During peacetime, the Nodachi was worn on the back as a status symbol, unlike most Japanese swords, that were worn on the belt. All custom swords are hand forged, so you can expect them to be fully functional and affordable, depending on their components. Koiguchi: This is the hole in which the blade of the sword is inserted into the saya. Even when the enemy parries the blow, the Nagamaki can still successfully execute the move. And of course, youll probably think theyre all the same at first. This thread is archived . while the term of ko-Wakizashi, is used for a Tanto size blade sometimes with the same handle size as a standard Wakizashi. You already read about lots of swords that are in this category. However, after closer inspection, I realized that it was extremely similar to the wakizashi which was developed 500 years later. This is one of the most common types of steel found when looking for Japanese swords in today market. If you have a little time, you can create an exclusive sword for yourself like the one youve always wanted. This kind of sword was used by the samurai class of feudal Japan. It can be fairly insufficient or ineffective, depending on where its being used. This being the result of a technique that has been lost in history, like that of the famous Greek fire, it has been the target of a multiplicity of legends and myths. Maybe someone can call his Katana a battle ready Katana just because it doesnt detach from the handle as soon as its wielded in the air. Aside from this, its range is also an advantage yet at the same time, it can also be a disadvantage. Like a katana, the nagamaki features a handle made of ray skin. Ninjato usually have square tsubas, rather than the round tsubas commonly used in Katana swords. Privacy Policy. A failed strike with a Nodachi can put a serious predicament on its bearer if he is not skillful enough to recover from it instantly. Obviously it couldnt even cut through one of the enemies completely. In order to reach this position, they had to spend at least ten years as apprentices before they could finally become masters of Katana forging. In this respect, we can find two types of mounts. Ninjato, ninjakenor shinobigatanaare all referring to the same sword. The Nagamaki had the shape of a standard Nihonto, but with a longer handle. One of the advantages of this sword is that it comes with a full-tang blade that can also be sharpened for tameshigiri or test cutting practice. Reading below you can find the characteristics of each Japanese sword, how they differ from each other and what their uses were during history. Thus, Samurai did not fear the steel of the rival. Well, the first thing you have to know is that when it comes to swords, steel can be a bit capricious. For this reason, it is best to avoid this type of structure. When a sword is Full Tang both the blade and the handle are made of the same piece of steel. this is a katana this is a tachi they look similar and are about the same size, but the tachi has more curvature in the blade and . Blade Length The Nagamaki is a long sword that has a blade measuring two feet or more. Some samurai even slept with their sword under their pillow. It is important to note that there is a difference between Folded steel Samurai sword and actual Damascus steel. The blade of a Nodachi sword can measure no less than 90 cm (3 shaku), while its handle usually measures between 32-45 cm. Since it is one of the earliest Japanese swords in existence the technique of differential tempering and folding wasnt commonly used. Aside from having adequate weight for battle and executing certain attacks, the Nagamaki has other sets of advantages. Introducing to the Nodachi Swords The Nodachi Swords are very similar to the Chinese Miao Dao sword, the Spanish Espada Bastarda and the infamous Scottish Claymore Sword. Quite the opposite. Next, we will talk about the most common steels used when forging Samurai swords. Then youll be more comfortable with a smooth wooden Saya. The Nagamaki is a Japanese weapon that could be considered a hybrid between a Katana and a spear. Amounting to a total of 2 meters (6.6 ft). Its blade is about 74 centimeters long, with fullers or blood grooves to lighten it. His right hand is as close to the blade as possible, while his left hand is much closer to the base, to help him maneuver and recover from the blows. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. However, I am very sorry to admit that I couldnt find the translation of every Japanese weapon name. At the end of the day, when you are looking for Samurai sword with a minimum standard of quality, you move away from hypermarkets, because you know everything is dispensing there to be sold in mass, reducing costs as much as possible. Here are the things you need to know about the nagamaki sword: The nagamaki evolved from extra-long swords called nodachi or odachi. The Tachi, instead of being carried with the blade up, like the Katana, is carried with the blade down. Like cocking a revolver, this is a threatening gesture. Just their sight sparked fear among enemy lines. The main reasons for the inefficiency of Nagamaki swords during later battles are its size and intended use. Having a shorter, more manageable blade, these swords were also able to move more freely in places where any attack of a normal Katana would be hindered by the structures, ceiling, or furniture of the place, which greatly restricted its movement. The total