The Samurai Sword has been given a lot of names throughout time, but the most recognizable name for the sword is Katana or Japanese sword. The two differing names, however, mean two very contrasting things. The Katana is a specific type of Japanese or Samurai sword, whereas the Japanese sword covers all the various types of Japanese-made (historically speaking) swords. No one really knows the true history of the Samurai sword, but the terms (Japanese sword and Samurai) have been mutually exclusive to the Japanese (fighting) culture for hundreds upon hundreds of years, well before the 9th century.
Swords have a long history of change, especially in the realm of Samurai culture. Before the 10th century, for example, a blade might have had a bend closer to the grip. A couple hundred years later, a similar sword might have a curve midway up the blade. These changes are due to the changes in combat style and the enemies the samurai faced. These small but necessary changes in the Samurai’s sword actually contributed to the long lifespan of the samurai and the values they stood for. A samurai’s sword was often an extension of himself—a part of his mind, body and soul, extended to a metal object capable of saving and taking lives.
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The straight bladed former sword (a.k.a. the Chukoto) soon changed to the curved style (a.k.a. Koto) due to the changes in styles of combat. Later, the curve or bend in the blade of the Samurai’s sword tended to be higher on the blade (a Tachi). If a Japanese warrior were riding a horse, for example, he would need a sword that could have a deeper cut with more power from atop a horse. The changes of the sword are due mainly to the changing types of warfare experienced over the years. More changes ensued with the invasion of other countries. The Samurai had to deal with the Mongols among other invaders. The Mongol forces were well equipped and had armor of metal and leather that was even harder to pierce.
Instead of a sword being a simple mold or cut from a block or slab of steel, for instance, the Samurai’s sword took on characteristics from China. Swordsmiths learned metal folding techniques and began making Samurai swords in a new way. The Samurai sword could be cut, hammered, with various heating techniques, and then hammered flat with all the air bubbles removed. The main and most often-used Samurai swords included three novel makes: the Tanto, the Wakizashi and the Katana. A Samurai could and often wear one or two of these blades based upon his rank and class. Often, only the best killers and most trusted Samurai would wear two weapons at once; these fighters were called Shogun.
In reality today, there are more Samurai swords in the United States than in Japan. Statistically speaking, the US has about three times as many swords as Japan, due to the fact that many of them became obsolete later in the 19th century. Plus, thousands were brought home as souvenirs by servicemen. A Samurai sword, in fact, is classified by its Shaku or length (one Shaku = ~12 inches). Most of the swords brought back by the troopers were of the long blade variety, a Daito nearly two Shakus in length. Other Samurai swords brought back to the US include the Shingunto, Kyugunto, and buke-zukuri styles. All the samurai swords served an important purpose, whether used in battle or not. The samurai was and is always proud of his sword, a part of himself.
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Overall Length: 37-3/4" Axe Head length: 11-1/2" Axe Head thickness: 3/8", Axe Head Material: Forged tool steel, weathered and distressed finish, Dual Head ,false-edged, Handle Material: Solid wood, genuine leather-wrapped grip, cast metal parts with an antiqued brass plated finish., Plaque: Wood with silkscreened design, Officially Licensed Reproduction Reproduced from the actual prop axe used in the Lord of the Rings movies OUT OF PRODUCTION Very Limited Supply Left (more)
List Price:$624.99 Buy New: $442.40 You Save: $182.59 (29%) New (3) from $442.40
Overall Length: 49.00", Blade Length: 36.00", Handle Material: Ray Skin Covered w/Braided Cord, Carry System: Black Lacquered Wood, This item is not for sale in some specific zip codes (more)
This full-size replica of Herugrim: Sword of Theoden features a solid metal guard and pommel, genuine leather-wrapped grip and a 1/4 inch thick, tempered 420 stainless steel blade (false edged). Includes silkscreened wood display plaque and parchment certificate of authenticity., Measures 38-inches long. (more)
US $219.99
