And there is one special "woke parasite nation", that has destroyed the two most advanced, most innovative and most fascinating pure peoples in mankinds history.... Guess which one and guess, which one is soon and finally going down into the abyss of time due to the satanic believe of It's Leaders?!
Monohoshizao was the Nodachi that Kojiro supposedly used, no idea where you've got Bizen Nagamitsu. The name translates as 'The Laundry-Drying Pole'. I assume the implication being that he was about to take out the dirty laundry.
I love how calming and silent this documentary is. Documentaries nowadays are like action movies with blockbuster background music and over usage of cuts.
@Satellite0926 I do not believe that for a second. It is not nearly as easy as this master swords smith with centuries of sword making history in his family made it look, but something that is earned through lifelong dedication and sacrifice. You can't just come in, watch a documentary and somehow expect to mimic this specialized craftsmanship, especially not on the same level of perfection. Furthermore, you need access to special Japanese steel, which is made only once a year in a very traditional and unique way. You can not come in and easily demand access to this highly regarded niche steel product and expect to get it. Lastly, the customers will for the most part (99%) try to acquire a Katana made by one of the handful master swordsmiths, that are part of a tradition and history that goes far back. That is one major aspect that makes these Katanas so appealing. It is not just a tool but a piece of art or even history and some would even argue something akin to a religious artifact. I don't believe that this will likely change in the near future, or ever, regardless of some westerners being able to copy this process or not. I mean, think about it, if you ever get the chance to acquire one of these marvelous pieces of history and tradition, do you want an original made in the line of true tradition and history, or something copied from outside, which has no part in this tradition nor history? I, for one, am dead set on the original.
This is honestly an honor to witness. Such skill and dedication that goes into making such a strong and powerful yet beautiful work of art is truly admirable.
I watch this at least once every month or two, along with other videos featuring Yoshindo san. He is not only an absolute master of his art, but a very warm and wonderful man as well. And very courageous to press on in teaching the next generation following the tragic death of his son, who was his heir apparent.
Oh man, that is so tragic... I'm really sorry for him. So unfortunate that the line of his family tradition is now broken, I mean it could very well go back for centuries, which is the case for many master craftsmen of his reputation/standing in Japan. But I'm glad that he keeps going and even trains the next generation. That is true tradition and something really worth doing.
I've seen plenty of documentaries that uses electron microscopes and laser scanning and all that to show the molecular structure of these swords, and that's really cool, but the simple demonstration using Playdough was probably the most effective one in showing why these swords are so special. What a great documentary
You do realize that's all BS, right? The folding does nothing to make it stronger than typical steel, and it's not sharper either. The folding is because Japanese steel has high impurities and too high carbon. The folding squishes out the already melted impurities that have a lower melting point than steel, and every time you expose the steel to air it loses carbon. European steel has always been superior.
Generations of information, technique, skill, craftsmanship, dedication and tradition ingrained into each sword. Truly Amazing. How can you not Love and Admire the Japanese people...
Formidável a técnica empregada no fabrico dessas espadas. Que nunca se perca esse conhecimento ancestral, por respeito aos grandes mestres que dedicaram as suas vidas, a dar vida a essas espadas. Um grande abraço e um muito obrigado por mostrar o seu belo trabalho. Daqui de Portugal envio um forte abraço com muito carinho, para essa cultura do Japão tão maravilhoso.
@Mark Lyons The knowledge learned goes back centuries.. it's not like a guy just made a few in his garage and figured it out... There were breakthroughs all along the way and each generation building on the backs of their ancestors. Kinda like pron films.
My thoughts exactly! And what must have been meticulous note taking. And all without the modern metallurgist's knowledge of impurities, carbon content, whether or not to temper, etc.,etc. The Japanese of that time period were amazing craftsmen in many different fields. Check out some of their wood joinery techniques.
Just did some digging online. The swordsmith featured in this documentary is Yoshindo Yoshihara, and for all wondering, he is still alive and actively making masterpieces.
@F I'm very sorry to hear that. It's a tragedy that yet another great artist was taken from us-and especially from his family-too soon. I am, however, glad that the next generation is continuing the family tradition. Thanks for the update.
@YoYoJoe US$60,000 is definitely a large pricetag, but you get a one-of-a-kind piece made by a master of a technique that's been used for centuries. I feel it's worth it if you have the kind of money to afford it.
To add to you research, his son, bless his soul also forged katanas but passed away prematurely due to cancer, if I remember correctly. I believe his grandson will now continue the legacy
He dedicated himself to the artistry and craftsmanship of sword making. Only it doesn’t seem like a sword at all. The amount of detail and time into building it made it feel like it came to life out of the flame of his forge. It’s beautiful and functional. I loved this it’s the documentary I didn’t know I needed. Once I began I couldn’t stop watching. Good video.
This is one of the most enjoyably cogent documentaries I've seen on katana making-free of a lot of annoying pseudo Japanese music, and dumb reenactments of samurais. Every step is explained with Japanese words and processes displayed. Thank you kindly!
@orion khan yeah the other longer documentary made by the history channel is full of romanticized bullshit. they take the mythological almost weeb kind of stance for the Katana, whereas this documentary is just the facts.
This doc not only shows the style of japanese swordsmith but also his patience, resilience, hard work and concentration his willing to put in his masterpiece following the time that goes in crafting one. Just facinating!!!
This was amazing ! I’m not sure I’d open up my workshop and demonstrate hundreds of years of “secret” sword making…but I’m glad this master sword smith did as a study in an integral part of feudal Japan.
Its pretty appropriate to identify it as the Japanese sword, given that there are many variations on the traditional Katana. Dai-Katana, Odachi, Wakizashi, even the tanken knife all have the same basic construction, but in different sizes, demanding different uses and techniques in combat. Just goes to show how deep of an art form this is.
A little-known fact about Japanese swords. 1. Japanese swords have been famous in Asia since the middle ages, and they were exported to China, Korea and distant Asian countries. Influenced by Japanese swords used by pirates in the medieval period, some swords in China and Korea came to resemble Japanese swords. 2. The forging method used by modern Japanese swordsmiths was developed in Japan in the 1500s. In the 1500s, the Bizen school of swordsmiths, the largest group of swordsmiths in Japanese swords, was destroyed by a great flood, and uniform steel began to circulate throughout Japan, so the accurate forging method of Japanese swords before that was not accurately inherited. Therefore, Japanese swords are divided into the Koto Period (Old sword period) before the 1500s and the Sintho Period (New sword period) after that. 3. Since the 1900s, Koreans came to Japan and learned how to make Japanese swords from Japanese swordsmiths. Using this technology, they started to make swords in Korea, and they claim that "We are restoring old Korean swords in a traditional way.". However, these technologies were developed in Japan in the 1500s and are forging technologies in the Sinto period (New sword period). In addition, most of the restored swords are similar to Japanese swords exported from Japan to Korea in the medieval period and not to Korean old swords.
