What Makes the Katana So Special?

One reason why the Katana is special is because of its shape. If you compare it with other swords, its blade has a nicely-curved shape and measures over 60.6 centimeters.

Aside from its unique curve, the Katana is also slender and single-edged. It sports a squared or circular Tsuba (guard), plus a long Tsuka (grip) to accommodate both hands.

Another reason why the sword is considered extraordinary is due to how it is made. It’s crafted with different and specific grades of carbon steel that are produced in their smelters. Also, the steel used for the Katana needs to be folded.

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The Katana is also remarkable because of it being a supreme cutting weapon. Why is it an excellent cutting weapon? Because classic Katana swords don’t have secondary bevels for its edge.

It allows the sword to come to a much sharper edge. It’s single-edged, which can be made sharper and thicker, making the sword more rigid. The Katana sword’s point of balance is away from its Tsuba, which is a massive benefit for a cutting weapon like this sword.

Moreover, it is a sword that’s relatively balanced and light. It has the right amount of curve, not lacking and not overly curved.

Katana

With that, the force of one blow is focused on a single portion of the blade. Its slight curve is a significant advantage since the Katana doesn’t come off as being ineffective as a stabbing piece.

Basing it on history, the Katana is significant because it serves as a status symbol of the Samurai class. After the sword hunts made by famous warlords Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Nobunaga Oda, the Katana became the defining feature of the warrior class. These became special due to what people feel for the blades.

 

What are the Things to Consider When Choosing Your Katana?

When choosing a Katana, the most vital element to consider is its functionality. Next would be the steel type where the blade is made of.

When it comes to functionality, ask yourself what you’ll use the Katana for. If you plan to learn Japanese swordsmanship without using a sharp sword, the blunt Iaito is best for you.

The blunt sword is best if you want to practice Kata (forms) and swinging techniques. You should not use this for cutting anything. It doesn’t have a cutting edge like functional swords, and its blade consists of other materials other than steel.

Katana

Another option is functional or Shinken Katana. This type of sword features a sharpened blade, allowing you to use it for real test cutting. It can withstand the rigors of practice cutting without acquiring damages.

Since it’s a functional Katana, it can keep a sharp edge. It’s the ideal sword for training in the Dojo or your backyard.

For the type of steel, these vary by carbon content. When the carbon content is higher, the blade becomes harder. The steel types used for a Katana are 1060 carbon steel, 1095 carbon steel, 9260 spring steel, or T10 steel.

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These kinds of steel provide adequate hardness for blades, allowing you to use it for cutting practice. Swords with lower carbon content are brittle and will easily acquire damage when used on various targets.

Aside from the steel type, you have to consider if you want a blade made of folded or non-folded steel. Folding the steel was a traditional process for refining the steel when forging a Katana.

For modern steel, folding doesn’t affect the quality of the sword. However, it adds to the blade’s aesthetic by forming Hada or grain pattern. If you want this feature, you should get a folded steel Katana.

Clay tempering is another factor that you should consider when getting a Katana. This process makes the blade’s edge hard while keeping its spine soft, adding to its flexibility.