The Meijin Iaito (SH5018) is an amazing testament of the quality produced by Hanwei. The blade is forged-folded T10 high-carbon steel with grooves (bo-hi) on both sides of the blade, which allows for a lighter blade and audible feedback when swung.
The blade is differentially tempered using a traditional claying method and has a beautiful grain pattern (hada) with visible layers. The tsuka is wrapped in genuine ray skin (same) and the tsuka-ito is premium black Japanese cotton. The black iron square tsuba, fuchi, & kashira are done in a “Turbulent Ocean” motif.
The habaki is a one-piece brass construction. The saya is done in a beautiful black matte striped finish going the whole length of the scabbard and the sageo is black cotton. The Meijin Iaito represents the pinnacle of production quality for Iaito swords.