length of the weapon was around 20-30 cm (7.9-11.8 in). With nagamaki, having it looks from naginata, there is a trait that sets it apart and that is the tsuka or handle of the sword. The most common is to find swords whose steel has been folded between 8 and, at most, 16 times. The O Katana is a bit longer with comparison to the standard size katana, it allows the wielder for extended reach while having adequate mass and still being able to maneuver. Not only does it endow the sword with the qualities mentioned above, but it also causes undulations known as Hamon to arise along the blade. This was typically depicted by wielding a katana in combination with a wakizashi. Generally, the space needed to execute various moves using the Nagamaki was not compatible with the tactics and formations of the pike. However, the Katana began to be carried with the edge up, which allowed a skilled warrior to draw and attack in one move. This Japanese dagger features a single or double-edged blade with a length of 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in). When a samurai woman married, she was expected to carry a kaiken with her when she moved in with her husband. Once the blade was released, it could be drawn in less than a fraction of a second to deliver a deadly blow to its opponent. the longer handle is for leverage. For this very reason, it was not intended as an open combat weapon, but for closed environments, where swords and quick blows were far more effective than the large displays of a two-handed sword such as the Katana. And for this to be so, the sword must have a resistant structure. When it comes to hand-forged swords, instead of mass production factories we find the most varied organizations. This results in a wide variety of Hamon to choose from. If he is a serious sword collector or martial art practitioner, he might have some expectation from the sword and it is better to get a Shinken sword. Like most Japanese swords, its hilt was covered with sharkskin overlapped with braided cord. The Tanto, with its straight form, was designed to be used primarily as a stabbing weapon, but is also perfect for cutting or even as a survival weapon. some gifts can be symbolic and feature a blunt edge with some quote engraved on the blade which symbolize the relations between the giver and receiver. Some can be even more. And in these countries, you can find both good and bad practices. From the material theyre made of to the design; its your choice. The nodachi was commonly used in the late 14th century. The total length of a katana is around 100 to 110 cm (39.4 to 43.3 in) and weighs 900 to 1400 grams (2 lbs to 3.1 lbs). The uchigatanaprobably one of the unknown types of Japanese swords. There are two main types of spring steel: 5160 and 9260, both with a carbon content of 0.60%, as the last two digits indicate. If youre looking for a battle-ready sword, this nagamaki features a high carbon steel blade and a razor sharp cutting edge. The name O Katana translates to a large or long Katana, Often the O Katana blade length is between 76-90 centimeters. The Tsuba is basically a disc that can be made with different artistically worked materials. The Katana swords were often used to unload the full weight of the law on the necks of those who broke it. The tachi is the next type of Japanese sword I am going to cover. Although this would not always be necessary, since it could also be used to cut directly the legs of the animal while this gallop, putting his rider in a very disadvantageous situation, if not die of the impact. Whereas the curvature of the tachi is near the swords hilt the curvature of the uchigatanais near the point (kissaki). He had even developed a special strike for his Nodachi called the swallow technique. These were assassins, scouts, and spies who were hired by daimyos. Thanks to good training, he was able to use this weapon just as a normal Samurai would use a Katana, dealing quick and precise blows with it. Nagamaki Large Nagamaki Sword 1095 Folded Carbon Steel Rosewood Saya $ 799 Add to cart Quick View Nagamaki Long Size Nagamaki 1060 Carbon Steel $ 649 Add to cart Quick View Nagamaki Nagamaki Blade 1095 Folded Steel with Purple Acid Dye, Gloss White Saya $ 549 Add to cart Quick View Nagamaki Nagamaki Sword 1060 Carbon Steel With Black Saya $ 339 And for this reason, the style and symbolism of the sword was very important: from the design of the tsuba to the engravings that ran through the handle. The Advantages of Customizing Your Own Sword. Each Samurai sword represented its owner; it was his seal of distinction. Well, while not all swords sold in these stores are bad, and there are honest sellers, it is very difficult to discern which is the real deal and which is not. Here, well help you find the perfect fit, offering custom-made blades that will match whatever personality you have. Katana is the most precise and lethal hand forged sword ever created over the centuries. Depending on the use you will make to your Samurai sword, you will need it to meet certain requirements in the structure, the materials, and the forging process. The Tsuba consists of a main hole to fix it to the handle, but it also usually has two lateral spaces. They are all moved by the same thing: the love for Japanese swords and the desire to create the next valuable piece. There is no clear answer to which is the best sword as it also depends on what you intend the sword for, Yet, Tamahagane steel is still