Part of the MoonSwords Steel Guide series. See the full matrix to compare every steel we forge.
Quick answer: 1095 is a plain high-carbon steel (about 0.95% carbon with almost nothing else added). Clay-tempered, it typically reaches 58–61 HRC at the edge. Its simple recipe makes it forgiving to heat-treat and gives it a famously clean, classic hamon. MoonSwords forges 15 swords in 1095, from $309 to $799, in our mid-range and high-end tiers.
Why 1095 Is a Classic
In the American SAE numbering system, "10" marks a plain carbon steel and "95" its carbon content in hundredths of a percent. That simplicity is the point. With few alloying elements to manage, a skilled smith can heat-treat 1095 consistently, and the carbon content is high enough for a hard edge while clay tempering keeps the spine resilient. Its hamon tends to be bright and well defined, which is why 1095 is a favorite with collectors who want the temper line to be the star of the blade.
1095 at a Glance
- Typical edge hardness: 58–61 HRC
- Toughness: medium, offset by the softer clay-tempered spine
- Edge retention: high (T10's tungsten gives it a slight edge here)
- Hamon: true clay-tempered hamon, crisp and clear
- Rust care: high. High-carbon steel with no chromium needs regular oiling.
1095 vs T10
Both are clay-tempered, high-carbon steels with a true hamon. T10 holds its edge a little longer thanks to its tungsten addition. 1095 is more forgiving to heat-treat and is prized for the clarity of its hamon. Our 1095 vs T10 deep-dive covers the details.
MoonSwords 1095 Swords
- Mid-range katana: Harugasumi ($309), Hi no Ko, Ryūki, Tenma and Karyūzan.
- High-end katana: Mōko ($799), Karyū and Shuren.
- Tachi: the Fūrin Kazan, a true tachi in edge-down mounts.
- Tanto: Yukimi-ume and Tengyaku.
See the full lineup in the 1095 collection.
Caring for 1095
Wipe the blade after each handling, keep a thin coat of oil on it, and store it away from humidity. Our high-carbon blade care guide and rust removal guide cover the details.
FAQ
Is 1095 good steel for a katana?
Yes. Clay-tempered 1095 pairs a hard edge with a resilient spine and one of the clearest hamon of any steel we use.
Why don't you offer 1095 at entry level?
Our entry tier is built around T8, T10 and our accessible steels. 1095 starts in our mid-range tier.
Are your HRC figures measured?
The 58–61 range is typical for clay-tempered 1095. Where a product page lists a figure, that figure applies to that sword.