Part of the MoonSwords Steel Guide series. See the full matrix to compare every steel we forge.
Quick answer: T10 is a high-carbon tool steel (about 1.0% carbon with a small tungsten addition). Clay-tempered, it typically reaches 58–62 HRC at the edge while the spine stays softer and more resilient. It is the steel MoonSwords uses most, with 28 swords from $229 to $689 plus a bare blade, and the only steel we offer at every tier.
What Makes T10 Different
T10 belongs to China's carbon tool-steel family, where the number reflects carbon content: T10 is roughly 1.0% carbon and T8 roughly 0.8%. The small tungsten addition encourages fine carbides that help the edge resist wear, so T10 holds its keenness longer than plain carbon steel at similar hardness. The trade-off is that T10 rewards precise heat treatment. A careful smith gets a hard, durable edge; a careless one gets a brittle blade. That's why every T10 sword we make is clay-tempered by hand.
T10 at a Glance
- Typical edge hardness: 58–62 HRC (the Dokuryū lists 60–62 HRC on its product page)
- Toughness: medium, offset by the softer clay-tempered spine
- Edge retention: very high
- Hamon: a true clay-tempered hamon, typically crisp and active
- Rust care: high. Wipe after handling and oil regularly.
T10 vs 1095 vs T8
All three are clay-tempered in our lineup. T10 offers the best edge retention of the three. 1095 is the simpler high-carbon recipe, slightly more forgiving to heat-treat and known for a clean, classic hamon. T8 carries less carbon than T10, so it gives up a little edge retention for extra resilience and a lower price. For the head-to-head, read 1095 vs T10.
MoonSwords T10 Swords by Tier
- Entry-level: Makai ($229), our most accessible clay-tempered T10 katana, and the Sōryū and Hayabusa wakizashi ($289).
- Mid-range: Tsuki no Usagi, Kyūbi, Byakko and Suiha, plus the Byakuga tanto.
- High-end: Dokuryū, Chi no Bara, Kyōyū and Gaifū ($689).
- Custom builds: the T10 bare blade ($200), clay-tempered and ready for your own fittings.
Browse every model in the T10 collection.
Caring for T10
T10 is not stainless. Wipe fingerprints off after each handling, keep a thin coat of oil on the blade, and store it out of damp air. Our high-carbon blade care guide covers the routine step by step.
FAQ
Is T10 good for a katana?
Yes. Clay-tempered T10 combines a hard edge, a resilient spine and a visible hamon, which is why it anchors our lineup.
Is T10 better than 1095?
T10 holds an edge longer; 1095 is simpler to heat-treat and many collectors prefer its classic hamon. Both are excellent clay-tempered steels.
Are your HRC figures measured?
The 58–62 range is typical for clay-tempered T10. Where a product page lists a figure, that figure applies to that sword.