They are world renowned, seen in movies and replicas populate as decoration in many American homes, but making the real deal is much more complex than assembly line manufacturing.

I am talking about the Japaneses sword, generally the Katana, a single-edged, curved, long-sword, used by Samurai from about the 15th century and by other Japanese Officers and soldiers since that period.

Even today, antique and modern forged Japanese swords can be found, many made by a few hundred swordsmiths across Japan.

What makes these swords, whether you are talking about the Katana or another variation of sword, is how they are made – often forged from raw ore and layered based on flexibility and hardness to allow for the most effective utilization possible.

They truly are an amazing example of artisan craftsmanship and to see how it is done, check out the video on the next page.

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