@V Old katana is most beautiful ,sharp and strong. New katana (1500〜) can't compete. It's because of material and method. So japanese had treated old katana as family clan's treasure for long time until GHQ banned. Famous and legendary katana in japan is almost old. Poor english from a japanese.sorry.
I don’t know how many times I have watched this but I know it never gets old. I love how much care they put into everything they do. The swords are beautiful and in my eyes priceless.
A great Documentary ; thanks a lot for sharing this fantastic video about the Japanese sword, the soul of the Samurai. All the crafting of this work of art, this high level and unique creation, is very precise, extremely difficult and complex. All the process is full of beauty, strength and deep tradition. Thanks for those moments of pure pleasure.
One of my prized posessions is a Japanese short sword my friend brought back to America in 1945. He said there was a huge pile of swords being cut up to disarm the Japanese. He asked his CO if he could have one and picked one out. I traded pre 1933 U.S. gold coins for this priceless to me Wakazashi. After the signature was examined I was told my sword was made in 1661. I will treasure it to my dying day.
You should try to find the family it belong and give it back to them its à spoil of war and it belong to their rightful owner probably they will buy it back from you at a fair price
Absolutely humbling, I have been I the metal industry all my life and never have I seen this level of intricate art , truly this is an art in itself ! 🙏🏼
I love watching traditional japanese swordmaking. So soothing. How about a video about the kiln steel making process? It's as beautiful an art as the forging of the blade.
Absolutely amazing and no words can explain the application I have for such love and compassion for the craftsmanship I so greatly and deeply love his since of pride in his work I’m that way but never to be as skilled as this man is in his work. But all in all I always take lots of pride in everything I do always doing everything as if I’m doing it for my creator.
The Japanese, their culture, the amazingly meticulous way they do things. It makes me smile. In a time where it seems that everything is done halfway or with corners cut, they do things The right way.. this video is proof of the professionalism and hard work they put in with everything they do.
LMFAO Bro you do realize the folding only serves to squeeze out the melted impurities that have a lower melting point than steel, right? It amazes me how much these people are able to manipulate you in to believing they are better than European swords
@Sir Scrotus nah, politicians flooding the country with unskilled labor and highly skilled artisans don't work for $5/hr. Id sit at home before I would work for peanuts . America didn't have that problem until the immigration act of 1965.
Absolutely stunning! So much thought process gone into making a perfect Sword! Heat treatment done on the sword did took sometime to digest the fact that no oil quenching is performed. Still This sword is perhaps best tensile strength with no Brittleness and also bit of flex in the blade.Does defies the law of heat treatment,Master in his best form.One of the worlds best war combat weapon. "SAMURAI"
As a person that studied the Japanese language... I must rewatch this and learn all the parts of the Katana, process names, tools, and everything, and learn how to write it down.
Found this after watching a documentary on Damascus steel blades and I just have to say how awesome the overall history of sword making techniques from different cultures is to see.
I've always been interested in Japanese sword smithing amazing patients, skilled experience, and a beautifully finished sword only the Japanese have figured out how to blend a soft core with a hard outer shell making for a sword that can absorb impact without breaking truly the most beautiful swords in world history I am humbled, aragoto.....
As a Westerner I am honoured to have been able to see this piece of Nippon history. It is a part of their soul that conquered the world with its beauty!✌️🙏
Amazing craftsman. Beautiful weapon... a lot of patience and skill required! I know modern steel and technique would produce a stronger weapon but this is just art!
The fire starting tradition this master sword maker begins for his work is definitely very cool to watch... The samurai sword has to be one of the greatest weapons ever created.
Absolutely incredible to see his mastery of the hammer, being capable of creating a long even flat straight line, tapered into blade. No machining, no forge press. I couldn't even draw that with a ruler.
This is a live version of the book "The craft of the Japanese Sword". I fawned over that book in my late teens during the late 90's. Thank you for the upload.
Im always just amazed that these smiths are able to hammer out a perfectly proportioned and symmetrical blade by beating a length of heated steel with a hammer. To do something like that with nothing but eyeball judgement is just amazing
I loved this documentary. It gave a sense of artistry, dignity and sense of beauty from crafting a katana without glorifying the sword itself. It is rare to see documentaries about the Samurai Sword that don't say its the best sword of all time.
A master artist and Craftsman something so beautiful, yet so deadly! Form and Function to its perfection. Thank you it was an honor to watch you create this beautiful weapon.
I have an enormous respect for the art. When I was a lowly apprentice in the culinary arts to become a Chef, I had the honor to learn under a renowned Japanese Chef, Sukie. When I graduated Sukie had a set knives made for me. Sukie's Family have been making Samurai swords for 9 generations. The best set of knives ever. Chef Ken
That is incredible. Their dedication to a discipline is second to none. I dedicated over 4 decades of training in the Aiki arts and at times directly under a Shihan from Japan. The concept of Shugyo is not easily understood nor earned.
This is so cool, what a magnificent culture Japan has, I particularly love the way he fired his forge, no grinders, no drills, no modern tools at all, that’s cheating.
I have been watching documentaries for over 40 years, and this program rates very high. I offer my thanks to the professionals who shared the mysteries of their craft, and to the people who wrote, produced, and presented this program. Well done.
I'm not Japanese and I do not know the history of Samurai in detail, but I will one day own a Katana to support this amazing art and to own a treasure that will last for centuries.
I wouldn't call it a treasure. I mean, it's a work of art, but it's not really any different then any other weapon that has the same time put into it. /shrug
This is amazing. In this day and age i find real appreciation for something that is made with true craftsmanship and respect for the ability of the craftsman. Something that is truly handmade
Bradley b sorry to see you so butthurt over a simple observation lol ANYHOW apparently i have dishonored the thread here so I'll just go kill myself lmao fuckin morons lol
@StudyinSteel, the nature of metal is better today, true. However the mixing of harder and softer steels together is a difficult art which very few will ever achieve, at least to the level of the sword builder. What I found most interesting is the hand shaping techniques, after the forging was completed. It's also how I have shaped knives in the past.
There's plenty of things in this would that aren't completely hand made but still take a lot of skill to make. I think these smiths are more doing the important job of reminding people how things were done in the past. You can get better steel now because we have resources and methods that didn't exist back then, but these are "proven" techniques that were to get the best out of some bad iron.