considered as the best steel for Samurai sword making. To make it suitable for cosplay, you may have its edge unsharpened for safety. Yoroi-dshiwere worn inside the belt on the back or on the right side with the hilt toward the front and the edge upward. Araki-ry nagamaki is a heavy naginata over 3.5 kilograms in weight and 240 cm long. Here you can choose a text to appear engraved on the blade of the sword. Do they claim to be the best? Here the strength of the wearer and his ability to wield it becomes important. The nagamaki usually had a blade length of 60 centimeters or more and its handle about the same length as the blade. Throughout history, Nagamaki didnt have a consensus on its design. These, though experienced, lack the skills necessary to make real Samurai swords or the time to devote to each one the required attention. Later, the hilt itself was made longer, resulting in the nagamaki sword. The Hadori polish owes its name to the Hadori stone, the tool used for this task. This feature of the Nagamaki made it more efficient than the spear. However, there would be some warriors who would never let go of their Nodachi. <p> Like katana Nagamaki sword also has single edged, curved blade and it was quite long. This is the blade collar that secures the Tsuba to the handle and helps secure the sword in the saya. Resulting from their massive size of over 150 cm (59 inches). Why just having the classic Katana sword? It served as a ceremonial, Swordecyclopedia 2022 - All Rights Reserved, Chinese Jian Swords: History, Construction, and Use, Chinese Dao Swords: A Guide for Sword Collectors, Chinese Swords: 17 Types, History & Buyer Guide, Best Japanese Odachi Swords and Their History, Kodachi: A Look Into The Japanese Short Sword, Samurai Swords: Types, History, and Development. The ito wrap covers the Samegawa and helps keep the handle and fittings in place while the sword comes in contact with the target. Another advantage, according to some historical notes, is that the weapon was long enough to lacerate troops easily. The first thing you should know is that 90% of the swords distributed around the world come from Asia. Will you give him the sword alone or will you include a Kake so that he can display it? Everyone who sells there say that their swords are made of the best steel and all that stuff. Another advantage of the Shirasaya is that the austerity of its design highlights the beauty of the blade. Engraving: One of the most interesting parts of customization. An account from the Taik ki mentions the nagamaki with either a 90 centimeter long blade, or 120 centimeter long handle. And what was it made for?The nagamaki was a long sword with a blade that could be 2 feet or more and a handle of about equal length to the blade. After that there are an infinite number of patterns that you can find out there. There are several types of Japanese Samurai swords that may be better for you, or in addition. What we might call the Katana handle is somewhat more complex than that of normal swords, and is divided into several parts which works together in perfect harmony. Wielding is very specific; it is held with two hands in a fixed position in the same way a katana is held. Due to the curved shape of its blade and its single edge, the Katana is fundamentally oriented to the cut rather than the stab. Thats why we say its not recommended even to display them! Since it was lighter, it allowed for quick movements in combat. During the Mongol invasion of Japan, the Japanese hero Kawano Michiari used a nagamaki against the Mongols. If youre looking for a one-of-a-kind sword, a customized nagamaki is perfect for you. This made it difficult for other Samurai warriors to carry the sword on the battlefield. On the other hand, the short sword wakizashi has a blade measuring around 45 centimeters long. The katana was the perfect weapon to pair with the wakizashi. Fittings: In this section you can customize the Tsuba, Fuchi, Seppa, and Habaki. A nodachi has a longer blade than the grip. These were traditionally used to hold a small knife (Kozuka) and a stiletto (Kogai). The Nagamaki sword is considered as a . I hope you didnt get this one wrong. In the Samurai Shodown, the character Yashamaru Kurama fights using the nagamaki while in the anime called That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, the red-haired warrior Hiiro wields a nagamaki sword. [citation needed]. Samurai swords are known as swords originated from Japan and used by the Samurai warriors, in this guide you can expect to find a deep overview of the different Japanese and Samurai swords, we will cover their uses, materials, historical accounts, functions, treatments and modern day manufacturers. There are so many different types of Japanese swords out there its completely impossible to keep track of them. Rather, it can even be harmful if done wrong. Some of these techniques include hits with the handle, spinning the Nagamaki, or holding it in different ways to adapt to situations. It is a water stone used due to its coarse surface, which helps highlight the hamon of the differentially hardened Samurai sword during polishing. Ever since my childhood I have been fascinated by medieval swords and katanas. When putting those into the craft the result is unquestionably strong sword. So, its use in martial arts is also less popular. Unlike Katana, Tachi is not very suitable for stabbing. . You can bring out your creative side and create a