What Was the Nodachi Used For?

When it comes to functionality, the use of a Nodachi falls as a ceremonial piece and as an infantry weapon. These were the two primary uses of the sword.

Anti-Cavalry Sword

The Nodachi was a huge anti-cavalry sword used for striking down the enemy horse as it approached. Alternatively, the sword can function as a cavalry-on-cavalry blade similar to the Zhan Ma Dao of China.

The Nodachi had boosted weight, increased slashing area, and more extended reach. With that, it offered some benefits over the lance, spear, and smaller swords.

Aside from its heavier weight, it was also longer than the Tachi. With its length, it became a great weapon that allowed for extended reach.

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However, wielding this sword required exceptional skill. Although the Samurai warriors were skilled and experienced in combat, not all were capable of using the Nodachi.

An Offering to Shrines and Gods

Aside from being a weapon of combat, the Nodachi was also a votive offering for shrines and its patron gods. The Samurai did this as a form of offering before a war.

Since it was reputed as a legendary sword, some temples also have the Nodachi displayed.

Like other trends, the use of the Nodachi was often prevalent, especially during the Edo period. Because of that, seeing this sword in ceremonies during the period was common.

After a few years, the Nodachi started to lose its practical purpose on the battlefield. Since then, it was used only for ceremonial and religious purposes.

Some swordsmiths continued to create the Nodachi to showcase their skills and workmanship.

A Symbol of Strength

In feudal Japan, the Nodachi was also for showcasing an army’s presence and strength. The spear was also used for the same purpose. Its intended use was for encouraging troops and increasing their morale.

Various historical stories are claiming that the Nodachi instilled fear in enemies. When the Japanese fought against the Koreans, the sight of the Nodachi caused them to step back and retreat.

With that, the Nodachi sword became a significant weapon to the Samurai.

What Are the Advantages of Using the Nodachi?

The Nodachi had numerous advantages in combat since it was a powerful weapon. Its sheer length and accuracy were some reasons why warriors preferred this sword. However, it was difficult to use, so only the most skilled Samurai were able to wield this sword.

What made using the Nodachi challenging was its size. Since it can’t be worn on the waist through the Obi or sash, the Samurai carried it on their backs.

An Efficient Infantry Weapon

The length of the Nodachi allowed its wielder to reach enemies from a distance. Because of that, it became an excellent weapon for fighting against cavalrymen. Wielders of the Nodachi would strike down a horse to unmount their opponent.

Although extremely long and heavy, the Nodachi was an excellent weapon if the wielder had adequate skills and training. It was also believed that the Nodachi offered superior cutting accuracy compared to other types of Nihonto.

The Nodachi was designed for the battlefield and was not suitable for indoor use. However, it offered more advantage compared to shorter swords and spears if used properly.

Massive and Powerful

Although the Nodachi was a cumbersome weapon, its size made it more powerful. If a skilled swordsman used this weapon, he would be able to land a powerful blow. An opponent who would attempt parrying a strike with a Katana would have no advantage against the Nodachi user.

When utilizing the Katana, a Samurai would have to rely on his patience and speed when attacking. The Nodachi, on the other hand, was more powerful. It also had a longer reach, which placed the Katana wielder at a disadvantage.

How the Nodachi Was Used

What made the Nodachi challenging to use was its size. Carrying it like how a warrior would wear other types of Nihonto was impossible, so they brought the sword differently.

As mentioned earlier, one would wear it on their backs. Some would carry it by hand while it was sheathed. During the Muromachi Period, it became common for the Samurai to have a follower assisting them with drawing the Nodachi.