Kimura Shigenari was a Japanese samurai in the 17th century. At the age of 21, he commanded an army for his first campaign at the Winter Siege of Osaka. Because of his bravery, Hideyori acclaimed him as the “peerless hero of the nation”, and presented him with a sword made by the famous swordsmith Masamune. Kimura returned the sword because of his devotion to the Toyotomi clan.
One year later, Kimura led the army against Tadataka’s troop at the Summer Siege of Osaka. Kimura himself fought on the front lines and was caught during the battle. He was then beheaded and it is rumored that his hair was neatly trimmed and that he had ridden with incense in his helmet to show that he was prepared to die.
This tanto style Damascus steel fighting knife is named as Kimura as a form of respect. While this is not a traditional style of the Japanese tanto, we like to think that the combination of tanto tip, saw edge and large finger-grooved handle, would make a good choice for close quarter combat and fitting of the samurai. Made of 1095 and 15n20 steels, the high carbon content of 1095 gives this knife an extremely sharp and durable edge and makes it the ideal choice for rough use.
Kimura Handmade Damascus Steel Warrior’s Tanto Knife Specifications
- Overall Weight: 11.2 oz
- Overall Length: 10.5 inches
- Overall Width: 16.5 mm
- Handle Length: 5.125 inches
- Handle Material: G10
- Blade Length: 5.625 inches
- Blade Width: 4.5 mm
- Blade Shape: Modified Tanto, a tanto tip and straight secondary edge for multi-use
- Blade Material: Damascus Steel (1095 and 15n20)
- Blade Jimping: Notched pattern for enhanced grip and control
- Blade Fuller: Beveled channel running along the blade to reduce weight and increase strength
- Damascus Pattern: Twist
- Number of Layers: 256
- Rockwell Hardness: HRC 56-60
- Grind: Compound Bevel
- Full Tang: Blade extends all the way through the handle for strength
- Includes a full-grain leather sheath and a wood presentation box
Please note: Each knife is handmade from natural materials. There will be some variation in color, Damascus pattern, and overall look. The knife you receive will have the same attention to quality and detail as the one pictured but may differ slightly in appearance.
Sheaths: The sheath you receive may vary in color, style, and type from what is shown in product photos. Please refer to our sheath support page or by contacting us at support@forsetisteel.com.
Care Instructions
1095 steel is a high-carbon steel and will rust if not dried and oiled after use. Hand wash only with soap and hot water. Dry completely before oiling.