The mune is the back or spine of the blade of a katana or other Japanese sword. It runs along the centerline of the blade, opposite the cutting edge (ha), and is usually thicker and wider than the ha. Mune function: The mune serves several important functions in the construction and use of a katana. It […]
The nagasa of a katana refers to the length of the blade, measured from the tip of the blade (kissaki) to the notch at the base of the blade (habaki). The length of the nagasa can vary depending on the era and the specific design of the katana, but it is generally between 60 and 73 […]
The Samegawa of a katana is the traditional wrapping material made from shark or ray skin. It is wrapped around the tsuka (handle) of the katana to provide a non-slip grip for the wielder. The samegawa is usually wrapped around a layer of tsuka-ito (silk or cotton cord) and under the tsuba (handguard) of the […]
The saya is the scabbard of the katana, the traditional Japanese sword. The saya serves as a protective sheath for the katana blade when not in use and also allows the sword to be carried safely. Materials : The saya is usually made of light wood, such as magnolia or Japanese cypress, which are both […]
The seppa is a small metal spacer used on both sides of the tsuba (handguard) of a katana. It serves as a buffer between the tsuba and the habaki (blade collar) to prevent wear and damage to the sword during use. Material: The seppa is usually made of brass or copper, and its shape and […]
The shinogi is a prominent ridge that runs the length of the blade of a katana. It separates the flat sides of the blade, or hira, from the cutting edge and helps to strengthen the blade by distributing force and absorbing shock. The shinogi is one of the characteristics of the katana, as it distinguishes […]
The sori of a katana is the curvature of the blade from tip to base. It is an important feature of the sword, which has both functional and aesthetic significance. The sori of a katana is usually a gentle curve that starts at the tip of the blade and gradually increases towards the base. This curve […]
The yokote of a katana is a straight line that separates the tip of the blade from the rest of the blade. It runs horizontally across the blade, perpendicular to the edge, and is one of the characteristics of the katana. The yokote is created during the forging process, where the sword maker heats the blade […]