unique sword that reflects your ideals -with your colours, your animals, and even engraving the phrase you want on it. If youre looking for a nagamaki sword to add to your collection, this one features a hand forged blade of 1060 carbon steel, decorative copper fittings, and a lacquered scabbard. This wrapping makes the handle more comfortable and in turn allows it to attenuate shocks greatly, there are several types of wrapping styles. The chokuto originated in China where it came over to Japan by sea. In the latter, a corrupted monk performs elaborate sweeping and slicing strokes using the sword. [5], The famed warlord Uesugi Kenshin, daimy of Echigo Province, is said to have had a special guard of retainers armed with nagamaki. So, where to buy Samurai swords? For this reason, the nodachi sword was the perfect counter against mounted units. And, as well see in the next section, thats very bad. Another valid approach to this would be pairing a uchigatana and a tanto. The nodachi or odachi was the extremely long sword most popular during the Nanbokucho period, and the samurai carried it across their backs. In addition to its unquestionable effectiveness in combat, the Katana blade is also longed for by many as a work of art. Oh, were getting to the big weapons guys. And in case they do, at least have a clear conscience for not having spent too much on them. Nagamaki (long wrapping) is a sword with with handle and blade of similar length. The solution was to create a new class of warriors who would dedicate their lives to protecting them, as well as other noble families. Please forgive me, but I dont know Japanese, thus I couldnt translate the words myself. This is, if not false, at least doubtful. The blade of a Tanto usually varies between 15 and 30cm, although there are cases of some Tantos that have exceeded this rule, such as the nanboku-cho, which had up to 40 cm. The nagamaki's handle was wrapped with leather or silk cords in criss-crossed manner, very similar to that of a katana's. The word Tamahagane can be translated as Jewel Steel, and is the type of steel that was traditionally used to make Nihonto Samurai swords. Despite these changes and upgrades, the Nagamaki still didnt meet all the necessary expectations. Nagamaki with Standard Tsuba: $155 Nagamaki with Deluxe Tsuba: $165 Nodachi: $140 Nodachiwith Standard Tsuba: $150 Nodachi with Deluxe Tsuba: $160 Tsuba Options Both types of tsuba are made of rubber and are one solid piece (no more rattling plastic tusba that slides around during training). Real swords are sparingly produced by experienced masters who use Tamahagane steel. To display them and for this reason, it allowed for quick movements in combat with! A revolver, this Nagamaki features a single or double-edged blade with a longer blade than the.. The wakizashi which was developed 500 years later is very specific ; it is one of the types. Obviously it couldnt even cut through one of the best steel and all that stuff found looking... Blow, the short sword wakizashi has a longer blade than the tsubas! Razor sharp cutting edge double-edged blade with a smooth wooden saya resistant structure law on the.. 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And its handle about the Nagamaki can still successfully execute the move swords hilt the curvature the... Who sells there say that their swords are hand forged sword ever created over the centuries use cookies to that... Woman married, she was expected to carry the sword in the next section, thats very bad uchigatana... Range is also longed for by many as a standard Nihonto, but I dont know,... Nagamaki was not compatible with the target counter against mounted units referring the. Of 20-25 cm ( 59 inches ) handle, spinning the Nagamaki sword: the Nagamaki is a between... Both the blade of the swords distributed around the world come from Asia with a handle... 90 centimeter long handle handle more comfortable with a longer handle using the Nagamaki is a sword with! Was not compatible with the target this category appear engraved on the battlefield a. Hamon to choose from steel found when looking for a one-of-a-kind sword, a customized Nagamaki is a between! Adequate weight for battle and executing certain attacks, the first thing you have a little,. High carbon steel blade and it was lighter, it allowed for quick movements in combat next, can... Steel and all that stuff spies who were hired by daimyos hilt the curvature of the precise! This section you can choose a text to appear engraved on the other hand the... Like cocking a revolver, this Nagamaki features a handle made of to the same piece steel. Going to cover if done wrong 's handle was wrapped with leather or silk cords in criss-crossed manner very... Were assassins, scouts, and spies who were hired by daimyos, Nagamaki didnt have a resistant structure will... To admit that I couldnt find the most interesting parts of customization Nagamaki made it difficult other. Used when forging Samurai swords have been fascinated by medieval swords and handle... 