![]() ![]() Viking period swords, for instance, were frequently made with a hard, carbon steel edge and a softer iron core. Many European swords were made in similar ways. In Japan traditional swordsmiths are highly revered and the multi-step process of producing the highest quality blades is imbued with deep cultural and religious significance.īut this differentiation is less clear cut than it has been popularly understood. Japanese swords are traditionally made in a famously complex manner, utilizing several different types of steel and iron of varying carbon-content, forge welded together to create blades with a very hard edge and a soft and flexible core. Perhaps, then, the primary difference between Japanese and European swords is in the manner of their production. So, this differentiation may not be particularly useful in discussing the differences between these types of swords.Ĭustom Grosse Messer after German Original by Arms & Armor Inc. Of course, there were double-edged Japanese swords such as the Tsurugi, and single-edged, curved European swords such as the Messer or Falcion. The most visible difference between Japanese swords and European swords is that single-edged swords were more prevalent in medieval Japan, while double-edged swords were more prevalent in medieval Europe. Both Japanese and European swords are great. Dating back at least to the fantasy program The Highlander, and accentuated by the popularity of Japanese anime cartoons and various Internet forums, traditional Japanese swords have acquired a reputation as "the best" type of sword. This is further complicated by the cultural embrace within certain communities in the West of a kind of cult of the Katana. This means that most questions about which kind of sword is 'better' are tied up with much larger ideas of national or cultural importance. From the medieval European knight, to the Japanese Samurai, swords are a symbol of nobility.Ī 16th century Wakazashi by Bizen Takamitsu, famous smith, photo taken professionally by Eric Bossick for Unique Japan ![]() Being more expensive to produce than other antique weapons like spears, swords represent an elite category of warrior in many cultures. swords represent a romantic martial spirit. Swords are particularly important pieces of technology that are a critical part of many cultures self-conception. This question is fraught because pretty much every culture that has a history of using or producing swords has a cultural mythology built around them. The main question most folks are getting at, however, is "how and why are these types of swords different?".Īn Ulfberht Viking sword, like those in this NOVA documentary. ![]() These questions run the gamut from the unabashedly technical, "does the presence of cementite needles in Viking swords imply large scale trade with East Asia?", to the silly, "Why are katanas soooooooooooo much more awesome than medieval swords?". shows like our anime katanas.As sword makers we are often asked about the differences between European and Japanese swords. Browse our collection, design your own sword, or discover replicas from your favorite movies and T.V. We make shopping for a katana sword simple with tons of katana guides, pictures, easy check-out, and friendly customer service. Whether you are looking to add to your samurai sword collection or you’re ready to rush into battle, any of our quality katanas will serve your purpose. Since each katana we create is made of hardened steel, even the unsharpened blades must be treated with care. Before you add a sword to your cart, simply select if you wish it to be unsharpened or hand sharpened. All of our katana are fully functional and can be hand sharpened to a razor edge if desired. We use top quality materials, including premium 10 high carbon steel to craft completely authentic samurai katana swords. You can even customize your katana sword color and design through our build your own katana option. When you purchase one of our hand forged katana swords, you are able to freely select the design of the ito (handle wrap), same’gawa (under wrap), saya (sheath), and sageo (sheath cord). Swords of Northshire is known for our made-to-order katanas and huge selection. Explore our selection of katanas today to find the perfect one for you. Wear your katana blade with a shorter wakizashi on an obi (traditional Japanese belt) to create the traditional samurai pairing called a daisho. Each katana sword is handcrafted in the historical Shinto style of samurai swords with intricate details and unique designs. It’s distinct appearance with a single, curved blade and long grip for two hands is the most recognized of the historical Japanese swords.
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