Asian Antique Shop » japanese swords http://asianantiquebargains.com Asian Antique Information & Discount Store Fri, 30 Jul 2010 18:00:24 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0 Examination of a Japanese Samurai Sword http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/examination-of-a-japanese-samurai-sword/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/examination-of-a-japanese-samurai-sword/#comments Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:57:26 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=165 Antique Japanese Samurai Sword: Ko Gassan 1/3 Sword Examination

This video shows the examination of an antique Japanese samurai sword. The blade is tilted at angles to the light to reveal fine qualities in the hada (untempered area), hamon and hataraki.
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103cm black ninja sword quenched blade razor sharp 103cm black ninja sword quenched blade razor sharp Paypal US $43.33 15m
HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp Paypal US $63.33 16m
128CM HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Shar 128CM HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Shar Paypal US $63.33 18m
HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp Paypal US $63.33 19m
HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Sharp HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Sharp Paypal US $59.99 19m
3 SWORD FREE STANDING STAND FOR SAMURAI SWORDS 3 SWORD FREE STANDING STAND FOR SAMURAI SWORDS Paypal 0 Bid US $.99 58m
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/examination-of-a-japanese-samurai-sword/feed/ 0 Japanese Swordsmith Ono Yoshimitsu http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/japanese-swordsmith-ono-yoshimitsu/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/japanese-swordsmith-ono-yoshimitsu/#comments Thu, 15 Jul 2010 03:43:15 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=160 Japanese Swordsmith Ono Yoshimitsu

Some of Japan's top Japanese sword craftsmen, Tatara operator Kihara Akira, Mukansa Swordsmith Ono Yoshimitsu and Mukansa polisher Fujishiro Okisato appearing on Discovery Channel's Weapons Masters- The Katana
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/07/japanese-swordsmith-ono-yoshimitsu/feed/ 0 Japanese Samurai Armor http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/06/japanese-samurai-armor/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/06/japanese-samurai-armor/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 04:14:10 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=155 The first prototype for Japanese samurai armor came about in the form of the yoroi during the Gempei War of 1181-1185. The weight of the yoroi was around 60lb. The upper-body armor of the samurai was known as the 'Do'. This comprised of the 'Sode', the suspended shoulder and upper-arm protection plates. The Sode had hoops by which silk cord was tied and then fixed to the back of the armor in an 'agemaki' / decorative knotted tassel. Guards were also placed over the shoulder cords, and a leather plate placed across the bow cords to prevent them from been cut or becoming ensnared during a skirmish.

A samurai's protective helmet, or Kabuto typically consisted of from eight to a dozen plates all fixed together with cone shaped bolts. Much like in the military of other cultures, a samurai's helmet would display the samurai's rank and his group or clan, and often be very elaborate and decorative looking. As many samurai had long hair, their ponytails would protrude through the tehen, a gap left in the centre of the helmets crown.

Shikoro is the name of the thick five-plated protector of the back of the head, neck and the cheekbone which was fastened to the bowl of the helmet. The top four plates of the Shikoro would be upturned to create the fukigaeshi. The idea of the fukigaeshi was to prevent the vertical slicing of the shikoro's horizontal fastening chords. A visor is also on the front of helmet and is known as the mabisashi. This would not only help to keep the sunlight out of the samurai's eyes, but its protrusion would also act as a degree of protection for the face from the extended and downward strike of the enemy’s sword.

As part of the samurai attire, mainly for those of higher importance an eboshi, a silk cap-like headgear would be worn under the helmet. As the samurai during this early time of the Gempei War fought much on horseback and utilized bows and arrows, the right arm of the standard samurai soldier had no restricting protection to allow for the drawing back of the bow. A light protective sleeve was worn on the left arm.

Not all fighters during the Gempei War were of the samurai class, and therefore were equipped differently and wore a different style of lighter armor called the 'Do Maru'. A body Wrap style of armor resting on the shoulders and fastening under the right armpit was far less restricting than the yoroi. It was based on this freer design of armor that development would be made for the samurai's armor of the future.

