The KUSANAGI 草薙

The Legend The Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (草薙の剣) is a mythical Japanese blade and one of the three sacred treasures of Japan. Found by the deity Susa-no-O within the tail of the Yamata no Orochi during his legendary battle with the great serpent, the sword was said to have magical powers that allowed the user to control wind.  Existing as a significant piece within the realms of Japanese folklore, the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi represents the virtue of valor, and was later bestowed upon the legendary Japanese warrior Yamato Takeru.   The Knife  The design of our KUSANAGI folding knife draws from the legend of its discovery within the Yamata no Orochi, featuring a 5 inch katana steel blade in the traditional tanto design and a black handle engraved with an 8 headed serpent. Grooves have been hand-cut into the handle to simulate the grip of a katana, and the knife comes together with a custom wooden box. Care The blade of the KUSANAGI is crafted from a non-stainless high carbon steel that must be kept away from water to prevent oxidization. A layer of lacquer is applied initially upon creation in order to protect it, but this layer will eventually wear off (please do not remove this by force). The blade can be cared for using oil or a carbon steel eraser should a patina start to build up. If you wish to have receive the blade without the lacquer coating, please reach out to us at info@hatanosen.com with your order number and request. Safety In accordance with Shopify's regulations regarding the sale of weapons, it is important to note that the KUSANAGI is NOT a weapon, but a kitchen utility knife. It can and should only be used for general purpose activities such as cutting fruits, opening packages, skinning fish, and other miscellaneous tasks.