This is a real art of katana its been made by hardwork. Besides in cutting a long bar or flat steel, sanding, finishing sharpened. Without forging. I really appreciate this sword maker.
For the whole duration of the film I thought I was back in those times, the simplicity, elegance yet complexity of the Japanese way. Watching this actually calmed me down. I even had to make myself some green tea to get in tune with the vibe.haha excellent documentary. thank you.
Wonderful video that shows how the craft of sword making has survived the passage of time even when few follow the time-tested methods of the masters. One thing I noticed in the forging process was that this Master Swordsmith kept his hammer wet, something I've never seen in any other blade making video; I wish they had explained why do it that way... nonetheless he produced a real work of art.
wow learning alot here ty so much. ive always wondered how they made such great swords. some of the swords i hv seen in movies and stuff are beautiful, now i know how they were made from scratch. ty to all the hardworking swords makers who make this possible. the swords are so beautiful. awesome work . to create a sword as beautiful as this is breathtaking. ty for showing us
I just google translated the Japanese word "Jihada " to English, " Skin " is what Google says, What I really think it means is " Soul," or " Spirit " or even "Character." Almost like the" Essence of a Rune." It is an honor to be able to watch this rare treat of a Master Swordsmith and his skills in action. The doubling effect with every fold is like sacred geometry with metals. The golden ratio of carbon.
Imagine the process of discovery. The science is so complicated and precise, but these guys pulled it off without an ounce of electricity! Absolutely outstanding!
Beautiful, but I was amazed when I discovered that laminating/pattern welding dates to the first millennium BC in Europe, with Celtic, and later Germanic swords exhibiting the technique.
Always been fascinated with Nihonto making, when I was a kid I made my own out of a vw spring, I still have it and it's still quite sharp for a dangerous toy a kid shouldn't be playing with, 😆
Possibly the most informative, no Bullshit, down to earth documentary about Nihonto on the internet. Too bad I would've liked to see also the polishing and the koshirae making process in more depth, but still this was amazing. Yoshihara sensei is truly a living treasure for Japan that makes me proud of being half japanese :)
@Jona Jo Yes, the site of kanna nagashi was used by farmers as rice terraces. Many rice terraces remain in Japan. Japanese iron sand contains vanadium. Vanadium combines with the carbon in the steel to strengthen the steel. The effect of vanadium makes katana excellent in hardness, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, and toughness, and it becomes beautiful when sharpened. Iron ore does not contain vanadium. According to a survey of vanadium detected in ironware at Japanese archaeological sites, It seems that Japan changed the material of iron making from iron ore to iron sand from around the 3rd century. In ancient Japan, impurity slag was called noro, and impurity discharge work was called noro dashi. Even if I search for the words noro and noro dashi, there is no explanation and it seems that they are not well known. Since tamahagane emits slag, there are few impurities.
@T N Thanks for dispelling this misconception. Just to add on, iron sand was often refined through a process known as *kanna nagashi* , where a system involving flowing water and slopes were used to essentially pan out iron from the sand. This can contrate contents of sands that range 2% or 5%, and bring that number up to 80%. Not to mention that they were capable of producing cast iron which can be decarburized into usable steel.
@Andrew Furusawa Sand iron, which is the material of katana, is a good quality material with less phosphorus and sulfur. Phosphorus and sulfur are impurities that make steel brittle. In Japan, impurities were removed by the Tatara iron-making method, which was created from the 5th century. The Tatara ironmaking method uses the difference in melting temperatures of iron, phosphorus, and sulfur to remove impurities. Old craftsmen called the impurities Noro. The ingredients of tamahagane are carbon 1.36% silicon 0.03% manganese 0.01% phosphorus 0.029% sulfur 0.0026% copper 0.01%. The content of impurities such as phosphorus and sulfur in tamahagane is much lower than in modern steel. By removing unnecessary carbon by smithing, the carbon content is reduced to around 0.7%, which is suitable for katana and is not too hard. And the steel of katana is in a state where microstructures with different hardness, austenite and martensite, are dispersed. When katana is sharpened with a sharpening stone, austenite is easy to scrape and martensite remains, so it becomes like a "micro saw". The person who handles katana pulls katana at the moment of slashing. Today, in Japan, a special steel called Yasugi Specialty Steel is made from the method of making katana materials. This special steel has the same properties as katana, and since it is hard and elastic, it is used for various purposes. This special steel is high-speed tool steel, cutting tool steel, cutlery steel, electronics materials, high-grade kitchen knife materials, razor materials, automotive parts materials, automotive engine parts, aircraft engine parts, cutter for artificial satellite separations, etc. It is used for various purposes.
This is what I love about Japan - focus on what you are creating, be patients & dexterous, and true works of art will emerge - no matter whether it is swords, kimonos, food, gardens etc.
Damascus steel, named for Damascus Spain where it was an art form but also made in many other places such as Greece, is also a combination of hard and soft metals. It also is stronger than the uniform steel which was common worldwide. Not every swordsmith, whether in Japan or elsewhere could make combination steels like this. The Japanese swordsmiths are known for their skill, and rightly so, but they were not the only people who could make superior steel and blades.
For some reason I have been addicted to watching sword making videos lately. I think it's the idea of creating a one of a kind tool using metal to create a unique work of art. Making a katana looks to be very work intensive, complex, and requires a lot of skill and expertise but the end product is totally worth all the hard work that went into it.
I have always had a fascination with blacksmithing, and wanted to do it for a while. Thus video kind of renews that desire... Remember you'll absolutely need a good solid anvil device to get good work done.
Just a quick question, but how long do you think it took to make a modern tank or michine gun. Black powder weapons have been in use for over 800 years, and Leonardo da Vinci designed a tank before he died in the 16th century. Four hundred years to the first tanks used in mass in any war. A couple hundred years to create something iconic to a culture is fairly common.
Just so that you know that these custom works of art for a real traditional Japanese sword would have run you into the six figures or more. With that said this sword making art is a dying art of tradition and not at all an easy task to learning let me reassure you, the whole reason why I have said that about it being a dying art of tradition and why it's a truly dying art is because it's a very super difficult craftsmanship to learn and to pass down to one generation to the next and with that also said, It can take you almost a whole lifetime to learning this art in sword craftsmanship. Take it from me it is not at all an easy task to learning. Because I have tried it and I don't have what it takes to doing this their ways of tradition. It's one thing to forge anything else but as far as it comes to doing this is nearly impossible to learn especially learning how to know the exact temperatures to move the sword at and at what speed and so on as they said in the video. However But I must say that I do have very much and true respect for their craftsmanship and their work and honor and traditions. I have blacksmith skills too but doing something like this is insane hard work and dedication and devotion to this craft.