For a continuation of and a more in depth look at samurai armor, visit our website at http://www.japanese-samurai-swords.net
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Johnson
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/06/japanese-samurai-armor/feed/ 0 Antiques Week in Philadelphia Starts Today http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/04/antiques-week-in-philadelphia-starts-today/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/04/antiques-week-in-philadelphia-starts-today/#comments Sat, 17 Apr 2010 00:04:33 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=141 By Karla Klein Albertson
Inquirer Antiques Columnist

The past is always with us in Philadelphia, but Antiques Week, beginning Friday, is an unmatched opportunity for collectors to examine the best furniture and decorative arts of previous centuries. So many experts on hand, so many specialties to explore - enjoy the feast.
The Philadelphia Antiques Show, now held at the Navy Yard, started it all 49 years ago. Antiques Week has been greatly enhanced by the ongoing 23d Street Armory Antiques Show and the excellent spring Americana sale at Freeman's. Museums display great things, but at these events, serious collectors can look over, under, and into museum-quality antiques. And ask questions to their heart's content.
Start shopping Friday morning at the historic 23d Street Armory, where show manager Frank Gaglio has assembled 45 well-known dealers who offer classic Americana, excellent folk art, and some eclectic surprises.

Exhibitors such as Chuck White, Mario Pollo, and Stephen-Douglas Antiques lay out beautifully integrated room settings of American furnishings and folk art. Gemini specializes in topline antique toys, Piccolo Art in dazzling miniatures.

New on board this year is John Chaski, a young dealer from Delaware. Also fresh to the show is New York jewelry dealer Sooky Goodfriend, whose wares include cocktail shakers and cuff links for modern Mad Men.

Gaglio tries to offer an eclectic selection that will appeal to new generations of collectors. He remembers that his daughter Ciara, now 22, came up with the slogan "Save Natural Resources, Buy Antiques."

"Young people are attracted by the visual impact of objects, by nostalgia, and by comfort and usability in a 21st-century lifestyle," he says. "The collecting bug is still there, but you have to present the right material."
Gaglio is a great believer in the Antiques Week concept. He runs a complementary shuttle on Saturday and Sunday between his show, 30th Street Station, and the Navy Yard. At www.barnstar.com, you can print out a coupon for $5 off the price of a ticket. Lunch is available at the on-site cafe.

The Philadelphia Antiques Show gets under way Friday night with the best preview gala of the year. The 2010 event, a mix of antiques, food, and fashion, benefits the new Penn Center for Ocular Imaging.

Party tickets are available at many levels at www.philaantiques.com. Basic tickets are $250, with a special deal for young collectors, 35 and under, at $125. The display of 50 distinguished exhibitors opens to the general public Saturday at 11 a.m.; tickets are $18 at the door, $15 online.

This year's special exhibit, "A Call to Arms: Chinese Armorial Porcelain for the British and American Markets, 1700-1850," is dedicated to the memory of longtime exhibitor Elinor Gordon (1918-2009). On Sunday, exhibit curator Ron Fuchs will present a lecture at 1:30 p.m.
Want to see this venerable show move a bit more firmly into the present century? Check out the new World Collectors Night at the Navy Yard on Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m., sponsored by Anthropologie. A $125 ticket includes cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and access to exhibitors who will share expertise and some special finds. At 8 p.m., the crowd will move next door to Urban Outfitters for an after-party with dancing.

Connecticut folk-art exhibitor Allan Katz, whose offerings often sell in the first minutes of the show, will be one of the dealers on hand Saturday night. Happy to take part, he says: "I'm an educator. I love to spread the gospel. I'm not a hard-sell guy, I'm a passion guy."
"Young collectors have the opportunity to go to a show like this and ask questions. Pick up the objects, feel them, and there's a live person there to answer all your questions. They need to connect with the material visually, but also mentally."

Like so many of the exhibits at both weekend shows, Katz's folk art fits beautifully in classic or modern interiors. Why buy cheap new "design" that hits the trash pile five years later? Work out a payment plan to buy a worthwhile treasure that will last a lifetime.
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/04/antiques-week-in-philadelphia-starts-today/feed/ 0 Japanese Sword (Katana) Buying Guide http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-sword-katana-buying-guide/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-sword-katana-buying-guide/#comments Sat, 13 Mar 2010 05:13:12 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=126 The Decorative Katana As Design Accent
Japanese Katana Sword
A katana is a Japanese sword that is mostly used for swordfights as well as in various ceremonies. It is usually two-feet long and has a curved single edged blade. If you're fond of watching Samurai movies, you'll probably be familiar with this sword.
Today, katana swords are also used for decorative purposes. A decorative katana can become an impressive focal point to oriental style design themes in home and office interiors. There are katana swords that you can use for both functional and decorative purposes but there are also those that you can use for only one purpose - either as a decor accent or for martial arts training.

