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Product description
The Kamakura period (1185–1333) marked a decisive turning point in Japanese history. The first military government (Shogunat) was established in 1192 by Minamoto no Yoritomo, giving this era its name from the city of Kamakura (about 50 km southwest of Tokyo). On the battlefield, warriors carried the tachi alongside armor (yoroi) and combat knives (tanto). Unlike the richly decorated tachis of later periods, which served a ceremonial function, the Kamakura tachi is recognizable by its simple, unadorned look.
This tachi measures 109 cm overall, with a 76 cm blade and a 32.5 cm grip (tsuka), and weighs 1,240 g. The blade is hand-forged from 1045 carbon steel in the Shinogi-Zukuri style without a fuller, and comes sharp. Black silk wraps the grip in the classic Hineri-Maki style over a lining of genuine shagreen. A black lacquered wooden scabbard (saya) and a leather baldric with high-quality two-colored cotton complete the set. The tachi ships in a striking collector's box.
John Lee's models draw inspiration from historical originals and are built to high-quality standards. No plastics are used — only authentic materials like metal, brass, wood, and shagreen. Every John Lee weapon includes a seal and a certificate of authenticity.
