There are many types of Japanese swords that differ by size, shape, field of application and method of manufacture.
Some of the more commonly known types of Japanese swords are the Katana, Wakizashi, and Tachi.
The following are types of Japanese swords:
- Chokuto(Straight sword)
A straight single edged sword that was produced prior to the 10th century, and without differential hardening or folding.
- Tsurugi/Ken(Sword)
A straight two edged sword that was produced prior to the 10th century, and may be without differential hardening or folding.
- Tachi(Big Sword)
A sword that is generally longer and more curved than the later katana, with curvature centered from the middle or towards the tang, and often including the tang. Tachi were worn suspended, with the edge downward. The tachi was in vogue before the 15th century.
- Kodachi(Small Big Sword)
A shorter version of the tachi, but with similar mounts and intended use, mostly found in the 13th century or earlier.
Very large tachi, some in excess of 100 cm, and usually a blade of the late 14th century.
- Uchigatana
A development from the tachi in the 15th century. Worn with the edge upwards in the obi.
- Katate-uchi(One Handed)
A short type of uchigatana developed in the 16th century, with short tang, intended for one handed use. One of the forerunners of the wakizashi.
- Katana(Sword)
A general term for the traditional sword with a curved blade longer than 60 cm (there is no upper length limit but generally they are shorter than 80 cm), worn with the edge upwards in the sash. Developed from the uchigatana and the sword of the samurai class of the Edo period (1600s to late 19th century).