Remember in japan attacking enemy with out prior knowledge was considered cowardice. Thats just what they did at pearl. Yes i am old guy that does not forget. The sword was beautiful my hat off to this craftsman.
Amazing sword documentary, as the third cave lionen after musashi and pharoah kafre, it'll be great when I can get some money saved up to get some japanese swords. As with playing basketball and thowing with my left hand, I'll of course be carrying my swords on my right side probably, as with taking cover with my left hip free, and primary semi-auto springfield scout squad on my right shoulder, expensive helmet mounted optic, and maybe smith some scale armor one day too? I definitely put swords even higher on the wishlist, after considering the last report from the jungle like haiti, rather than hiding in the closet or under the bed during murder and rape, gang raids or as hungry mountain lions or pumas that leave and come back when they learn to see humans as prey with hikers sometimes.
Felicidades maestro de maestros es un honor ver en éste video y más sería si estuviera ahí soy un aficionado a las artes marciales lástima que no pude llegar a manejar al 1000# porciento la muy famosísimo KATANA ,aver si algún día ande por esas tierras bay y saludos
What a unique and remarkable art of making a sword. It was like a blending of confectionery turned into a lethal weapon, above all it requires tremendous kind of patience and perfection. 剣の達人 吉原よしんど
Thank you for posting! Swordsmithing in Japan truly is a form of art! The Japanese people truly do value quality of work above all else! I have a tube stereo made in Japan in the 1960s and it truly is a wonderful piece of gear to have, much like these swords!
EXCELLENT doc, I'm curious as to how the ancient swordsmiths knew about the carbon loss at different steps in the forging If anyone has an answer please let me know, thanks!
They were originally blacksmiths who didn't just make swords, so if they were making a simple knife, chisel or file if they pounded/heated it more to get out more slag they got a softer end product more like the base iron coming out of the smelt furnace. They probably explained it by saying the spirit left the metal.
I always assumed that the patterns along a katana were the result of etching, but it is shown to be the result of these clay mixtures. This is proven when the katana is ground down and the pattern remains: etching would have been removed, thus the patterning goes into the blade, as opposed to simply marking the surface of it. I wonder if the different types of clay painted on are only tovariate heat that the katana absorbs during its final firing, or if there is more to it. The clays are different colors, but that could simply be so the swordmaker can tell the difference between the different layers of paint. I wonder how far down you can grind a katana and sill find the pattern. The tip of the katana...was it once originally the tip of the arm used to place the U and core ingot into the furnace?
I forge and let me beare witness. This is truly a work of art and true skill at the peak of perfection. I apploud his skill and hard-work as one of the ELITE FORGERS I'VE SEEN PRODUCE (in english) DAMASCUS KATANA
There’s a documentary “out there” that starts with the choosing of the sand and then being smelted by a master. Then to the sword making. Then to the polishing. Then to the making do the grip. Also Epic.
For anyone wondering, Yoshihara San is now 79 and still working his craft.
@Outbound Flight i'd like to order a little Salami Pizza with some ice cream and walnut topings, says the US secretary
@Jan Kröhl what the heck are you talking about
And there is one special "woke parasite nation", that has destroyed the two most advanced, most innovative and most fascinating pure peoples in mankinds history....
Guess which one and guess, which one is soon and finally going down into the abyss of time due to the satanic believe of It's Leaders?!
🗡
@Outbound Flight I am glad to read that.
Bizen Nagamitsu is famous for being owned by "Kojiro Sasaki" who was a rival of "Miyamoto Musashi", the strongest samurai in Japan.
Monohoshizao was the Nodachi that Kojiro supposedly used, no idea where you've got Bizen Nagamitsu. The name translates as 'The Laundry-Drying Pole'. I assume the implication being that he was about to take out the dirty laundry.
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I love how calming and silent this documentary is. Documentaries nowadays are like action movies with blockbuster background music and over usage of cuts.
@Satellite0926 I do not believe that for a second. It is not nearly as easy as this master swords smith with centuries of sword making history in his family made it look, but something that is earned through lifelong dedication and sacrifice. You can't just come in, watch a documentary and somehow expect to mimic this specialized craftsmanship, especially not on the same level of perfection. Furthermore, you need access to special Japanese steel, which is made only once a year in a very traditional and unique way. You can not come in and easily demand access to this highly regarded niche steel product and expect to get it. Lastly, the customers will for the most part (99%) try to acquire a Katana made by one of the handful master swordsmiths, that are part of a tradition and history that goes far back. That is one major aspect that makes these Katanas so appealing. It is not just a tool but a piece of art or even history and some would even argue something akin to a religious artifact. I don't believe that this will likely change in the near future, or ever, regardless of some westerners being able to copy this process or not. I mean, think about it, if you ever get the chance to acquire one of these marvelous pieces of history and tradition, do you want an original made in the line of true tradition and history, or something copied from outside, which has no part in this tradition nor history? I, for one, am dead set on the original.
@razorfett147 this is way too accurate that its sad
fitting for a japanese documentary
I keep rewatching this as it is so relaxing to watch
Yep. At some point in the last 20-30 yrs they started shooting and editing documentaries like music videos
This is honestly an honor to witness. Such skill and dedication that goes into making such a strong and powerful yet beautiful work of art is truly admirable.
The possibility of Slicing Two pigs at Once is there and it relies on the Weapon itself but "the handler" is also a key factor.
@Krayze There is that show that they cut pigs and even boars in half with similar sized swords. this is a katana dude, it will keeall
@Dionysis Διονύσης Definitely not. An odachi maybe if you swing hard enough, but katanas are too small and too light to bisect a man.
its a weapon meant to slice the enemy in half with a single swing
yeah agreed.. that was an honor to watch
I watch this at least once every month or two, along with other videos featuring Yoshindo san. He is not only an absolute master of his art, but a very warm and wonderful man as well. And very courageous to press on in teaching the next generation following the tragic death of his son, who was his heir apparent.
Oh man, that is so tragic... I'm really sorry for him. So unfortunate that the line of his family tradition is now broken, I mean it could very well go back for centuries, which is the case for many master craftsmen of his reputation/standing in Japan. But I'm glad that he keeps going and even trains the next generation. That is true tradition and something really worth doing.
@TheSutov l am not sure. I only know that he died tragically somehow. He was only in his 40s l believe.
Master supreme. I'll watch this again. What happened to his son?
I've seen plenty of documentaries that uses electron microscopes and laser scanning and all that to show the molecular structure of these swords, and that's really cool, but the simple demonstration using Playdough was probably the most effective one in showing why these swords are so special. What a great documentary
On the other hand, simple are better.
