Fine Japanese swords must fulfill three absolute conditions:
They must never break. While flexible, they must never stay bent.
And they must always cut perfectly. The skill and knowledge of the
traditional swordsmith live on in Panasonic.
FORGIN
To enhance both strength and sharpness, the swordsmith forges steel
to craft the blade.
Hammering and shaping the steel while it is red-hot brings out these and other beneficial qualities,
such as flexibility.
Today, this process remains of crucial importance in producing blades of the finest quality.
TEMPERING
Subjecting the steel to high temperatures increases its hardness
and durability.
Both the temperature and timing of the process must be perfect in order to achieve the perfect blade.
Only through many years of experience can one develop the intuition necessary for this craft.
GRINDING
Special grinding techniques perfected through countless hours of practice
help the swordsmith produce a blade both sharp and beautiful.
The level of precision required is extremely high. One mistake, and the amazing cutting performance and
distinctive look of a katana will be marred beyond repair.
INSPECTION
The swordsmiths of old would never allow anything but perfection to leave
the workshop.
Their experienced eyes caught even the tiniest flaw in a blade.
They may not have used the words “quality control,” but they helped establish a tradition of outstanding
quality for which Japan has become famous.
