Eternal Search For Knowledge
Foreign Scholar
Age 19, I travelled across the seas to broaden my horizons. My father sponsored an expidition to Japan, where I could experience the culture of a remarkable society. Much exploration revealed an occasion of inspiration like none other. I apprenticed under the last traditional master black smith in Kyoto, to learn how to make Samurai Swords the old way.
Nidec Kyoto Storm Tower
Tamahagane Steel
The type of ore mined to create such a blade is rare and precious, originating from Okuizumo area of Shimane Prefecture. Iron sand mixed with quartz from granite mountains is fused to igneous diorite rock. The bloom of hallowed ore is smelted in a Tatara furnace. Charcoal infuses the steel melt with strength and the unbreakable ability to cut.
River Hill Iron Sand Charcoal Filled Impurities Smelted Raw Tamahagane Steel
Forcing The Form | Hammer To Heaven
Relentless Forging
"Tso... tso... tso...", is what the Master would hum as I beat my vision into the blade. Utilizing various sized tools to elongate and shape the steel, the rhythm helped me focus. Every strike moved the metal closer to what it should be. Sprinkles of water coaxed imperfections out of the steel, where they would flake off as I continued to pound.
Fine Personality
The Japanese people of ancient times believed gods dwelled within the blade. To wield such a precious extension of the body through steel, was revered. Elegance combined with purpose throned the Samurai Sword as an artifact of violence, spiritual balance, and psychological support. The art of forging fire, coal, and metal into Katana, teaches one to feel the awesome forces of the universe, deepening real awareness and understanding of oneself.
Katana Kaji Yuya Nakanishi
Standing behind me sharpening another short sword as I work on my own blade.
Fukushima Shugyล No Tatsujin
Masahiro Tanto - Jo
Soul of the Blade
Tsuchi-tori is the metallurgical technique executed by ancient Japanese black smiths to purify the cutting edge of the blade. Thick wet clay is brushed onto only the spine of the sword. The uniquely intricate one of a kind edge pattern painted distinguishes the separate phases of metal and is called Hamon. It is said that this pattern is what sets its character and brings the blade to life.
Differential Heat Treatment Quench
Hard Sharp Edge | Soft Ductile Rear
Deep Solar Tint Orange Undertone
Dark Violet Blue Hue Rose Wisps
Coal Wind Fueld Flame
Fire Temperment
Lights out, all the windows and entrances to the furnace room are covered. The temperature of the flame is guaged by eye sight alone, it has to be just right. Breathes of air are gentley stirred into the mix until the blaze reaches the orange glow of a setting sun, just before the dark blue shade of night sky. The coated blade is submerged into the coals, then quickly dunked into water. Yakiire rises a new sword whose curve quakes infernal echos.
Master's Signature
Kaji - Togi is the final inspection of the Master before sharpening. No Hagire cracks must be found and only slight Sori - Naoshi curvature corrections can be made. If the quality of the work is to standard, the Master chisel's his identifiable and unique name onto the Nakago, as a seal of approval. Mine is also signed on the reverse. Mei - Kiri is performed.
I Am Honored To Have My Creation Marked.
Master Masahiro Displaying Finest Meito Katana Swords
Flourishing Shine
Through passion, persistance, and invaluable past wisdom, I forged my own Tamahagane Steel survival dagger. I learned so much about ancient traditional Japanese metallurgy and authentic Katana craftsmanship. I miss Kyoto and the wonderful experiences I had there. My blade is beautiful and equiped with a large wood handle for great grip, and a useful leather sheathe. I can see why this art form needs to be protected. This adventure made my soul feel nourished.
My Blade Is Done, I Feel Proud.