But the other hand, people do want to look something with more precise.
(Pardon my engrish)
You do realize that's all BS, right? The folding does nothing to make it stronger than typical steel, and it's not sharper either. The folding is because Japanese steel has high impurities and too high carbon.
The folding squishes out the already melted impurities that have a lower melting point than steel, and every time you expose the steel to air it loses carbon. European steel has always been superior.
Generations of information, technique, skill, craftsmanship, dedication and tradition ingrained into each sword. Truly Amazing. How can you not Love and Admire the Japanese people...
Formidável a técnica empregada no fabrico dessas espadas.
Que nunca se perca esse conhecimento ancestral, por respeito aos grandes mestres que dedicaram as suas vidas, a dar vida a essas espadas.
Um grande abraço e um muito obrigado por mostrar o seu belo trabalho. Daqui de Portugal envio um forte abraço com muito carinho, para essa cultura do Japão tão maravilhoso.
Imagine the thought and trial and error the founders of this method went through. Truly amazing.
We are missing a huge part of Human evolution due to a lack of written records..
@calholli I know that, and I was in no way implying otherwise.
@Mark Lyons The knowledge learned goes back centuries.. it's not like a guy just made a few in his garage and figured it out... There were breakthroughs all along the way and each generation building on the backs of their ancestors. Kinda like pron films.
My thoughts exactly! And what must have been meticulous note taking. And all without the modern metallurgist's knowledge of impurities, carbon content, whether or not to temper, etc.,etc. The Japanese of that time period were amazing craftsmen in many different fields. Check out some of their wood joinery techniques.
@Kye Willett and Now they flood our borders.. smh. They fell off
Just did some digging online. The swordsmith featured in this documentary is Yoshindo Yoshihara, and for all wondering, he is still alive and actively making masterpieces.
@YoYoJoe the price is quite warranted tho. He is considered the best living swordsmith and is by no exaggeration, a master
@F I'm very sorry to hear that. It's a tragedy that yet another great artist was taken from us-and especially from his family-too soon. I am, however, glad that the next generation is continuing the family tradition. Thanks for the update.
@YoYoJoe US$60,000 is definitely a large pricetag, but you get a one-of-a-kind piece made by a master of a technique that's been used for centuries. I feel it's worth it if you have the kind of money to afford it.
To add to you research, his son, bless his soul also forged katanas but passed away prematurely due to cancer, if I remember correctly. I believe his grandson will now continue the legacy
Yes....he was born in 1946......and still On the Job but he uses a few Aprentices to "create" those Masterpiece Swords at a WOOPING..$60,000 USD EA.
It was a pleasure to watch and appreciate the amount of work and skill that goes into the making of such beautiful art. Thank you.
He dedicated himself to the artistry and craftsmanship of sword making. Only it doesn’t seem like a sword at all. The amount of detail and time into building it made it feel like it came to life out of the flame of his forge. It’s beautiful and functional. I loved this it’s the documentary I didn’t know I needed. Once I began I couldn’t stop watching. Good video.
This is one of the most enjoyably cogent documentaries I've seen on katana making-free of a lot of annoying pseudo Japanese music, and dumb reenactments of samurais. Every step is explained with Japanese words and processes displayed. Thank you kindly!
@Johnny K that's why this documentary is so special ♥🙂. I f.ing hate Hollywood interference music 🎶 too 😐.
@orion khan yeah the other longer documentary made by the history channel is full of romanticized bullshit. they take the mythological almost weeb kind of stance for the Katana, whereas this documentary is just the facts.
Yes, I agree.
It’s an interesting documentary, but I wish they would’ve explained the creation of the hilt and scabbard as well, not just the blade.
yeah cringey music and last words at the end but very still very fascinating video just amazing
This doc not only shows the style of japanese swordsmith but also his patience, resilience, hard work and concentration his willing to put in his masterpiece following the time that goes in crafting one. Just facinating!!!
This was amazing ! I’m not sure I’d open up my workshop and demonstrate hundreds of years of “secret” sword making…but I’m glad this master sword smith did as a study in an integral part of feudal Japan.
Its pretty appropriate to identify it as the Japanese sword, given that there are many variations on the traditional Katana. Dai-Katana, Odachi, Wakizashi, even the tanken knife all have the same basic construction, but in different sizes, demanding different uses and techniques in combat. Just goes to show how deep of an art form this is.
A little-known fact about Japanese swords.
1. Japanese swords have been famous in Asia since the middle ages, and they were exported to China, Korea and distant Asian countries. Influenced by Japanese swords used by pirates in the medieval period, some swords in China and Korea came to resemble Japanese swords.
2. The forging method used by modern Japanese swordsmiths was developed in Japan in the 1500s. In the 1500s, the Bizen school of swordsmiths, the largest group of swordsmiths in Japanese swords, was destroyed by a great flood, and uniform steel began to circulate throughout Japan, so the accurate forging method of Japanese swords before that was not accurately inherited. Therefore, Japanese swords are divided into the Koto Period (Old sword period) before the 1500s and the Sintho Period (New sword period) after that.
3. Since the 1900s, Koreans came to Japan and learned how to make Japanese swords from Japanese swordsmiths. Using this technology, they started to make swords in Korea, and they claim that "We are restoring old Korean swords in a traditional way.". However, these technologies were developed in Japan in the 1500s and are forging technologies in the Sinto period (New sword period). In addition, most of the restored swords are similar to Japanese swords exported from Japan to Korea in the medieval period and not to Korean old swords.
@V
Old katana is most beautiful ,sharp and strong.
New katana (1500〜) can't compete.
It's because of material and method.
So japanese had treated old katana as family clan's treasure for long time until
GHQ banned.
Famous and legendary katana in japan is almost old.
Poor english from a japanese.sorry.
So which one was better? The old sword period or the new one?
It's an honor being able to watch such a great swordsmith at work, I have the utmost respect for him
I don’t know how many times I have watched this but I know it never gets old. I love how much care they put into everything they do. The swords are beautiful and in my eyes priceless.
Nijnin
J
A great Documentary ; thanks a lot for sharing this fantastic video about the Japanese sword, the soul of the Samurai. All the crafting of this work of art, this high level and unique creation, is very precise, extremely difficult and complex. All the process is full of beauty, strength and deep tradition. Thanks for those moments of pure pleasure.
One of my prized posessions is a Japanese short sword my friend brought back to America in 1945. He said there was a huge pile of swords being cut up to disarm the Japanese. He asked his CO if he could have one and picked one out. I traded pre 1933 U.S. gold coins for this priceless to me Wakazashi. After the signature was examined I was told my sword was made in 1661. I will treasure it to my dying day.
