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During the period when samurai warriors were in charge, they used different types of swords. They carried the tachi on horseback, the odachi for large battles, and the katana for everyday combat.
Samurai often carried two or three weapons at the same time. One of them was the duo of the wakizashi and katana. In this article, we’ll explore how these two swords were used, their similarities, and key differences.
Historical Background
| Feature | Wakizashi | Katana |
| Period | Muromachi (1336–1573 AC) | Kamakura (1185-1333 AC) |
| Blade | Single edged – Curved | Single edged – Curved |
| Handle | One-handed | Two-handed |
| Length | Shorter (30–60 cm) | Longer (76 to 102 cm) |
| Design | Simple or Elaborate | Elaborate |
| Used by | Samurai class | Samurai class |
The katana emerged in Japan during the late 14th century as samurai began adapting their fighting techniques to changing battlefield conditions. It was designed for effectiveness in close combat, particularly against armor. The curved blade allowed for faster draws and fluid strikes, which suited the quick, decisive movements required in battle.
The wakizashi appeared during the Muromachi period as a shorter type and around the Edo period it became a complementary weapon along with katana and tanto. It was intended for situations where the katana was not practical, such as indoor confrontations or as a secondary option. Samurai carried both blades together, so they were fully armed for every combat scenarios.
Design and Characteristics
Katana
The katana is a traditional Japanese sword known for its long, curved blade measuring about 76 to 102 centimeters (30 to 40 inches). It features a single, razor-sharp edge designed specifically for cutting. Forged using special techniques, the blade is both strong and flexible, often displaying a nice natural hamon in the edge.
The sword typically features an intricately decorated tsuba (guard) and a handle designed for a two-handed grip.
Wakizashi
The wakizashi is a Japanese shortsword with an overall length of 30 to 60 cm. It has a slightly curved blade and features a full tang construction.
Like the katana, it is secured with mekugi pegs, but usually only one due to its shorter handle. The tsuba (guard) is generally simpler and smaller, though it can also be intricately designed, while the tsuka (handle) is designed for a one-handed grip.
Katana vs Wakizashi Similarities
The katana and wakizashi share many similarities due to their common origins in samurai culture. Both swords feature single-edged, curved blades designed primary for cutting. Both are forged using(tamahagane) traditional Japanese techniques that produce strong, razor-sharp and flexible blades.
They include full tang construction and secured similarly. The handles are wrapped with the same fittings. Each sword includes a guard (tsuba), often adorned with decorative designs. Additional components like the blade collar (habaki), handle collar (fuchi), and pommel (kashira) are common to both.
Differences
There are three main differences between the katana and wakizashi:
- Size
- Usage
- Handling
A katana is always longer and designed to be used with two hands, while the wakizashi is shorter and meant for one-handed use. This also changed their usage in combat.
Instead of being used separately, they were often carried together in pairs (daisho), where the katana was the main battle weapon used for both slashing and thrusting, and the wakizashi served as a backup weapon for close-quarters combat and indoor settings where space was limited.
Another difference I see between them is that wakizashi often features a simpler tsuba, and often smaller, however this is not exclusive.
Usage
We’ve pretty much said everything about their usage, but it’s important to note that the wakizashi was much more necessary and effective than you might think. In this time there were no large battles. Samurai often operated in confined spaces, such as within castles, narrow streets etc.. and a wakizashi type was much faster and easy to use. During this period, commoners were also allowed to carry a legal-length ko-wakizashi. They made a ideal tool for everyday tasks and self defense.
In contrast, katanas were more about samurai status. They were used in open areas or against well-prepared armored opponents.
In modern times you will find their uses in martial arts, often in dojo where you can practice different techniques with both swords. They also serve as excellent display pieces, either as a set or individually. Additionally, they are effective tools for self-defense in today’s world. In our article, Best Swords for Self-Defense, the wakizashi ranked among the top five offering many advantages, while the katana made it to the top ten.
Last Words
While they share similarities in design and craftsmanship, their differences in size and usage highlight their unique roles of their time. Whether admired for their historical importance or practical applications, their legacy endures as a blend of functionality and cultural heritage.
Read: The Best Samurai Swords in 2024
Want to see more specific comparisons? We’ve got a few others for you.
