Kuro Akane Katana | 1060 Folded Steel Red & Black Pattern Katana with Hi

The Kuro Akane Katana is an embodiment of profound, simmering intensity. Its name, "Kuro Akane" , translates to "Black Madder"—a deep, dark, saturated red that captures the essence of its unique blade. This is not the bright red of fresh flame, but the deep, knowing glow of embers settling in shadow. The blade's stunning red and black folded pattern flows like molten rock, a testament to its 1060 folded steel construction (8,192 layers). A *Hi* (blood groove) runs the length of the blade, providing audible feedback (*Tachi-Kaze*) while reducing its weight. This dark elegance is complemented by an intricate iron tsuba, featuring a black *sukashi* (openwork) design of coiling botanical vines. From the premium black brocade sageo to the full-tang construction, the Kuro Akane is a sophisticated and powerful piece designed for the discerning collector.

Why Choose the Kuro Akane Katana?

• Red & Black Folded Blade: Hand-forged from 1060 steel and folded 13 times (8,192 layers), the blade features a unique red and black treatment that highlights the flowing *hada* (grain).
• Full-Length *Hi* (Blood Groove): Features a *Hi* on each side of the blade, which reduces weight, improves balance, and creates the classic *Tachi-Kaze* (sword wind sound) when swung.
• Botanical Vine Tsuba: The iron tsuba features an elegant *sukashi* (openwork) theme of coiling vines, adding a layer of sophisticated storytelling.
• Through-Hardened Durability: The blade is through-hardened (overall quenched) to an HRC of 54, creating a highly resilient blade ideal for practice.
• Premium Fittings: Features genuine rayskin (Same'gawa) wrap, black silk ito, and a distinctive high-grade black brocade silk sageo.

Specifications

Dimensions & Geometry

• Overall Length: 40.9" (104 cm)
• Blade Length (Nagasa): 27.8" (70.5 cm)
• Handle Length (Tsuka): 10.6" (27 cm)
• Blade Geometry: Shinogi-Zukuri
• Tip (Kissaki): Chu-Kissaki
• Width at Base (Motohaba): 1.26" (3.20 cm)
• Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 0.91" (2.30 cm)

Weight & Handling

• Total Weight: 2.67 lbs (1.21 kg)
• Weight without Sheath: 2.18 lbs (0.99 kg)
• Point of Balance (P.O.B.): 5" from Tsuba

Materials & Construction

• Blade Steel: 1060 Folded Carbon Steel (8192 layers)
• Blade Construction: Maru, Hand-Forged, Hand-Polished
• Blade Treatment: Special Red & Black Finish
• Hardening (Yaki-ire): Through-Hardened (Overall Quenched)
• Groove (Hi): Full-Length Hi on each side
• Hardness (HRC): 54
• Fittings (Koshirae):
  • Guard (Tsuba): Iron with Black Finish, Botanical Vine Theme
  • Fuchi/Kashira: Alloy and Copper
  • Collar & Spacers (Habaki & Seppa): Brass
  • Handle Wrap (Ito): Black Silk
  • Rayskin (Samegawa): Genuine Black Rayskin
• Sheath (Saya): Hardwood with Black Lacquer
• Scabbard Cord (Sageo): Black Brocade Silk

Features

• Tang: Full Tang with 2 Mekugi (pegs)
• Usage: Collection, Display, and Martial Arts Practice (Iaido / Tameshigiri)
• Cutting Practice: Suitable for tameshigiri on tatami mats, green bamboo, and paper.