LMFAO Why? They're not better than European swords. Not by a long shot. The folding doesn't do anything to help them out.
You should try to find the family it belong and give it back to them its à spoil of war and it belong to their rightful owner probably they will buy it back from you at a fair price
That is truly amazing what an honor to own that sword I wouldn’t even know how to act lol
The blade of a true ancient Katana is rarely over 28 inches in length. So I don't believe your sword is "short".
Sure would like to see a pic of that beauty
Mad respect. A work of mastery and art. Generations in the making. Kudos.
Absolutely humbling, I have been I the metal industry all my life and never have I seen this level of intricate art , truly this is an art in itself ! 🙏🏼
Gotta give so much respect to these guys its truely amazing the amount of hard work and time to craft the sword its amazing to watch.
Fascinating how a weapon can be such a beautiful masterpiece, Japanese Swordsmiths are masters. Such a Katana is worth every penny
I love watching traditional japanese swordmaking. So soothing.
How about a video about the kiln steel making process? It's as beautiful an art as the forging of the blade.
My respect for Japanese history, traditions and culture
Absolutely amazing and no words can explain the application I have for such love and compassion for the craftsmanship I so greatly and deeply love his since of pride in his work I’m that way but never to be as skilled as this man is in his work. But all in all I always take lots of pride in everything I do always doing everything as if I’m doing it for my creator.
The Japanese, their culture, the amazingly meticulous way they do things. It makes me smile. In a time where it seems that everything is done halfway or with corners cut, they do things The right way.. this video is proof of the professionalism and hard work they put in with everything they do.
LMFAO Bro you do realize the folding only serves to squeeze out the melted impurities that have a lower melting point than steel, right? It amazes me how much these people are able to manipulate you in to believing they are better than European swords
@Texas flood There are very few comments that I agree with more.
@Sir Scrotus no thanks bud. Sounds like your own personal preference!
@Sir Scrotus nah, politicians flooding the country with unskilled labor and highly skilled artisans don't work for $5/hr. Id sit at home before I would work for peanuts . America didn't have that problem until the immigration act of 1965.
@Texas flood hell yeah 🤘
The intricacy and delicate craftsmanship of these swordsmakers are breathtaking that's why the Samurai has its respect around the world!
Espada japonesa é uma obra de arte!!!!!
A HUGE RESPECT in Japanese culture and especially to the MASTER and MAN who is able to create such a fantastic masterpiece.
(an admirer from Hungary)
Absolutely stunning! So much thought process gone into making a perfect Sword! Heat treatment done on the sword did took sometime to digest the fact that no oil quenching is performed. Still This sword is perhaps best tensile strength with no Brittleness and also bit of flex in the blade.Does defies the law of heat treatment,Master in his best form.One of the worlds best war combat weapon. "SAMURAI"
It always incredible how Japanese put passion in their work, it never fail to amaze me
As a person that studied the Japanese language... I must rewatch this and learn all the parts of the Katana, process names, tools, and everything, and learn how to write it down.
Found this after watching a documentary on Damascus steel blades and I just have to say how awesome the overall history of sword making techniques from different cultures is to see.
I've always been interested in Japanese sword smithing amazing patients, skilled experience, and a beautifully finished sword only the Japanese have figured out how to blend a soft core with a hard outer shell making for a sword that can absorb impact without breaking truly the most beautiful swords in world history I am humbled, aragoto.....
This was VERY enjoyable to watch.... An amazing craftsman at work.... A true Master of his trade. I feel humbled to have seen his work.
As a Westerner I am honoured to have been able to see this piece of Nippon history. It is a part of their soul that conquered the world with its beauty!✌️🙏
Amazing craftsman. Beautiful weapon... a lot of patience and skill required! I know modern steel and technique would produce a stronger weapon but this is just art!
He is an extremely talented swordsmith. I would love to have a katana sword that was made by this man.
Imagine his level of reverence honoring those before him. I can’t help but think it’s harbored throughout the sword making.
The fire starting tradition this master sword maker begins for his work is definitely very cool to watch... The samurai sword has to be one of the greatest weapons ever created.
It's the first time that I can see an amazing Japanese swordsmith in a very detailed way. Thank you!
Very calming and informative documentary. It really shows the art and ideology behind this fine craft!
Absolutely incredible to see his mastery of the hammer, being capable of creating a long even flat straight line, tapered into blade. No machining, no forge press. I couldn't even draw that with a ruler.
I have never seen the lighting of the forge before. That's really incredible. The heat that forges the steel is pulled back out of the steel itself.
This is a live version of the book "The craft of the Japanese Sword". I fawned over that book in my late teens during the late 90's. Thank you for the upload.
Im always just amazed that these smiths are able to hammer out a perfectly proportioned and symmetrical blade by beating a length of heated steel with a hammer. To do something like that with nothing but eyeball judgement is just amazing
The hammering is a big portion of it but they also file down the blade to make it perfect
I loved this documentary. It gave a sense of artistry, dignity and sense of beauty from crafting a katana without glorifying the sword itself. It is rare to see documentaries about the Samurai Sword that don't say its the best sword of all time.
A master artist and Craftsman something so beautiful, yet so deadly! Form and Function to its perfection. Thank you it was an honor to watch you create this beautiful weapon.
I have an enormous respect for the art. When I was a lowly apprentice in the culinary arts to become a Chef, I had the honor to learn under a renowned Japanese Chef, Sukie.
When I graduated Sukie had a set knives made for me. Sukie's Family have been making Samurai swords for 9 generations. The best set of knives ever.
Chef Ken
That is incredible. Their dedication to a discipline is second to none.
I dedicated over 4 decades of training in the Aiki arts and at times
directly under a Shihan from Japan. The concept of Shugyo is not easily understood nor earned.
Yuül
Thank you for sharing that. One of the best comments I've ever read.
Absolutely fascinating and damn near breathtaking I wonder how many generations of sword makers leads him to present day?👍
This is so cool, what a magnificent culture Japan has, I particularly love the way he fired his forge, no grinders, no drills, no modern tools at all, that’s cheating.
most modern japanese sword smiths use power hammers becuase it is hard to get apprentices that will help you hammer
I have been watching documentaries for over 40 years, and this program rates very high. I offer my thanks to the professionals who shared the mysteries of their craft, and to the people who wrote, produced, and presented this program.
Well done.
Trabalho maravilhoso ..Parabéns ..
I'm not Japanese and I do not know the history of Samurai in detail, but I will one day own a Katana to support this amazing art and to own a treasure that will last for centuries.
