Model 003 of the Dojo Pro series features a classic Shikashi double crane ('tsuru' in Japanese) hence it's name, a relatively common design and exact copy of a popular edo era antique.

Like all the fittings of these swords, the tsuba is solid iron – but so is the fuchi (band at the top of the handle) AND the kashira (end cap) – all acting in harmony to strongly reinforce the structural integrity of the entire handle in a way that is almost never seen on other swords under the $500 price point (nevermind on swords under $300!).

The tsuka/handle assembly itself is exceptionally tight and well put together, double pegged with REAL silk ito wrapped over REAL rayskin, wrapped in a traditional alternating style to ensure it does not loosen with use and tightly bound to a quality wooden core.

Furthermore, the handle is also properly ergonomically ‘shaped’ to follow the curve of the blade AND fit comfortably into the hand, creating a safe and firm grip - another rarity at this price point.

As you can see from the picture, these swords feature high end brass seppa (spacers) and habaki (blade collar), and the saya is strengthened with rich cholocate brown buffalo horn caps (Kurikata, Koguchi and Kojiri) with a red undersheen that appears in direct sunlight.

The black lacquered saya (sheath) itself is made from high quality wood and can be tied to your obi (belt) by hard wearing, dark brown synthetic sageo cord.

The strength of the fittings ALONE are head and shoulders above any other sword maker anywhere near this price point, but the 28” blade takes it to a whole new level again..

These 1060, through tempered, no nonsense monosteel blades are exceptionally HONEST and RELIABLE.

Hand forged and solidly built, there is not a trace of pretentiousness about them – no fake hamon, no bo-hi and no BS.

They are quite simply just extremely practical, utilitarian blades made according to the Dotanuki forging tradition – a school of sword making that made simple ‘maru’ lamination blades with a reputation for being plain, practical and to the point (speaking of which, the kissaki tip of the blade is reinforced with a diamond shape for added durability and transitioned much nicer than most other hand made monotempered blades at this price point).

Weighing 2.6lbs with a point of balance 5” from the tsuba these swords are designed for the CUT, not fluffing around with. In short they are serious blades with serious fittings designed as SERIOUS dojo workhorses..!

Click here for a hands on review of the Dojo Pro Katana, models 2 and 5

STATS

Nagasa: 27 inches from habaki, 28 from Muromachi (most blades measured from Muromachi)
Weight: 2.67 lbs
Tsuka: 11 inches
Point of Balance: 5 inches from tsuba
Motohaba: 1.2 inches
Sakihaba: 1 inch
Motokasane: @ 7mm
Sakikasane: @5.5mm

FEATURES

All IRON Tsuba, Fuchi and Kashira

Genuine Silk Ito Wrap, Real Rayskin and Brass Menuki handle ornament

Double pegged mekugi

Thick, expertly tempered, hand forged 1060 carbon steel blade

Hand cut and polished buffalo horn Kurikata, Koguchi and Kojiri

Recommended as a dedicated, frequent use dojo cutter

QUALITY CONTROL

Prior to shipping every katana undergoes a quality check to make sure there are no chips on the blade, cracks on the saya, rust, or lose fittings.

In addition, every blade undergoes a test cut to ensure the blade is ready for use the moment you receive it.