Tachi vs Katana: What’s the Real Difference Between These Iconic Swords

The comparison of tachi vs katana highlights two of the best samurai swords, each used during different periods and adapted to the warfare strategies of their time.
Though they might look similar at first, each has unique features and were used differently by the samurai.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these iconic swords, focusing on their history, design, and how they were used in battle.

Historical background

Feature	Tachi	Katana
Period	Heian period (794-1185 AC)	Kamakura (1185-1333 AC)
Blade	Single edged – Deep Curve	Single edged – Slight Curve
Handle	Two-handed (with curve)	Two-handed
Length	Longer (76 to 110 cm) 30-43inch	Shorter (76 to 102 cm) 30-40inch
Design	Elaborate	Elaborate
Used by	Samurai Class	Samurai Class

The tachi emerged during Japan’s Heian Period (794–1185), a time of imperial dominance and aristocratic rule. Warfare during this era was characterized by open-field battles, often fought from horseback.

This led to the creation of the tachi, a sword designed for powerful downward slashing strikes from horseback with one hand, or on foot with two. It became the dominant weapon of the samurai class, as Japan’s warfare heavily relied on cavalry.

As warfare style transitioned from large-scale to more versatile fighting styles on foot, the Japanese katana gradually replaced the tachi and a larger type(nodachi) was also crafted.

This new type was optimized perfectly for foot usage, focusing on precise cutting, quicker draws, and improved adaptability in confined spaces. The way it carried changed, and its design became slightly smaller and less curved. By the Edo period (1603-1868), it became the samurai’s primary weapon, symbolizing both their skill and honor.

Design and Characteristics

Tachi

The tachi is characterized by a single-edged, deeply curved blade and a slightly curved handle (tsuka) designed for one or two handed use. The blade typically measures between 76 and 110 cm (30–43 inches) in length and is full tang (authentic types often feature maker’s signature on the tang).

One thing you will notice in most Japanese tachis is that decorations or fittings are often more elaborate and its appearance is more ceremonial looking. The handle is secured with mekugi pegs (one or two) and wrapped with rayskin (same) and silk ito. The scabbard is made of wood with special equipment in it to be hung, unlike the katana, which was slid through the belt of the kimono.

Katana

A katana is pretty much a tachi. Typically, they tend to have a slightly shorter blade and are less curved. To use a katana effectively, you will need to use both hands, as its technique focuses on slashing and thrusting. The scabbard is typically with no hanging loops and sometimes features a kurikata, a small knob on the side of the scabbard, designed to hold the sageo (cord). This allows it to be tucked securely into the obi (belt).

Similarities and Differences

Similarities

Both types are traditional Japanese swords used by samurai. They feature curved, single-edged blades made for cutting and hilt designed for two handed use. They go through similar forging techniques, sharpening processes and are made from the purest steel of the time(tamahagane). Additionally, their materials, fittings, securing methods, sometimes are often so similar that it can be hard to tell them apart.

So, how do you tell if the sword you are looking at is a katana or a tachi? Let’s take a closer look.

Difference Between Katana and Tachi

There are three main differences between katana and tachi:

1. Time period. The tachi was created in Heian period while katana in the Kamakura period.
2. Length and curvature. Tachi is slightly longer and has a deeper curve.
3. How they were used. The tachi was mainly used on horseback, while the katana was used on foot.

I’m saying three main characteristics because these are the most important features that sets them apart. Beyond these three, there are other details that can help you identify whether the sword you are looking at is a samurai katana or a tachi even though these are not exclusive.

1. How They are Displayed

Honestly, it’s difficult to determine which sword a blade belongs to, as there aren’t many visible differences. It’s hard to tell with the naked eye unless you have experience.

Usually they are displayed in the same way they were worn. So, tachi was worn with the cutting edge facing down while the katana facing up. This is how a katana is displayed following tradition and how to identify just from a display perspective.

2. Extra details

The main detail exclusive to tachi is the hangers, or tachi-ashi, which can either be made of steel or brass, or crafted from braided cords, as seen in certain variations. They also include a unique pommel or kashira that often feature a small loop. The scabbard is adorned with ornate metal fittings in the end (kojiri) that are decorative and to protect the end of the scabbard as well. Katanas doesn’t include these details in most cases.

3. Tsuba

Both include elaborate and functional guards, however the tachi guard tend to be more ceremonial looking. A typical shape used for a tachi is Aoi-gata, similar to image below. If you see a Japanese sword with this tsuba is more likely to be a tachi sword.

Is a Tachi Better than a Katana?

In my opinion, no. Their differences, whether in battle or design, are so minimal that they wouldn’t make a significant difference in combat. So, it’s not about which is better overall but which suits the specific use case.

Last Words

In modern times, authentic samurai swords hold high value and often come with a significant price tag, sometimes extending to thousands of dollars due to their iconic status. You will find their practical uses in martial arts, often practiced in dojo, unique home decor or even home defense. If you own a samurai sword, you are one of us. Remember to clean it after each use to keep it in the best condition.

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