I wouldn't call it a treasure. I mean, it's a work of art, but it's not really any different then any other weapon that has the same time put into it. /shrug
I love learning about feudal Japan, The samurai the wars the war lords and all that is fascinating about ancient Japan👍🏻
Deep culture , great art , precious heritage...💚👍🏻
This is amazing. In this day and age i find real appreciation for something that is made with true craftsmanship and respect for the ability of the craftsman. Something that is truly handmade
@Frank Moser guns are for americans the home of the fat
Bradley b sorry to see you so butthurt over a simple observation lol ANYHOW apparently i have dishonored the thread here so I'll just go kill myself lmao fuckin morons lol
@Frank Moser gun???? Everyone talking about sword not gun...trash talker
@StudyinSteel, the nature of metal is better today, true. However the mixing of harder and softer steels together is a difficult art which very few will ever achieve, at least to the level of the sword builder. What I found most interesting is the hand shaping techniques, after the forging was completed. It's also how I have shaped knives in the past.
There's plenty of things in this would that aren't completely hand made but still take a lot of skill to make. I think these smiths are more doing the important job of reminding people how things were done in the past. You can get better steel now because we have resources and methods that didn't exist back then, but these are "proven" techniques that were to get the best out of some bad iron.
This is a real art of katana its been made by hardwork. Besides in cutting a long bar or flat steel, sanding, finishing sharpened. Without forging. I really appreciate this sword maker.
It's always a pleasure to watch craftsmen at work. Excellent documentary.
What I would give to have that very sword !! It's hard to imagine the evolution of this process....what a craft !!
For the whole duration of the film I thought I was back in those times, the simplicity, elegance yet complexity of the Japanese way. Watching this actually calmed me down. I even had to make myself some green tea to get in tune with the vibe.haha excellent documentary. thank you.
Wonderful video that shows how the craft of sword making has survived the passage of time even when few follow the time-tested methods of the masters. One thing I noticed in the forging process was that this Master Swordsmith kept his hammer wet, something I've never seen in any other blade making video; I wish they had explained why do it that way... nonetheless he produced a real work of art.
Damn, I love Katanas, the crafting method, the tradition, the special steel, just... Everything about it, just great
wow learning alot here ty so much. ive always wondered how they made such great swords. some of the swords i hv seen in movies and stuff are beautiful, now i know how they were made from scratch. ty to all the hardworking swords makers who make this possible. the swords are so beautiful. awesome work . to create a sword as beautiful as this is breathtaking. ty for showing us
Yoshindo is an uncomprehendable level of amazing, if I ever wanted a Katana (Which of course I do), I'd want it to be made by him and his disciples.
His skills are remarkable, I truly hope he passed it on to his disciples and craft such us this one is never lost 🙂
I just google translated the Japanese word "Jihada " to English, " Skin " is what Google says, What I really think it means is " Soul," or " Spirit " or even "Character." Almost like the" Essence of a Rune." It is an honor to be able to watch this rare treat of a Master Swordsmith and his skills in action. The doubling effect with every fold is like sacred geometry with metals. The golden ratio of carbon.
Thanks for making this video. Always wondered how the katanas were constructed. Now I have a better understanding.
Imagine the process of discovery. The science is so complicated and precise, but these guys pulled it off without an ounce of electricity! Absolutely outstanding!
They literally start with sand and pine trees. Stunning.
Awesome. Thanks for sharing. I'm happy to see this process and have clarity towards understanding the folding and carbon imbued steel making process.
Beautiful art, amazing the skill and passion involved.
Beautiful, but I was amazed when I discovered that laminating/pattern welding dates to the first millennium BC in Europe, with Celtic, and later Germanic swords exhibiting the technique.
Mind and spirit at work. I love the deep attention to details and perfection as required by the swordsmith. Love it.
Love the samurai way of life and honor. Would love to have the honor of having one of his swords!
Always been fascinated with Nihonto making, when I was a kid I made my own out of a vw spring, I still have it and it's still quite sharp for a dangerous toy a kid shouldn't be playing with, 😆
Possibly the most informative, no Bullshit, down to earth documentary about Nihonto on the internet.
Too bad I would've liked to see also the polishing and the koshirae making process in more depth, but still this was amazing.
Yoshihara sensei is truly a living treasure for Japan that makes me proud of being half japanese :)
@Jona Jo Yes, the site of kanna nagashi was used by farmers as rice terraces. Many rice terraces remain in Japan. Japanese iron sand contains vanadium.
Vanadium combines with the carbon in the steel to strengthen the steel. The effect of vanadium makes katana excellent in hardness, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, and toughness, and it becomes beautiful when sharpened. Iron ore does not contain vanadium.
According to a survey of vanadium detected in ironware at Japanese archaeological sites, It seems that Japan changed the material of iron making from iron ore to iron sand from around the 3rd century. In ancient Japan, impurity slag was called noro, and impurity discharge work was called noro dashi.
Even if I search for the words noro and noro dashi, there is no explanation and it seems that they are not well known. Since tamahagane emits slag, there are few impurities.
@T N Thanks for dispelling this misconception. Just to add on, iron sand was often refined through a process known as *kanna nagashi* , where a system involving flowing water and slopes were used to essentially pan out iron from the sand. This can contrate contents of sands that range 2% or 5%, and bring that number up to 80%. Not to mention that they were capable of producing cast iron which can be decarburized into usable steel.
@Andrew Furusawa Sand iron, which is the material of katana, is a good quality material with less phosphorus and sulfur. Phosphorus and sulfur are impurities that make steel brittle.
In Japan, impurities were removed by the Tatara iron-making method, which was created from the 5th century. The Tatara ironmaking method uses the difference in melting temperatures of iron, phosphorus, and sulfur to remove impurities. Old craftsmen called the impurities Noro. The ingredients of tamahagane are carbon 1.36% silicon 0.03% manganese 0.01% phosphorus 0.029% sulfur 0.0026% copper 0.01%. The content of impurities such as phosphorus and sulfur in tamahagane is much lower than in modern steel. By removing unnecessary carbon by smithing, the carbon content is reduced to around 0.7%, which is suitable for katana and is not too hard. And the steel of katana is in a state where microstructures with different hardness, austenite and martensite, are dispersed.
When katana is sharpened with a sharpening stone, austenite is easy to scrape and martensite remains, so it becomes like a "micro saw".
The person who handles katana pulls katana at the moment of slashing.
Today, in Japan, a special steel called Yasugi Specialty Steel is made from the method of making katana materials. This special steel has the same properties as katana, and since it is hard and elastic, it is used for various purposes.
