On the following pages I would like to show you, how you can build a Japanese style dagger with relatively simple methods and tools.

The pictured Tanto was not forged but cut from a steel blank. It was hardened in a - more or less - traditional manner - with simple tools and materials available in every building center in Germany.

Blade material is CK75 / 1075 - an unalloyed steel with 0.75% carbon content. Unforunately it is very difficult to receive this flat-bar steel thicker than 4mm.

Thanks to all members of the Messerforum (www.messerforum.net) and the Swordforum (www.swordforum.com), who gave me useful tipps and information.