Intricate detail
The thing about decorative katana is that they are more aesthetically appealing than functional. They come in extravagant and rich colors with details that are at par with deluxe katana swords. The blade of a katana sword for decor is made of edged and tempered stainless steel and is about 27 inches long. The handle, for its part is nine inches in length. The size of decorative swords itself make them impractical for training and combat. They are also heavier than the conventional katana swords at three pounds.

Deluxe katana swords
If you want a decorative katana that you can also use for training, you want to opt for the deluxe varieties. These are relatively more expensive and are handmade to look like the authentic varieties. The blades of deluxe swords have been forged out of high-carbon steel and are clay tempered. These swords are also lighter at two pounds so you can use them for practical purposes.
Whether you're buying a katana for training or for its decorative function, make sure that you're getting a sword that feels and looks like its authentic version. Carbon steel that is differentially tempered is great if you're going to use the katana for real cutting and practicing aside from its being a room accent.
Kinds of Katana Swords include the following:

Practical katana swords
Practical katana swords are used for training and martial arts classes.
They have 29-inch long blades forged out of high-carbon steel. They are differentially tempered to obtain specific backs and edges.

Some blades come with blood grooves
Their handles are approximately 12 inches long. They can have leather or gold-wrapped grips.
They weigh one to two pounds.
They are ideal for dojo cutting exercises.
They normally come with wooden scabbards for storing.
They are coated with black lacquer or natural finish for a more authentic look.

Deluxe katana swords
De luxe katana swords can be used for display and practical purposes.
These expensive swords are handmade to replicate the authentic katana swords.

Their blades are forged out of high-carbon steel. They are differentially clay tempered to obtain RC 42-44 spines and RC 58-60 edges.
Their blades have tough, hard edges that resemble those in the old katanas.
They have strong, shock-absorbent bodies.
They have lacquered sheaths with Menuki cast.
They are approximately 40 inches long.
They weigh approximately two pounds.

Decorative katana swords
Decorative katana swords are for decoration only.
They have more extravagant color and detail compared to de luxe katana swords.
Their blades are made of edged and tempered stainless steel. They are approximately 27 inches long with 9-inch long handles.

Some models are embellished Ido style.
Their scabbards are colored and crackle finished to match the handle wraps.
They are heavier than most swords at three pounds.
They normally come with display stands.

Important buying tips
Authenticity: Choose a katana sword that looks and feels like the real thing. It should have a sharp, slightly curved, single edge blade. Research on how an authentic katana sword looks like to get an idea.

Materials used: For real cutting and practicing, choose a katana sword made of carbon steel differentially tempered to ensure flexibility and strength.

Weight: Choose a katana sword that weighs no more than three pounds. Any sword heavier than three pounds can be difficult to use and is no longer practical. Also, look for a well-balanced katana sword with tangs constructed with the blade.
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128CM HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Shar 128CM HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai dragon Katana Shar Paypal US $63.33 18m
HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp HandForged FoldedSteelSanMai saber Katana Sharp Paypal US $63.33 18m
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-sword-katana-buying-guide/feed/ 1 Japanese Katana Swords http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-katana-swords/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-katana-swords/#comments Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:01:37 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=123 Japanese Katana Sword
The katana emerged in the sixteenth century as a curved, single-edged weapon of the Samurai warrior class in Japan. When paired with a shoto (short sword) such as a wakizashi or the dagger-like tanto, the result is a daisho, a pair of swords worn representing the honor, social power and the very soul of the Samurai warrior. The longer katana was used in open combat primarily for cutting, slashing, and parrying maneuvers, while the shorter blades were used for close-quarters stabbing as well as seppuku, or ritual suicide. Katana swords were traditionally worn the edge facing up, and the art of drawing and attacking an enemy, known as iaido took years to master its many intricacies.

Although the traditional intention of the katana is no longer historically appropriate, there are several reasons to pursue a quality Japanese katana in today's world. For one, the art of sword making is highly regarded throughout the world, and particularly in Japan, making authentically made weapons highly collectible. The variations of folded steel can create a hada (grain) pattern of rare beauty, and the crafting of various fittings along with the tempering process of the steel combine to produce a true work of art in the purest sense.

The Practical Katana gives the martial artist the opportunity to own and use a Hanwei sword at the cost of an economy sword. The blade is forged and differentially tempered; using similar process as the more expensive blades. The temper line may be faked, but it is prominent. Cost savings are affected by using fittings that, while making no claims to authenticity, are very strongly built to withstand the rigors of cutting exercises in the dojo. The Practical Katana is an inexpensive functional sword and is a perfect buy for a student that is just starting out and doesn't want to risk damaging a more expensive sword.

