What Are the Key Parts of a Samurai Sword?

A samurai sword, or nihonto (日本刀), is a finely crafted weapon made up of several distinct parts, each serving a specific function in the overall design and effectiveness of the sword.

The components of a samurai sword are not only functional but also carry deep cultural and symbolic meanings. Below is a detailed exploration of the key parts of  traditional samurai swords, focusing on the Katana as the most iconic example.

The Samurai Blade Parts (Tōshin – 刀身)

Nagasa (Blade Length):

The nagasa refers to the length of the blade from the tip (kissaki) to the munemachi (the notch at the back of the blade where it meets the tang). The blade length is one of the most critical dimensions of the Samurai sword, affecting its balance, handling, and effectiveness in combat.

Kissaki (Blade Tip):

The kissaki is the tip of the Katana blade, designed for precise thrusting and cutting. The shape of the kissaki can vary, with the most common being the chu-kissaki (medium-sized tip). The boshi (tempering line) on the kissaki extends from the hamon and is carefully polished to a sharp point.

Ha (Edge):

The ha is the cutting edge of the blade, traditionally sharpened to a razor edge. It is the most critical part of the blade for cutting and is often differentially hardened to create a hard edge and a softer spine, resulting in the distinctive hamon (temper line).

Mune (Back of the Blade):

The mune is the back edge of the blade, opposite the cutting edge. It provides structural support to the blade, allowing it to maintain its shape during use. The mune can have different shapes, such as flat (iori-mune) or rounded (maru-mune).

Hamon (Temper Line):

The hamon is the visible line that runs along the edge of the blade, created during the differential hardening process. The hamon not only enhances the blade’s aesthetics but also indicates the boundary between the hard edge and the softer spine, contributing to the blade’s cutting ability and durability.

Hada (Grain Pattern):

The hada is the grain pattern visible on the surface of the blade, resulting from the folding process during forging. The hada can vary in appearance, from straight lines (masame-hada) to wavy patterns (mokume-hada), and is a sign of the swordsmith’s craftsmanship.

Shinogi (Ridge Line):

The shinogi is the ridge line that runs along the blade, separating the flat ji (surface) from the ha (cutting edge). The shinogi provides structural strength to the blade and helps to guide the sword through its target during a cut.

Nakago (Tang):

 The nakago is the unsharpened part of the blade that extends into the handle (tsuka). It is hidden from view but plays a crucial role in securing the blade to the handle. The nakago often bears the swordsmith’s signature (mei), indicating the blade’s maker and origin.

Mei (Signature):

The mei is the signature inscribed on the nakago by the swordsmith. It typically includes the name of the swordsmith, the location where the sword was made, and sometimes the date of creation. The mei is an essential aspect of the sword’s authenticity and historical value.

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The Samurai Sword Handle (Tsuka – 柄)

Tsuka (Handle):

The tsuka is the handle of the sword, designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip. It is typically made from wood and wrapped in rayskin (samegawa) for added texture and durability. The handle is then tightly bound with a cord (ito), which can be made from silk, cotton, or leather, to ensure a firm grip.

Samegawa (Rayskin Wrapping):

Samegawa is the rayskin used to wrap the tsuka. It provides a rough texture that helps secure the cord wrapping (ito) and prevents the handle from slipping during use. Traditionally, the rayskin comes from stingray or shark and is often bleached white to contrast with the darker wrapping.

Ito (Handle Wrapping):

The ito is the cord that is wrapped around the tsuka in a crisscross pattern. The ito not only enhances the grip but also contributes to the sword’s aesthetics. The wrapping pattern can vary, but it is always done with precision to ensure that the handle remains secure during combat.

Menuki (Ornaments):

Menuki are decorative ornaments placed under the ito wrapping on both sides of the tsuka. Originally, they served a practical purpose by providing additional grip, but over time, they became more ornamental, often depicting mythological figures, animals, or symbols of power.

Fuchi (Handle Collar) and Kashira (Pommel Cap):

The fuchi is the collar at the base of the tsuka, while the kashira is the cap at the end of the handle. Together, they secure the handle’s wrapping and add structural integrity to the tsuka. These components are often intricately decorated, reflecting the status and taste of the sword’s owner.

Mekugi (Peg):

 The mekugi is a small bamboo peg that secures the nakago (tang) inside the tsuka. Typically, there are one or two mekugi pegs inserted through the handle, ensuring that the blade remains firmly attached during use. The mekugi is removable, allowing the sword to be disassembled for maintenance.

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The Samurai Sword Guard (Tsuba – 鍔)

Tsuba (Guard):

The tsuba is the handguard positioned between the blade and the handle. It serves to protect the wielder’s hand from sliding onto the blade and from enemy attacks. The tsuba can vary greatly in design, from simple, functional pieces to highly ornate, intricately carved works of art. The materials used for tsuba include iron, steel, and various alloys, often featuring elaborate designs with symbolic meanings.

Seppa (Spacers):

The seppa are metal washers located between the tsuba and the fuchi on one side, and between the tsuba and the habaki on the other side. The seppa help to secure the tsuba in place and ensure a tight fit between the various components of the sword. They are often thin and unadorned but play a crucial role in the sword’s overall construction.

Habaki (Blade Collar):

The habaki is a metal collar that fits around the base of the blade, just above the tang (nakago). It serves to lock the blade into the scabbard and provides a tight fit to prevent the blade from rattling or slipping out. The habaki also helps distribute the stress placed on the blade when the sword is in use.

The Samurai Sword Scabbard (Saya – 鞘)

Saya (Scabbard):

The saya is the scabbard that encases the blade when it is not in use. It is typically made from lightweight wood and lacquered for durability and aesthetic appeal. The saya protects the blade from damage and corrosion while allowing for quick and smooth drawing of the sword. The kurigata (knob) on the saya is where the cord (sageo) is attached, used to secure the scabbard to the samurai’s belt (obi).

Koiguchi (Scabbard Mouth):

The koiguchi is the reinforced mouth of the saya where the blade enters. It is often lined with buffalo horn to prevent wear and ensure a snug fit for the blade, preventing it from accidentally falling out.

Kojiri (Scabbard Tip):

The kojiri is the end cap of the saya, usually made from metal or horn. It reinforces the tip of the scabbard and protects it from damage. The kojiri can also be decorative, adding to the overall aesthetic of the sword.

Sageo (Cord):

The sageo is the cord attached to the kurigata of the saya. It is used to tie the scabbard to the samurai’s belt (obi). The sageo can be plain or elaborately braided, depending on the formality of the occasion and the personal style of the sword’s owner.