Choosing a katana blade length: a guide for martial artists | Decision-making tool #Terressens

Decision-making tool

Choosing katana blade length: a guide for martial arts practitioners

#Terressens studio

Japanese martial arts, with their elegance and rich history, are often associated with the iconic katana. Choosing the blade length of your katana is a crucial decision for any martial arts practitioner, as it directly influences the weapon's handling, balance and performance. Here are a few tips to guide you in this choice.

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Nomenclature of a katana | Practical info #Terressens

The length of a katana blade is measured from the notch of the habaki to the tip of the blade.
To find out more: katana nomenclature

Your fighting style

Blade length influences the range of your attack and your fighting style. Shorter katanas, such as wakizashi, are suited to fast movements and confined spaces, while longer blades, like those of the standard katana, offer superior reach and are ideal for wider movements.

Your size and physical strength

Choose a blade that matches your size and strength. A blade that's too long could be difficult to handle for someone of shorter stature, while one that's too short could limit reach for a taller person. Make sure the blade matches your physique for optimum use.
Pour un bon entraînement, il est toutefois préférable d'utiliser une lame un peu plus courte que trop longue.

Your size Blade length Tsuka length
1.50 - 1.55 m
68.2 to 69.7 cm (2.25 to 2.30 尺)
22.7 cm (0.75 尺)
1.60 - 1.65 m
69.7 to 71.2 cm (2.3 to 2.35 尺)
24.2 cm (0.80 尺)
1.70 - 1.75 m
72.2 to 74.2 cm (2.40 to 2.45 尺)
25.8 cm (0.85 尺)
1.80 - 1.85 m
75.8 to 78.8 cm (2.50 to 2.60 尺)
27.2 cm (0.9 尺)
1.90 - 1.95 m
81.9 cm (2.70 尺)
28.8 cm (0.95 尺)
> 1.95 m
84.8 cm (2.80 尺)
30.2 cm (1 尺)

Shaku (尺) is an ancient Japanese unit of length measurement, equal to approximately 30.30 cm.
Recommended lengths are not universal. They may vary according to morphology and level of practice.

Practice objective

If you practice mainly iaijutsu (quick-draw techniques), a shorter blade may be more effective. For those focusing on kenjutsu ( katana fighting techniques), a standard-length blade may offer greater versatility.

Blade balance

In addition to length, consider blade balance. A well-balanced blade facilitates fluid movements and rapid transitions between attacks and defenses.

center of gravity or balance point of a katana

Lay a blank of the blade until it balances to find the center of gravity. This is usually 10 / 15 cm from the tsuba (鍔 guard). The further away it is, the greater the feeling of weight.

Choosing the length of your katana blade is a personal decision that depends on many individual factors. Take the time to explore different options, try them out in a controlled environment, and choose the one that best suits your fighting style and physique. A well-chosen katana will become a natural extension of your being, enhancing your Japanese martial arts experience.

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I'd like to share with you my crush on a katana I bought at the beginning of February (on special offer), the "dragon's blood" kirinketsu. A real jewel with its mother-of-pearl inlay. Not only is it magnificent, it's also very light, superbly balanced and easy to handle, with braiding that hasn't budged despite multi-day use. A quality forge, and perfect sharpening without fail. It's my favorite, "my soul".

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