Blade Length Classifications
| Classification | Metric Length | Shaku / Sun | Inches | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanto | 0–30 cm | 0–1 shaku | 0–11.8 in | Short blade |
| Wakizashi | 30–60 cm | 1–2 shaku | 11.8–23.6 in | Medium blade |
| Katana | 60–72 cm | 2–2.4 shaku | 23.6–28.3 in | Standard sword |
| Ō-Katana | 72–90 cm | 2.4–3 shaku | 28.3–35.4 in | Long warrior sword |
| Ōdachi / Nodachi | 90+ cm | 3+ shaku | 35.4+ in | Ultra-long sword |
Sword Works — 一心刀工房
Traditional Craftsmanship for the Modern Collector and Practitioner
At Isshin Katana, every blade receives the same disciplined attention — whether it is a modern production katana, a family-kept heirloom, or a work of functional martial arts training steel.
Our Sword Works division focuses on preservation, correction, sharpening, polishing, and custom craftsmanship.
Our Areas of Expertise
• Sharpening (Ha-Mise & Ha-Niku)
Precision edge shaping that respects the blade’s original geometry.
No grinders. No machines. Hand-guided sharpening only.
• Polishing (Togi)
Bringing out the blade’s natural beauty — hamon, jihada, and activity — using traditional stones and modern technique where appropriate.
• Tsuka Crafting
Custom handles carved, shaped, and compression-fitted to your sword’s tang.
• Saya Crafting
Traditional wooden scabbards carved for tanto up to odachi lengths.
• Restoration
Rust removal, dent repair, surface correction, and proper oil preservation.
Our Philosophy
A sword should not be “improved” —
It should be revealed.
We follow the principle of 一心 (Isshin):
One heart. One mind. One blade.
No shortcuts.
No rushed work.
No inflated pricing.
Begin Your Project
Have a blade that needs evaluation?
Visit our Contact page to begin the process.