The Bushido Katana has a hand-forged & folded powder steel blade, differentially tempered using a traditional claying method. The temper line (hamon) is evident and prominent and the grain pattern (hada) shows distinct layers. The saya are deeply lacquered in gold with inlaid brass cherry blossom (sakura) flowers. High quality ray skin (same) is used on the tsuka of the katana and wakizashi, while the tsuka of the tanto is a gold-plated brass with a battle-scene decoration in relief. The tsuba of the katana and wakizashi is of blackened and bronzed iron, with detailing in gold and silver and a battle scene decoration. The tsuka-ito on the katana and wakizashi and the sageo on all three pieces are woven from premium Japanese cotton. The fuchi and kashira are of blackened bronze with brass detailing, and the kojiri, koiguchi and kurikata are of polished buffalo horn. The blade collar (habaki) is a one-piece brass construction. The katana and wakizashi blades are un-grooved, while the tanto blade is grooved (bo-hi) on both sides. The katana and wakizashi have medium-length (chu) kissaki. Matching wakizashi and tanto are available. The Bushido Katana maybe expensive, but is well worth it. The blade is forged and folded from blue powder steel, which is one of the most durable and purest types of steel you can use to forge a sword. Even though the quality of the steel doesn't require it to be folded, it certainly doesn't hurt.

When buying a Samurai sword, you will find that a set of two swords is the norm, with a Wakizashi accompanying the Katana. The Katana is the longer of the two swords, normally measuring more than 24 inches. They are usually displayed on a black lacquered, wooden rack to match the customary sheaths. Some of the highest quality swords ever made used over 1,000 folds of folded carbon and raw iron. The blade was coated with specialized clay to allow for differentially tempering the cutting edge. The Katana can be used with one or two hands. Its size and thick, curved blade make it better suited for draw cuts rather than the fencing thrusts of a rapier.
Sword Care: Sharpening tips
• Never sharpen antique or expensive swords by yourself. With stainless steel decorator swords, it is okay.

• Avoid mechanical sharpeners as they override the sectional geometry of your sword and impose a bevel to the edge which is suited mostly for kitchen knives.

• With antiques - especially antique Japanese swords - the process of sharpening and polishing is one single process.

• Consult a trained Japanese sword polisher for Japanese swords.

• With swords of other cultures, it may be advisable to consult with an expert; in most cases, leave the patination intact, as this protects the blade steel already.

• Do not needlessly sharpen antiques lest you destroy the intrinsic value of the sword.
Caring for your sword will help make it last for generations. Most of the supplies mentioned below can be found at martial arts supply stores or better hardware stores.
• Oil - Always keep your blade lightly oiled to prevent rust. We recommend Japanese sword oil or refined clove oil.

• Hilts - Care for wooden hilts as you would any fine wood. Wood dries out with time and use and must be oiled. Use fine furniture oil, not a furniture wax or an oil containing wax. Polish wire-wrapped hilts as you would your blade but be sure to remove all the polish (a toothbrush works well for this).
• Storage - If the blade is store for more than a few weeks, do not store it in the scabbard. Wipe the blade down heavily with oil, wipe the wood down with furniture oil, and store in a cool, dry place.
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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/03/japanese-katana-swords/feed/ 0 Guide To Buying Authentic Japanese Swords http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/01/guide-to-buying-authentic-japanese-swords/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/01/guide-to-buying-authentic-japanese-swords/#comments Sun, 03 Jan 2010 21:59:56 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=95 By Paul Southren

