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The array of different Japanese blades can be a bit overwhelming, particularly if you are new to martial arts or if your looking for a display piece as a gift.
So at SamuraiBlades.com, we've taken the guesswork out of it by compiling this Japanese blade guide which we hope you find useful.
Blades examples courtesty of Cheness swords.
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Regular Katana Blade
Katana blades are typically 27" to 30" in length with a regular length handle. Used in Iaido practice, the Katana blade is the longest length that also allows the blade to be drawn from the waist quickly. |
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Iatio Katana Blade
The Iaito Katana blade are the same as a regular Katana blade with the distinction that the cutting edge of the blade as been blunted to allow for form practice in martial arts such as Iaido and Kendo. |
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Ko-Katana Blade
Ko-Katana blades feature a shorter blade than a regular Katana but they still have a regular handle length. The shorter blade makes it perfect for use in tight quarters and allows faster drawing. Very popular in Karate dojo's. |
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O-Katana Blade
The "O" stands for "Large", which means an O-Katana blade are longer than a regular Katana blade. Drawing the O-Katana blade normally requires twisting at the waist or pulling the scabbard. |
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Wakizashi Blade
Wakizashi blades range from 17" to 23" in length which made them popular as a secondary weapon with Samurai. The shorter handle meant they could be used single handed. |
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Shirasaya
The Shirasaya is raw wooden blade holder intended for long term storage of a blade of any length, for transport or display. The raw wood is very porous which allows the blade to breath, however the wood is very susceptible to dirt and contaminants. |
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