Katana

Katana_-_Motoshige

Samurai_with_tachi

Nakago_no_katana_Met_2007.478.3

Master-Swordsmith-Goro-Masamune-Ukiyo-e

Katana,_Sōshū_Masamune_(Ishida_Masamune)

Katana_-_Kiriha_Sadamune

Katana_Muramasa

Japanese sword

Katana

Type	Sword
Place of origin	Japan
In service	Muromachi period to present
Used by	Samurai, Ninja
Wars	Various
Designer
Designed
Manufacturer

A katana (刀) is a traditional Japanese sword characterized by its distinctive curved, slender, single-edged blade, circular or squared guard, and long grip to accommodate two hands. The katana is renowned for its sharpness and cutting ability, making it a symbol of the samurai warrior class.

History

The katana originated during the Muromachi period (1336–1573) and became the primary weapon of the samurai. It evolved from earlier Japanese swords such as the tachi and was designed for quick, precise strikes. The katana's design allowed for both cutting and thrusting, making it versatile in combat.

Construction

The katana is traditionally made using a specialized forging process that involves folding and hammering the steel multiple times to create a strong, resilient blade. The blade is typically made from a combination of high-carbon and low-carbon steel, which provides a balance of hardness and flexibility. The process of creating a katana includes several steps:

• Tamahagane: The raw steel used to make the blade.
• Forging: The steel is heated, folded, and hammered to remove impurities and create layers.
• Quenching: The blade is heated and then rapidly cooled to harden the edge.
• Polishing: The blade is polished to a sharp edge and to reveal the distinctive hamon (temper line).

Components

A katana consists of several key components:

• Blade (刃, ha): The main cutting part of the sword.
• Guard (鍔, tsuba): The handguard, which protects the wielder's hands.
• Handle (柄, tsuka): The grip, usually wrapped in ray skin and silk or cotton.
• Scabbard (鞘, saya): The sheath that holds the blade when not in use.

Cultural Significance

The katana is more than just a weapon; it is a cultural icon in Japan. It represents the spirit and honor of the samurai and is often associated with the bushido code. The katana is also a symbol of craftsmanship and artistry, with many blades considered national treasures.

Modern Use

Today, the katana is used in various martial arts, including kendo, iaido, and kenjutsu. It is also a popular collector's item and is often featured in Japanese media, such as anime and manga.

Related Pages

• Samurai
• Tachi
• Ninja
• Bushido
• Japanese swordsmithing
• Kendo
• Iaido
• Kenjutsu