Product Description for Seasoned Ho Wood For Katana Shirasaya

Maker: Misc Makers (click to see more by this maker)
Price: $87.00
Item num: 86457
Total length: 42.20 in.
Item weight: 30.80 oz.
Description: Since before 1000AD, traditional Japanese knife handles and saya were formed from the wood of the Ho tree, also known as Honoki or Japanese magnolia (not to be confused with hinoki or Japanese cypress). Ho wood continues to be chosen for these applications during contemporary times because it is soft and won't scratch a blade, as well as being water resistant, strong and slow to split in harsh environments. It also releases an inert gas which inhibits oxidization of metal. When properly seasoned, ho wood has virtually no sap in it, and therefore no resins which may corrode carbon steel. It's typically seasoned for about 10 years before it is used for saya construction.
This seasoned natural Honoki wood is perfect for making katana shirasaya. It measures 42.2 inches x 2 inches x 1.35 inches (107 cm x 5 cm x 3.5 cm) with a curve of 1.57 inches (4 cm). Supplied as one piece of wood. This will accommodate most swords, including making the tsuka. It can also be cut down for form saya for kitchen cutlery.
Availability: In stock. Usually ships in 1-2 business days