This special steel is high-speed tool steel, cutting tool steel, cutlery steel, electronics materials, high-grade kitchen knife materials, razor materials, automotive parts materials, automotive engine parts, aircraft engine parts, cutter for artificial satellite separations, etc. It is used for various purposes.
Monsterhunter Nathan ultimate lol dry
Aawww, Didn't the cool comicbook super-sword actually exist in the real world? Poor you?
Given the time-consuming and laborious process of making a katana, it comes as no surprise why they value the things.
This is what I love about Japan - focus on what you are creating, be patients & dexterous, and true works of art will emerge - no matter whether it is swords, kimonos, food, gardens etc.
I admire the work ethics of the japanese people..They are so hardworking and quality oriented.
Damascus steel, named for Damascus Spain where it was an art form but also made in many other places such as Greece, is also a combination of hard and soft metals. It also is stronger than the uniform steel which was common worldwide. Not every swordsmith, whether in Japan or elsewhere could make combination steels like this.
The Japanese swordsmiths are known for their skill, and rightly so, but they were not the only people who could make superior steel and blades.
For some reason I have been addicted to watching sword making videos lately. I think it's the idea of creating a one of a kind tool using metal to create a unique work of art. Making a katana looks to be very work intensive, complex, and requires a lot of skill and expertise but the end product is totally worth all the hard work that went into it.
Emiliano Lorenzi not only arabs. It was used by Afghans, Persians and Indians. Intact wootz originates from India
I have always had a fascination with blacksmithing, and wanted to do it for a while.
Thus video kind of renews that desire...
Remember you'll absolutely need a good solid anvil device to get good work done.
Look on Nova website. They just aired aprogram called secrets of the shining knights about armour smithing. Same smith who did the ulfberht sword
Just a quick question, but how long do you think it took to make a modern tank or michine gun. Black powder weapons have been in use for over 800 years, and Leonardo da Vinci designed a tank before he died in the 16th century. Four hundred years to the first tanks used in mass in any war. A couple hundred years to create something iconic to a culture is fairly common.
jhhwild I agree
Just so that you know that these custom works of art for a real traditional Japanese sword would have run you into the six figures or more.
With that said this sword making art is a dying art of tradition and not at all an easy task to learning let me reassure you, the whole reason why I have said that about it being a dying art of tradition and why it's a truly dying art is because it's a very super difficult craftsmanship to learn and to pass down to one generation to the next and with that also said, It can take you almost a whole lifetime to learning this art in sword craftsmanship.
Take it from me it is not at all an easy task to learning. Because I have tried it and I don't have what it takes to doing this their ways of tradition. It's one thing to forge anything else but as far as it comes to doing this is nearly impossible to learn especially learning how to know the exact temperatures to move the sword at and at what speed and so on as they said in the video. However But I must say that I do have very much and true respect for their craftsmanship and their work and honor and traditions. I have blacksmith skills too but doing something like this is insane hard work and dedication and devotion to this craft.
As a collector, I've seen a number of these documentaries, and the play dough explanation is the best ever!
My grandfather once told me: The most dangerous weapons of the Japanese army were their discipline ,honor and patience.
@l L oh
@Mid-Knight they feared death, but they feared the humiliation of coming home not fighting to the death more
Remember in japan attacking enemy with out prior knowledge was considered cowardice. Thats just what they did at pearl. Yes i am old guy that does not forget. The sword was beautiful my hat off to this craftsman.
@Farin Japan back then: honorable soldiers who doesn’t fear death
@Mid-Knight at least their history wasn't like that
Amazing sword documentary, as the third cave lionen after musashi and pharoah kafre, it'll be great when I can get some money saved up to get some japanese swords.
As with playing basketball and thowing with my left hand, I'll of course be carrying my swords on my right side probably, as with taking cover with my left hip free, and primary semi-auto springfield scout squad on my right shoulder, expensive helmet mounted optic, and maybe smith some scale armor one day too?
I definitely put swords even higher on the wishlist, after considering the last report from the jungle like haiti, rather than hiding in the closet or under the bed during murder and rape, gang raids or as hungry mountain lions or pumas that leave and come back when they learn to see humans as prey with hikers sometimes.
The process of forging the sword sounds as beautiful as the final sword looks
Felicidades maestro de maestros es un honor ver en éste video y más sería si estuviera ahí soy un aficionado a las artes marciales lástima que no pude llegar a manejar al 1000# porciento la muy famosísimo KATANA ,aver si algún día ande por esas tierras bay y saludos
Im not a traditionalist BUT this process is both mystical & wonderful. Incredible artisans.
What a unique and remarkable art of making a sword. It was like a blending of confectionery turned into a lethal weapon, above all it requires tremendous kind of patience and perfection.
剣の達人
吉原よしんど
Thank you for posting! Swordsmithing in Japan truly is a form of art! The Japanese people truly do value quality of work above all else! I have a tube stereo made in Japan in the 1960s and it truly is a wonderful piece of gear to have, much like these swords!
EXCELLENT doc, I'm curious as to how the ancient swordsmiths knew about the carbon loss at different steps in the forging If anyone has an answer please let me know, thanks!
They were originally blacksmiths who didn't just make swords, so if they were making a simple knife, chisel or file if they pounded/heated it more to get out more slag they got a softer end product more like the base iron coming out of the smelt furnace. They probably explained it by saying the spirit left the metal.
I always assumed that the patterns along a katana were the result of etching, but it is shown to be the result of these clay mixtures. This is proven when the katana is ground down and the pattern remains: etching would have been removed, thus the patterning goes into the blade, as opposed to simply marking the surface of it. I wonder if the different types of clay painted on are only tovariate heat that the katana absorbs during its final firing, or if there is more to it. The clays are different colors, but that could simply be so the swordmaker can tell the difference between the different layers of paint. I wonder how far down you can grind a katana and sill find the pattern.
The tip of the katana...was it once originally the tip of the arm used to place the U and core ingot into the furnace?
I forge and let me beare witness. This is truly a work of art and true skill at the peak of perfection. I apploud his skill and hard-work as one of the ELITE FORGERS I'VE SEEN PRODUCE (in english) DAMASCUS KATANA
Such a blessing to have witnessed true craftsmanship. Thank you for sharing this great video
It makes me want one for home decorations. Such a beautiful art
There’s a documentary “out there” that starts with the choosing of the sand and then being smelted by a master. Then to the sword making. Then to the polishing. Then to the making do the grip. Also Epic.
This incredible craftman is still doing katanas being 77 years old. Price starting at almost $50000. Worth every penny
Kind of shows you the things we've lost nowadays. Nice to see some people preserving traditions like this.