Swords have been used in many combats in ancient times and the carry with them a history that is interesting to know. The Japanese swords are of different types that have been changing from one century to another. The most popular types of Japanese swords include the Taichi, The Katana, The Nodachi or field swords, Shin Gunto Swords, Tanto, Namidashi, Aikuchi and not to forget, the short Wakizashi Sword. Samurai Swords History suggests that the Katanas were the primary weapons that were used in defense in warfare by the Samurais. While the length of the Katana kept changing from one century to other, but, on an average the katana was a sword that was about 60-73cms in length and they replaced the Tashi swords that were carried with the blade pointed downwards as the battle conditions in the 15th and the 16th century, demanded faster response time. The Samurais of higher rank also carried with them a shorter sword called the Wakizashi Swords. Wakizashi swords The Wakizashi Swords were smaller in length and was carried as a backup sword. It was worn along with the Katana by the Samurai rank even after the end of major periods of war. When the Wakizashi were worn together by members of high rank ii was called Daisho. As the name suggests they were used as side swords that can be drawn and wielded instantaneously. These traditional Japanese swords were on an average 50cm in length. Wakizashi’sthough small is better because it is more practical to use • In close-quarter fighting • It can be carried anywhere while the katanas have to be left with the servant or a page • Wakizashi swords were similar to pistols of modern times and could be carried as a weapon for defence anywhere and anytime • The Shorter Wakizashi swords made it possible for the warrior to fight with two weapons at the same time. • The Wakizashi is suitable for use even indoors as it requires very little wielding space. • The Wakizashi is of the legal length that a person is allowed to carry. So the wakizashi’s could be carried by merchants for self- defense while traveling to protect them from bandits. • Wakizashi swords were used to behead opponents when they were defeated • They were ideal swords to commit Seppuku a ritual suicide and is known as the Honor blade The Wakizashi adds up as a weapon that offered protection anytime and anywhere and one that was easy to carry. In the modern context they will be easy to handle, ship, display and use for practice indoors.
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