What are the Structural Differences Between a Ninjato and a Katana?

The Ninjato and the Katana have several differences. These include the blades’ curvature, size, and the shape of its Tsuba. Most importantly, the two swords have different histories.

Straight and Curved Blades

The most noticeable difference between the Ninjato and the Katana is the curvature. The Ninjato resembled a Chokuto, which features a straight blade.

Since it wasn’t curved, it didn’t have the cutting capabilities of the Katana. Its shape didn’t allow the blade to slice through its target. Instead, the wielder would use a chopping motion with the Ninjato.

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Blade Sizes and Weight

The blade of a standard Ninjato was shorter, with a length of 48 centimeters. Its length was always shorter than 60cm. Given these sizes, the Ninjato was a lightweight sword that allowed its wielder to perform quick movements with it.

The Shinobi preferred swords that were shorter and straighter since it was more convenient for espionage. The Katana, on the other hand, measured between 60cm and 80cm, while its weight usually ranged from 1.1 to 1.5kg.

Tsuba of the Ninjato and Katana

The Tsuba or handguard of the Ninjato is usually square-shaped. For the Katana, it often featured a circular Tsuba, but sometimes, square ones could be found.

History and Origin of the Ninjato and Katana

Since the origins of the Ninjato is unknown, there isn’t a lot of available information about this sword. There isn’t a physical evidence that the Shinobi used this sword before the 20th century. However, it’s said to be the preferred weapon of the Shinobi in feudal Japan.

The Katana, on the other hand, is a popular sword and has a rich history. It was first used during the Kamakura period, and it went through a lot of changes and developments through the centuries. Eventually, it became the primary sword of the Samurai warriors.

Is the Ninjato Better Than a Katana?

When comparing which is better between the Ninjato and Katana, it all depends on what it’ll be used for. Both of these swords are excellent for specific uses and are both functional in their own way.

Which is the Better Combat Sword?

The best combat sword among the two is the one you’re most trained with. Also, the best blade is the one designed for functional use, meaning, the materials used are of high quality.

A standard Katana features a slightly arched blade. With that, it has its own set of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to combat. In general, it’s best for cutting and slashing during combat.

With its curve, the Katana makes drawing and cutting more comfortable, plus it enhances the weapon’s balance. This, in turn, makes it convenient for the user.

For the Ninjato, it acted as a utility tool, and its straight blade was somewhat durable for various tasks. Aside from using it for battles, the Ninjato was used for hiding poison/chemicals, climbing high places, and more.

Sword Materials

The process of creating a Katana requires the use of higher-quality steel. It’s compared to the Ninjato that was often made of inferior steel.

For the Ninjato, it’s simple and quite crude, unlike the Katana; hence, why it was considered inferior to the other.

In the past, these Shinobi swords consisted of scrap and slabs of metal. The Shinobi made the swords themselves since they weren’t wealthy enough to have one made.

For the Katana, these were designed beautifully by professional smiths, hence, were considered almost perfect cutting machines. These were tempered into a curve while the core was left soft. Its edges were hardened greatly.

The Ninjato and Katana used different materials and had varying methods of production. Despite that, they functioned differently and were the best for their uses.

The Katana was mostly for battle, and the Ninjato sword primarily functioned as a tool.