In the world of swords, few weapons possess the mystique and allure of the katana. Revered for its unparalleled craftsmanship, razor-sharp edge, and elegant design, the katana holds a special place in both history and pop culture. Among the many aspects that enthusiasts and novices alike ponder about this iconic weapon is its weight. How heavy is a katana really? Let’s delve into this question and separate fact from fiction. Myth: The Katana is a Heavy Weapon One common misconception surrounding the katana is that it is a heavy and cumbersome weapon. This belief may stem from depictions in mo ..read more

A famous samurai expert in katana (shinken) swordfighting, Miyamoto Musashi is one of Japan’s most important Kenshi (grand masters of ken-jutsu), whose exploits have inspired numerous stories. He is the archetypal medieval Japanese hero. Born in 1584 in Harima province, he was the second son of Munisai Shinmen, himself a katana expert, who orphaned him at the age of 7 (killed in a duel). Raised by his uncle in a monastery, Musashi took advantage of this forced stay to train with the katana, winning his first duel at the age of 13 against Arima Yoshibe. At 17, he fought under Toyotomi Hideyoshi ..read more

In traditional Japanese sword making, the kashira is a part of the katana located at the end of the hilt (tsuka), opposite the tsuba (guard). The kashira is a decorative metal accessory that fixes the handle (tsukamaki) and counterbalances the blade. Making Kashira : The kashira is usually made of copper, brass or iron and can be simple or very decorative, depending on the style of the sword and the preferences of its owner. It can be decorated with various patterns, such as dragons, flowers or other traditional Japanese designs. Usefulness of Kashira : While the kashira has primarily a d ..read more

The sageo of a katana is a cord that is used to secure the sword to the scabbard (saya) and to carry or hang it from the waist. The sageo is usually made of a strong, durable material, such as silk or cotton, and is often decorated with intricate patterns or colors that reflect the wearer’s personal style or clan affiliation. The sageo is attached to the saya by passing one end through a small loop (kurikata) at the top of the scabbard, then wrapping it around the saya and tsuka (handle) in a specific pattern. The other end of the sageo is then tied or wrapped around the belt (obi) to hol ..read more

In traditional Japanese sword making, the kurigata is a part of the katana (tsuka) handle that is used to attach the saya (scabbard) of the sword. The kurigata is usually a small oval-shaped button or ring, made of wood or horn, attached to the end of the saya. It is usually located near the mouth of the saya and is used to tie a cord or tassel (sageo) around the saya to secure it to the wearer’s belt. The kurigata has several functions in addition to securing the saya. It also protects the saya from damage and wear, while providing a decorative element to the sword. The kurigata can be s ..read more

The mekugi is a small peg made of bamboo or wood that is used to attach the sword blade to the hilt (tsuka). The mekugi is inserted into a hole in the tang of the blade and into the corresponding hole in the hilt, where it is secured by a metal pin (mekugi ana). What is the purpose of the Mekugi? The mekugi serves several important functions in the construction and use of a katana. It holds the blade firmly in place in the hilt, preventing it from slipping or moving during use. It also allows for easy disassembly of the sword for maintenance or repair, as the mekugi can be removed to sepa ..read more

The menuki is a decorative element placed on the handle (tsuka) of a katana or other Japanese sword. The menuki is usually a small ornament carved out of metal, wood or other materials such as ivory or bone. It is inserted into the hilt and is visible on the sides of the tsuka, just below the sheath (tsukamaki). Menuki function: The menuki has a primarily decorative function, adding an aesthetic element to the sword and enhancing its overall beauty. It can be designed in a wide variety of shapes and styles, such as dragons, flowers or other traditional Japanese motifs. Some menuki are even des ..read more

The nakago of a katana is the tang, the part of the blade that extends into the hilt. It is an integral part of the sword and plays an important role in determining its strength, balance and durability. Here are some essential aspects of nakago: The shape : The shape of the nakago can vary depending on the era and style of the katana, but it is usually rectangular or slightly tapered. The nakago also has a notch (mekugi-ana) near the end that allows it to be attached to the handle with a bamboo dowel (mekugi). Signature and registration : The nakago often bears the signature (mei) of the sword ..read more

The mune is the back or spine of the blade of a katana or other Japanese sword. It runs along the centerline of the blade, opposite the cutting edge (ha), and is usually thicker and wider than the ha. Mune function: The mune serves several important functions in the construction and use of a katana. It contributes to the balance and stability of the sword, as well as to the absorption of shocks and vibrations during use. The thickness and shape of the mune can also affect the sword’s handling characteristics, such as its weight and balance point. Symbolism of the Mune : The mune can also ..read more

The nagasa of a katana refers to the length of the blade, measured from the tip of the blade (kissaki) to the notch at the base of the blade (habaki). The length of the nagasa can vary depending on the era and the specific design of the katana, but it is generally between 60 and 73 centimeters (about 23 to 28 inches). The length of the nagasa is an important factor in determining the size and weight of the katana, as well as its balance and handling. A longer nagasa can make the blade heavier and slower to maneuver, but it can also give the sword greater reach and cutting power. Conversel ..read more