Part of the MoonSwords Steel Guide series. See the full matrix to compare every steel we forge.
Quick answer: T8 is a carbon tool steel with about 0.8% carbon. Clay-tempered, it typically reaches 56–60 HRC at the edge. It holds a slightly less durable edge than T10 but is a touch more resilient, and it is the most affordable way to own a hand-forged, clay-tempered blade with a true hamon. MoonSwords forges 12 swords in T8, from $219 to $349.
Where T8 Fits
T8 and T10 come from the same carbon tool-steel family; the number tracks carbon content. With roughly 0.2% less carbon than T10, T8 forms fewer hard carbides. That means a little less edge retention, but a slightly more forgiving blade overall. Clay tempering gives T8 the same two-zone structure as our other clay-tempered steels: a hard edge, a softer spine and a genuine hamon where they meet.
T8 at a Glance
- Typical edge hardness: 56–60 HRC
- Toughness: medium-high
- Edge retention: good
- Hamon: true clay-tempered hamon
- Rust care: high. Treat it like any high-carbon blade.
T8 vs T10
Choose T10 if edge retention is your priority and your budget stretches to it. Choose T8 if you want an authentic clay-tempered blade at the lowest price we offer, or a first sword to learn proper care on before moving up.
MoonSwords T8 Swords
- From $219: Tenshōryū, Ryūgari, Konton and Kingiku.
- $229–$295: Mizukagami, Ichō, Akitsu, Ryōsetsu, Tenbu Hōō and Koku-en.
- Wakizashi: Shiraki ($229) and Kokuryū ($349).
See them all in the T8 collection, or browse our best katanas under $300.
Caring for T8
Wipe the blade after handling, oil it lightly every few weeks, and store it out of damp air. Our high-carbon care guide walks through the routine.
FAQ
Is T8 a good steel for a first katana?
Yes. It gives you a genuine clay-tempered hamon and hand-forged, full-tang construction at our lowest clay-tempered prices.
Are your HRC figures measured?
The 56–60 range is typical for clay-tempered T8. Where a product page lists a figure, that figure applies to that sword.