Did the Appearance of the Ninjato Change as Time Passed?

Due to the lack of evidence of the Ninjato’s existence in feudal Japan, it is unknown whether its appearance changed. No physical proof can confirm its existence before the 20th century.

Also, the so-called replicas are based on the Wakizashi Sword and Chokuto, which were associated with Ashigaru or foot soldiers.

The Appearance of the Ninjato

The Ninjato is usually depicted as a short sword with a straight blade. It resembles a Shikomizue or a Japanese sword stick. This is a blade kept in a mount that’s similar to a cane. Also, it often had a square Tsuba or handguard.

When it comes to the blade, it is much shorter than 60cm. Plus, it was thick, straight, and heavy.

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How the Ninjato Was Created

Despite its debated historical existence, it’s said that it may have a straight blade due to how it was made. The Shinobi likely forged their weapons using slabs of iron and steel.

Since they lacked high-quality steel and swordsmithing materials, creating straight blades was easier than curved ones.

Aside from that, the Shinobi may have emulated Fudo Myo-oh. This Buddhist deity of Shinobi families is shown brandishing a straight-bladed short sword similar to the Chokuto.

Usage of the Straight-Bladed Ninjato

According to the historian Stephen Turnbull, the most important weapon of the Shinobi was his sword. It was for convenience and function, so they opted for a shorter and straighter blade.

Since the Shinobi used the Ninjato as a tool, it is possible that the sword’s appearance didn’t change over time. The lack of evidence to confirm the existence of this weapon and martial techniques for this sword are also unproven.

Movies depict that the Ninjato is a straight-bladed sword that is shorter than the Katana.

In books and other written materials, it’s stated that the Shinobi executed quick drawing techniques focusing on drawing the sword. They also perform cutting techniques as a simultaneous attacking or defensive action.

What’s the Best Way to Store a Ninjato?

The best way to store a Ninjato is to keep it sheathed when not being used. You should place it in a horizontal position as well.

Aside from storing it properly, the Ninjato sword requires proper and regular maintenance. Like a lot of other swords, the Ninjato needs adequate care and cleaning. Without this, any blade can get damaged in the long run.

The major purpose of proper storage and care is to prevent the steel’s surface from getting oxidized and rusty.

Proper Storage

As mentioned, the best way to store your Ninjato is to have it sheathed and settled in a horizontal position. This position will keep the blade’s edge in an upward position, protecting it from breakages.

Another way to properly store your Ninjato is by purchasing a rack or sword stand for it.

Aside from these, it’s best to store the sword in an area that’s cool and dry. Always protect your sword from moisture and humidity since these cause rusting and corrosion to the blade.

Things Needed for Cleaning the Blade

Other than proper storage, you will need to regularly clean your Ninjato to keep it in top shape.

You’ll need a couple of things to keep it clean, and one of them is Choji oil. It’s a special oil for swords that helps protect the blade from rust.

There’s also Uchiko powder that’s fine enough for cleaning off the oil from the sword. The powder is contained in an inner wrapper of paper and an outer wrap made from silk. These serve as a filter to have the finest Uchiko particles settle on the blade.

The paper used is called Nugui Gami. It’s a set of classic Japanese paper made from a sensitive and soft pulp tissue exclusive for wiping swords.

Wiping and cleaning the blade requires two pieces of Nugui Gami. The first one is for removing oil and dust. The other piece of Nugui Gami is for wiping off the powder from the blade’s surface.