TLDW #20 - Futokorogatana Kaiken Tanto

**WARNING: This is the longer process version intended for serious students of knifemaking. Futokorogatana (懐刀) is translated as “clothing fold sword” and describes a type of tanto mounting meant to be carried in the kimono sleeve or fold. Also known as kaiken, this humble style of hidden mounting is usually unadorned with a smooth profile and lacquer finish. This knife would historically be carried for last chance survival situations.

The steel comes from a reclaimed horse-drawn carriage spring, the wood is hounoki (Japanese Magnolia), and the finish is natural urushi lacquer with ground crimson lake stone pigment.

more photos and info: http://islandblacksmith.ca/2017/08/process-making-a-futokorogatana/