Raptor Tanto

Description of the Product

Tanto is single edged Japanese dagger that is best known as a side arm carried by the Samurai during the Japanese Medieval Times. Samurai would carry as a part of his attire a long and a short blade tucked under his belt whether he was on a battlefield or strolling the streets during peace. With the longer Katana (sword) a shorter Wakizashi (short sword) or a Tanto (dagger) would be carried. This combination of two weapons was called Daisho and only a person belonging to Samurai-Class was allowed to carry it. Tanto alone was allowed to anyone in Feudal Japan as the knife is one of the oldest, most common and versatile all-purpose tools across all cultures and times.

The Raptor series has been designed by the cutting master James Williams. It was created for the practitioner who does not necessarily have access to bamboo mats but who wishes to practice and perfect his cutting technique. The blades are forged in 5160 high-carbon steel and are specially quenched and tempered to produce a very high resilience and a greater tolerance of misdirected cuts than a conventional differentially hardened blade. This spring steel structure also avoids the need for excessive thickness, allowing the blades to replicate the weight and handling characteristics of Japanese originals. The edge geometry is configured to facilitate the cutting of both soft and semi-hard materials without chipping, allowing the cutter a wide choice of targets.

The Raptor Tanto blade is forged from high quality 5160 high-carbon steel and marquenched to an edge hardness of 57HRC to create a durable martensite steel structure. The tang (nakago) is full length and pegged in place with a traditional bamboo peg. The Tsuka (handle) has a wood core, and is covered in genuine same (rayskin). The Tsuka-ito is special non-stretch sueded wrap for firm grip and wear resistance. Menuki, the grip-enhancing brass ornament, feature Raptor feathers. The Tsuba is of traditional blackened iron. Fuchi and Kashira, the fittings at both ends of the handle, are blackened steel with Raptor motif. The Saya (scabbard) is wood with non-fingerprinting textured lacquer finish.

The Katana and Wakizashi of the Raptor series are matching pieces for this Tanto, but also very effective cutting tools in their own right. These pieces will allow the cutting practitioner to perfect techniques for each of the three weapons. They are made in the blade style of James Williams' personal Nami Ryu swords, and they complete an impressive display.

Included is traditional black cloth bag to keep your dagger in pristine condition when in storage or while transporting. Made by Hanwei. Specs can vary slightly from piece to piece.

Overall length:43,5 cm
Blade length:27,4 cm
Handle length:13 cm
Weight:380 g
Point of Balance:4,2 cm
Width at Guard:2,8 cm
Width at Tip:2,0 cm
Thickness at Guard:6,7 mm
Thickness at Tip:4,8 mm
Blade material:5160 Carbon Steel
Sharpness:Very sharp