Motohara

The focus of our swords is on high performance cutting, handling and durability, with traditional koshirae designs, and custom craftsman level build-quality. Our customer focus is on martial artists practicing the Japanese Sword Arts, as well as enthusiasts and collectors that appreciate high quality modern steel katanas in traditional Japanese style themes. Blades are produced by skilled, experienced blacksmiths in South Korea. We use premium steels combined with modern technology, tools, and processes in the making of our blades. Koshirae is made individually for each sword, and assembled by a Japanese-trained craftsman. Tsuka cores and saya are carved for each individual blade using strong, durable hardwoods. Saya are available in a variety of traditional style finishes and designs. Genuine high quality samegawa (stingray skin) and silk and leather from Korea and Japan are utilized in tsuka construction. Tsukamaki is done in a variety of traditional styles. Sterling silver is the primary material used for fuchi, kashira, and menuki. Tsuba are made from iron and finished using traditional methods. Other metals may be utilized to create fittings for custom orders. All processes are managed by strict standards and multiple quality control checks and product testing in Korea and the USA. Mat cutter models are tested on used Japanese tatami, for performance and durability. General purpose and hard target cutters are tested on a variety of bamboo (fresh through dry/hard/brittle).