JAPANESE SWORDS
Japanese swords are probably the most popularized sword in history. This is most likely in part to the cultural significance that both the sword and the military had in Japan. In fact during the height of the Chinese power (the Chinese were notoriously xenophobic and believed in their innate superiority in all things) they reportedly imported Japanese swords for their army. Sword making was elevated to near religious status in Japan. The 3 Japanese blades that were in the widest use were the katana (longsword), wazikashi (shortsword) and the tanto (knife). These swords were made using techniques that are still in use today. Incredible steel strength was obtained by folding the steel literally thousands of times. This also gave the swords an exceptional edge retention (stayed sharp). Also this process leaves a distinct temper line known as the "o-midare" or turbulent sea which describes the wavy temper line.
| Home |
Sword Links |
Brief History |
Swords in sports |
The anatomy of a
sword/sword vernacular |
Sword types |