Bugei – Armorer’s Katana – 28″ Blade

Some katana are crafted to honor the memory of great leaders, warriors, and legendary battles from Japan’s storied past. This katana is dedicated to the legendary swordsmith Nagasone Kotetsu of the Edo period. Born into a family of armorers, Kotetsu transitioned into blade forging, and his swords quickly gained fame for their unmatched strength and sharpness. It was said that his blades could slice through a kabuto (helmet)—a feat that should remain in the realm of myth. His work was defined by an exceptional combination of durability and cutting power. While there is some debate over how many swords he actually produced, numerous counterfeit pieces have been found bearing his signature. Regardless, the enduring legacy of his craftsmanship continues to inspire to this day. While it’s beyond the scope of this tribute to recount every detail of Kotetsu’s life, collectors, aficionados, and practitioners alike should make it a point to study his contributions to the sword-making world.

This katana, the Armourer’s Katana, honors the memory of this great swordsmith. Its uniquely shaped tsuba features an intricate pierced yanone (arrowhead) motif, echoed in the menuki, creating a powerful visual connection to Kotetsu’s enduring influence. Simple, elegant, and strong—just like the blades that earned him his legendary reputation.

Two words best describe this katana: hidden strength. The katana’s power is hidden beneath the quiet elegance of its design—its blackened, textured handle furniture, and the refined silver menuki. The premium dark brown Japanese cotton ito wraps around authentic samegawa (ray skin) in a traditional diamond pattern, offering both aesthetic beauty and functional grip. The dark chocolate brown saya, paired with a contrasting light brown sageo, buffalo horn kurikata, and kojiri, completes the visual theme of strength and simplicity.

The blade itself is forged and folded from a blend of T10 and 1055 steels, creating a distinctive hada (grain) pattern that enhances both the visual beauty and strength of the blade. The hamon (tempering line) takes the form of a flowing o-choji pattern along its entire length. More detailed specifications can be found below.

We believe Nagasone Kotetsu would be proud to see this katana, a tribute to his legacy. It embodies the principles of strength, resilience, and simplicity, wrapped in the form of a lethal weapon. It is our hope that this katana will one day stand as legendary as the man who inspired it.