The traditional katana sported beautiful layers of steel that show off a beautiful tell-tale ripple-like pattern throughout the length of the blade. The ancient practice of folding steel played a critical role in the creation of strong and durable blades. But is this process still necessary today? Does this mean a blade without folds is weaker? Or can a folded blade be weaker than one that is not folded? What is the difference between plain vs folded steel? Here we take a closer look at the process of folding steel, why it was necessary, and how things are different today.
History of Japanese Steel
In ancient Japan, steel was a lot different than it is today and the great swordsmiths of that time required extensive knowledge in chemical metallurgy and needed to know how to create the steel they would need. Tamahagane, or the Japanese steel of the time, was created by smelting together iron sand with charcoal. Swordsmiths placed this material in a tatara, or large clay furnace with temperatures reaching 2,500 degrees Fahrenheit. This smelting process went on for three days while tatara masters added more iron sand and charcoal.
At the end of the 72 hours, the tatara masters broke open the furnace to expose the tamahagane iron blooms. Swordsmiths then separated the steel based on carbon content. Unfortunately, this steel contained many impurities. To remove the impurities, swordsmiths manipulated the steel by heating, hammering, and folding the tamahagane to better combine the carbon and iron and remove the impurities. This created thousands of layers in the steel, giving the katana blade the characteristic ripple-like appearance in the steel.
Modern Steel and the Modern Katana
While folding tamahagane steel was necessary to homogeneously distribute carbon and remove impurities, today’s modern steel is uniform, pure, and ready for use right from the manufacturer. Most production katana blades are now made with carbon steel (1045, 1060, and 1095), spring steels (65MN, 5160, 5166, and 9260), or tool steels (T-10, L6 Bainite, and S7 Shock).
While these steels do not require the folding necessary to remove impurities, many collectors are still looking for that ripple-like appearance as seen in the traditional katana. While these steels can be folded in the traditional fashion, it takes skill and serious attention to detail when folding. If the swordsmith is inexperienced or rushed when folding, there is a high likelihood the metal will have air pockets, weak points, and inclusions that could greatly weaken the sword.
Should You Choose a Plain Steel or Folded Steel Katana?
So, when it comes to modern katana swords, should you choose folded or simple, non-folded blades? The answer is unique to every person and depends on what you are looking for. While both blades can be durable, swordsmith experience plays a big role in the durability of a finished folded blade. However, if you are looking for a katana with a more authentic look, the folded steel is the traditional form and the ripple-like effect on the blade is truly beautiful. Keep in mind that, to get a high-quality folded steel katana, you will likely have to pay a bit more, as high-quality, functional, folded steel katanas can cost more.
At Kult of Athena, we strive to bring you a wide selection of high-quality plain and folded steel katanas and blades inspired by traditional swordsmith techniques. Browse our selection of beautiful and functional swords today to find the perfect one for you!
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