Nihonto Antique Tanto

There are also very noble, high-quality finishes
We offer an interesting range in different quality levels.

So there is something to suit every taste. Have fun discovering our range of antique tanto and kaiken.

In a class of its own - the Japanese tanto

Are you looking for the perfect specimen for your collection or do you want to acquire a historic Nihonto? Then you've come to the right place! It is a traditional Japanese sword in knife length.

The term is made up of the words Tan (= short) and To (= sword).

Tanto and Kaiken - What's the difference?

Tanto and kaiken (or kwaiken) are synonyms, meaning the same thing. Nowadays, the term tanto has become established and is mainly used for this type of sword.

What is the history of the tanto?

It is one of the oldest bladed weapons from Japan.

It later became known as the samurai knife. However, many people in the civilian population also carried such a knife.

Due to its widespread use, there were many versions, from the very simple knife in a wooden mount to the elaborately decorated objet d'art.

Like the other samurai swords, it was made from Tamahagane steel.

It was one of the first samurai weapons and was around long before the katana became modern.

It was already worn as a second sword when the samurai were still using tachi. This set (tachi and tanto) was the first pair of swords to be called daisho.

A name that today is primarily associated with the set of Katana and Wakizashi is connected.

Since, unlike the tachi and katana, it only had to be used relatively rarely in battle, there are comparatively many well-preserved examples.

Special form Yoroi doshi

Yoroi doshi are a special form which, in contrast to the previously described examples, were made exclusively for the sword and played an important role.

They are knives for piercing the opponent's armour. As it was difficult to use a long sword effectively in close combat, yoroi doshi were an important tool.

The name of this special form is made up of Yoroi (鎧), which means armour, and Toshi (通し), which means to pierce.

For their area of use, these knives need to be more robust than the general purpose models. The blades are usually much thicker.

Tanto and the meaning for Seppuku/Harakiri

Seppuku/Harakiri is the ritual suicide of the samurai, which was mainly carried out in hopeless situations to avoid capture by enemies or as a death penalty.

Due to the handling, such short blades were generally used for this purpose.

Samurai knives in our online shop

Whether you are a lover of historical weapons or simply a fan of Japanese culture. We will deliver your sword.

The specimens offered here are Nihonto with a historical background.

As always, we do not include in our range Replicaswhich can be produced cheaply but do not have the same quality as Japanese products.

Our collection offers a wide range of styles, materials and sizes to meet your individual needs.

From handcrafted masterpieces to affordable options, we have something for everyone.

A tanto is not just a bladed weapon, but can also be a work of art that appropriately embodies the rich history and culture of Japan.

With carefully designed blades and ornate handles, they are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing.

We offer a wide range of high quality tantos at competitive prices. We pride ourselves on offering our customers only the best products and providing first class customer service.

Browse our collection today and find the perfect one for your needs!