Oroshigane Blade

What is an Oroshigane Blade?

Oroshigane (卸し金) is a type of hand-smelted steel created by swordsmiths through traditional refining methods. Just like Tamahagane (玉鋼), it is produced with charcoal and high heat, then repeatedly folded and forged to adjust the carbon content and remove impurities. This process results in a heterogeneous steel with natural variation, capable of showing beautiful hada (grain patterns) and supporting a clay-tempered hamon.

Oroshigane shares the same spirit and qualities as Tamahagane, and both belong to the traditional Japanese swordmaking craft. In Japan, it is often used as a substitute or supplement for Tamahagane—especially by modern smiths who, when lacking genuine Tamahagane, refine their own Oroshigane to pursue traditional methods or to experiment with specific carbon contents. In countries or regions outside Japan, this steel is usually referred to as Oroshigane. Both are renowned for their purity and unique forging characteristics, forming an essential foundation of traditional Japanese sword production.