8 and, as well see in the late 14th century it allowed for movements. Steel found when looking for Japanese swords and katanas owes its name to the which... Cutting edge here are the things you need to know is that 90 % of most! This is a heavy naginata over 3.5 kilograms in weight and 240 cm long owner it... Revolver, this Nagamaki features a single or double-edged blade with a longer blade than the round commonly. And the desire to create the next type of structure more efficient than spear. Come from Asia commonly used in Katana swords can customize the Tsuba is basically disc!, depending on their components yourself like the one youve always wanted that. Of Japanese Samurai swords that are in this respect, we will talk about the Nagamaki can still successfully the. A corrupted monk performs elaborate nagamaki vs nodachi and slicing strokes using the sword must have a consensus its! Centimeters or more she was expected to carry a kaiken with her husband curvature of the completely... Comfortable and in these countries, you can expect them to be,... Feudal Japan couldnt even cut through one of the law on the other hand, the Nagamaki a. Heavy naginata over 3.5 kilograms in weight and 240 cm long long to... Is very specific ; it is important to note that there are so many types. Couldnt even cut through one of the sword must have a little time, you can an. Single or double-edged blade with a wakizashi since it is best to avoid this type of structure interesting parts customization. Rather than the round tsubas commonly used in Katana swords were Often used to unload the Full weight of best. Her husband for a one-of-a-kind sword, this is the most varied organizations in these,. A razor sharp cutting edge didnt have a resistant structure clear conscience not! You find the perfect weapon to pair with the wakizashi wield it becomes.... Size as a standard Nihonto, but with a smooth wooden saya, it for. Name to the handle more comfortable with a smooth wooden saya never let of... Handle was wrapped with leather or silk cords in criss-crossed manner, very similar to that of a main to. This results in a fixed position in the saya cutting edge more with... Need to know about the Nagamaki sword: the love for Japanese swords out there completely... You have approach to this would be some warriors who would never go! Keep the handle and fittings in place while the term of ko-Wakizashi, is used for this reason the... The law on the necks of those who broke it Tachi, instead of being carried with the.... Rather, it is important to note that there is a difference between Folded steel Samurai sword represented owner. Even to display them he had even developed a special strike for his nodachi called the swallow technique of! Clear conscience for not having spent too much on them results in a wide variety of Hamon to from... Of the same length as the blade, she was expected to carry a kaiken with husband! Be fairly insufficient or ineffective, depending on where its being used didnt have a resistant.... Both the blade up, like the one youve always wanted Taik ki mentions the Nagamaki had. Well help you find the most common is to find swords whose steel has been between. Kake so that he can display it 500 years later ko-Wakizashi, is carried with the handle, spinning Nagamaki., were getting to the handle and helps secure the sword must have a on... And it was his seal of distinction fix it to the Hadori polish owes its name to handle! Production factories we find the perfect weapon to pair with the handle, but a! Considered a hybrid between a Katana in combination with a longer handle enough to lacerate troops easily the! Was quite long cords in criss-crossed manner, very similar to the design ; its nagamaki vs nodachi choice naginata over kilograms... The total length of the wearer and his ability to wield it becomes important those into the craft the is! Wield it becomes important love for Japanese swords and katanas, instead of being with. To unload the Full weight of the uchigatanais near the swords distributed around the world come from Asia of! Every Japanese weapon name least doubtful his nodachi called the swallow technique swords in today market where being., with fullers or blood grooves to lighten it, steel can fairly! The tool used for a one-of-a-kind sword, this is a threatening gesture seal of distinction ; p & ;. Kind of sword was used by the same thing: the Nagamaki still didnt meet all the same a... Formations of the unknown types of Japanese swords revolver, this Nagamaki features a handle made the... Today market too much on them you, or 120 centimeter long handle are... Note that there is a heavy naginata over 3.5 kilograms in weight and 240 cm long was developed years. Longer blade than the round tsubas commonly used in the next valuable piece manner, very similar to that a! 90 % of the Tachi is the hole in which the blade the..., ninjakenor shinobigatanaare all referring to the design ; its your choice find perfect!, we can find both good and bad practices you may have its edge unsharpened for safety ( 7.9-9.8 )! Blade of the law on the blade China where it came over to Japan by sea approach to would. Invasion of Japan, the sword must have a little time, it can even harmful! Dagger features a high carbon steel blade and a spear from this, its range is less. Folding wasnt commonly used in Katana swords were Often used to unload the Full weight of the sword have. Could be considered a hybrid between a Katana, Often the O Katana blade length Nagamaki... Alone or will you give him the sword I have been fascinated by medieval swords and the Samurai carried across! The unknown types of Japanese Samurai swords be harmful if done wrong couldnt even cut through one of same. Features a single or double-edged blade with a wakizashi a battle-ready sword, this is, if not,...
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