle. Includes black cotton sword storage/carry bag.