Authentic Japanese swords can and usually do cost a small fortune.
In fact many (though not all) sword collectors maintain that to get a half way decent sword you need to be spending around US$1000. And the maximum? Well, the sky is the limit (there are quite a few Japanese made Katana that sell for around the US$25,000 mark).
So what about all those $50 swords being sold on ebay and everywhere else?
Well, at the end of the day, these swords are often junky ornamental "sword like objects". They can't be used as a martial arts weapon. Even just swinging them around with moderate force risks the blade snapping off at the handle...
But if you know what to look for, buying authentic Japanese swords at a reasonable price - say for around US$150 to $500 is quite possible. And in some cases, for even less than this amount of money, it's possible to get a nice sword that is well balanced, sharp, strong and an excellent 'bang for your buck' buy.
For start though - let's take a very quick look at what separated the authentic Japanese swords from the ornamentals:
• Japanese swords are slightly curved, sharp and single edged
• Authentic Japanese swords are light, fast weapons and should weigh no more than 3lbs max. They are also very well balanced
• Real Japanese swords aren't made from stainless steel - they are made from high carbon steel. They also have what is called a "differentially tempered blade" - meaning that the sharp edge of the sword is harder than the spine, giving the sword flexibility (so it doesn't shatter on impact) but also extreme cutting power.
• Real Japanese swords also have a tang (the part of the blade that goes into the handle) that is made as part of the blade, not a length of steel welded on afterwards (called a "rat tail" tang).
There are also a few other factors, such as traditional appearance and fittings to consider...
Now in our target price range of US$150 to $500 - there are only a few swords which qualify - and you'd be surprised, it isn't necessarily the most expensive ones either...
The first is the Generation 2 BWT Katana (around US$329 + shipping)
While I really like Gen2s line of European swords as top quality yet very affordable "beater" swords, their BWT Katana - while a good choice, still has a few major drawbacks. There are two versions of this sword - a more traditional but rather plain looking one and another that uses a lot of brown suede and has an almost surreal "cowboy" quality to it...
Neither are particularly attractive. But the biggest problem is a structural flaw - in that the BWT Katana uses water buffalo horn for the small but critical band under the hand guard (called the fuchi) that has actually been known to occasionally crack on impact...
Moving on...
A lot of people like the Nahuarra of Mexico Katana (RRP around US$200 - but they are almost impossible to actually buy at this price and tend to go for US$400+)
Unfortunately, they are a bit too plain, too heavy (around 3.52lbs), poorly balanced, sharp (but not as sharp as they should be), difficult to find and - well...
Moving on...
Cold Steel make a very durable "Katana" for just a tad over the US$300 mark. These swords are sharp and extremely durable. But they aren't in any way traditional. They aren't differentially tempered (they are a mono-steel sword, like a European blade - all of one uniform hardness) and they aren't balanced properly...
BUT - they aren't a BAD choice... Only thing is, in my opinion (and in the opinion of many Japanese sword enthusiasts the world over) there is a better and even cheaper alternative.
If you are really looking for an affordable "entry level" Japanese sword - there really is only 1 choice, and that's the Practical Katana and the Practical Plus Katana by Paul Chen's Hanwei Forge.
These swords have it all - and for an online price tag of around US$279 for the Practical Plus Katana and US$169 for the plain vanilla model - they offer outstanding value for money.
They are light (under 3lbs) and incredibly well balanced. They are made from top quality high carbon steel. They have a "differentially tempered" blade, a solidly constructed tang and boy - are these babies sharp! I've cut everything from cardboard boxes to lengths of rope, water filled plastic bottles (of all shapes and sizes in a row and hanging), bamboo and traditional rolled tatami mats and it's no exaggeration to say that I have never once actually felt any resistance to my cuts. In fact, many of my friends who aren't sword nuts are able to effortlessly cut a plastic water bottle filled with water so easily that they swore that they missed (until the water comes gushing out over their feet that is).
I just love these swords! And what's so cool about them is the price! NOTHING COMES CLOSE!
Now sure, they aren't the same as swords ten times the price. But I remember seeing on a website when I was first checking them out a side by side comparison of quite a few different "entry level" Katana - and these were the only cheap Japanese swords that even got a look in - and overall, they were just 33% behind swords TEN TIMES THE PRICE!
Anyway - at the end of the day, if you love authentic Japanese swords, and don't have (or don't want to spend) a whole lot of money, you should have a serious look at these swords! I guarantee, you'll join me and a small army of raving fans across the world...
For more information on Authentic Japanese Swords, including test cutting results and heaps more, check out my article by clicking on the link or visit my websites homepage: Sword-Buyers-Guide.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Southren

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)]]> http://asianantiquebargains.com/2010/01/guide-to-buying-authentic-japanese-swords/feed/ 0 The forging process of authentic Japanese swords http://asianantiquebargains.com/2009/10/the-forging-process-of-authentic-japanese-swords/ http://asianantiquebargains.com/2009/10/the-forging-process-of-authentic-japanese-swords/#comments Sun, 11 Oct 2009 00:03:48 +0000 admin http://asianantiquebargains.com/?p=82 Through the histroy of the samurai, the forging process used in the creation of authentic Japanese swords is as much an art form as it is a science. The steps involved have been refined throughout this sword’s history however, even with all the technological advancements, much of the work involved remains very similar to the techniques developed by the original masters of this craft.

From selecting the most suitable raw materials to hand-polishing each Japanese sword, the sword making process is a process that requires substantial knowledge of the real Japanese sword's history. It also requires knowledge of the available materials and probably most important, the process requires patience. It is, after all, the fine craftsmanship and the attention to detail that make the Japanese sword the remarkable piece that it is.

In order to create authentic Japanese swords of the highest quality, it's important to begin with high-quality steel. It’s also important not to take any short-cuts. The highest quality Japanese swords are made using Tamahagane or iron sand. Few swords made from this traditional material are made outside of Japan.

Folding and hammering
Forge Folding, which is also known as kitae, is an important step in the sword-making process as it is what helps to remove impurities from the raw metals and helps to evenly distribute the carbon content. Folding also is what creates the subtle grain pattern in the metal which is known as the jihada.

To begin, the smith selects the metal pieces he feels are suitable for the project. High-carbon and low-carbon pieces are usually combined which makes the metal malleable. Combining the carbons is also what helps to ensure that the resulting metal is neither too soft nor too brittle.
Once the pieces have been selected, the smith welds the pieces to create the block about the size of a brick that will form the outside layer of the sword called the kawagane. Next, the block is hammered out and folded onto itself several times. This laborious hammering/folding process will be repeated as necessary, usually 10 to 14 times. The smith determines the number of times the folding/hammering process will be repeated.

The folding and hammering process creates thousands of layers within the block. These layers are where the unique patterns called jihada, an important visual component of the Japanese swords, start to develop each time the block is folded and hammered. The smith can influence the look of this pattern simply by folding the block in different ways, either always in the same direction, or in alternating directions, or by folding crosswise.

When the outer layer is finished it is then wrapped around the sword's inner layer, called the shingane. The two pieces are then welded together and hammered into a long, thin shape that incorporates a slight curvature. Various other tools including planes and files are used to refine the shape of the blade. The piece is rough polished and at this point, it begins to resemble a sword.

Forging the blade
There are 2 main goals involved in the Japanese swords forging process. First, in order for the Japanese swords to maintain its sharpness, its edge must be hard. The blade's metal must also be flexible in order to absorb shock. The way to create a metal that is both hard and flexible at the same time was figured out centuries ago and is still in use today.
Heat-tempering the sword's leading edge, a process called Hamon, produces the real Japanese sword's most notable and most highly sought after visual characteristic: the undulating line, or wavelike appearance, that runs the entire length of the sword edge. This characteristic that is unique to every Japanese sword edge is the end result of the way the metal has reacted to the intense heat to which it has been subjected.
To achieve this effect, as well as the sharp edge, the smith first creates a clay mixture of ash, water, clay and other ingredients. A thick layer of the mixture is applied to the spine side of the blade and the layer is thinned the closer it gets to the blade edge. All but the blade's edge will be encased in this clay mixture.

This clay mixture coating is actually what helps control the amount of heat the different parts of the blade receive. As the sword blade's metal is heated over red-hot coals, the crystalline structure of the blade’s metal undergoes change, and the metal produces a milk-white pattern.
A number of different patterns can be achieved, and the smith can control the pattern’s outcome by varying the way the clay mixture is applied to the metal. The resulting edge patterns have different names including Suguha which corresponds to a hamon that is very straight. A line with a zigzag pattern is referred to as a sambonsugi.

As soon as the metal reaches the appropriate temperature, which is determined by visual inspection, it is removed from the heat source and immediately immersed in a trough of water. Immersing the blade in water to cool, while the clay coating is still intact, is what changes the composition of the metal.

The metal beneath the thickest part of the mixture cools more slowly and results in a composition that is softer and more flexible. The edge, on the other hand, cools very quickly which results in a very hard composition. Remember, this is the ideal combination for a real Japanese sword blade. The smith will then inspect the sword and only if it meets his high standards will the sword be passed on to the final stages.

Polishing and mounting
Hand-polishing is what gives Japanese swords their mirror-like appearance. It is also what helps to bring out the blade’s unique characteristics. In particular, polishing brings out the intricacies of the hamon and the jihade, which are the focal points of the sword.
Polishing real Japanese swords takes years to learn and perfect. Those with the appropriate sword polishing skills typically will spend up to 30 hours painstakingly polishing each blade to perfection. Japanese sword polishers use a variety of graduating stone grits and an ample quantity of water to sharpen and shape the blade. Polishing helps bring forth the beautiful, one-of-a-kind crystalline pattern that is so desirable.
Since today's Japanese samurai sword is hand-crafted more for pleasure than for necessity, the final step is to mount the sword so that it can be admired by all.

The forging process of a japanese sword made by the huanuo forge.

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