Special offers valid until July 31 X

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.

shadow screen curve
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.
For a good workout, however, it's better to use a slightly shorter blade than one that's too long.

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.

How do I care for a katana blade?

Practical info #Terressens

Maintenance of a sword or saber is necessary to prevent oxidation (rust). Used oil must be removed and replaced ...see more

Katana metallurgy glossary

Practical info #Terressens

Quick dictionary for choosing your katana: homogeneous steel, Maru, damascus, 1045, 1060, true tempering line, Hamon...

Katana nomenclature

Practical info #Terressens

Here are the main terms used in the descriptive vocabulary of katanas. We've selected the most important ones for you, listing the words ...view more

History of the katana: its evolution through the centuries

Magazine #Terressens

The katana, or Japanese sword, is a traditional white weapon steeped in history and legend. Both a weapon and a work of art, it ...view more


EW
Eric Walack ()
Trustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Reviews
High-quality katana
Very high quality Katana, well delivered

AL
Alizee.L ()
Trustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Reviews
Very satisfied
Very satisfied, the person who takes care of this site is very responsive, responds very quickly to our questions and requests, gives advice for engraving, knows his work perfectly. The engraving and delivery were very fast. My son is delighted with his katana. Thank you very much

CL
customer ()
Trustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Reviews
I was very pleasantly surprised by...
I was very pleasantly surprised by the seriousness and availability of the team. The follow-up of the order, the answers to questions, and the management of customer relations are really top notch. Thanks again for your professionalism!

CY
cyril ()
Trustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Reviews
As satisfied as ever with the equipment...
I'm as satisfied as ever with the equipment we received, and the logistics, which were beyond reproach. All in safety.

AL
ALBERTI ()
Trustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Reviews
This is the 2nd time I have ordered from...
This is the 2nd time I ordered from them the first time I ordered a Japanese sword the samurai warrior it arrived quickly and in good condition the second time I ordered a wakisachi a week ago It arrived damaged I made by customer service with photos and they sent me a copy in the day thank you again I love what you do

More

Secure payment: your choice
Banque Populaire du Sud
Credit cards accepted by Banque Populaire du Sud

PayPalwith or without account (CB)
PayPal

Scalapay: 3 times free of charge
Pay in 3 free instalments with Scalapay

Cheque or bank transfer (contact us)

Trust
. French company
. Integrated warehousing and logistics
. No customs duties
. Studio and engraving workshop
. Shipment within 48 working hours
. Delivery in mainland France and Europe (Euro zone: Germany, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Croatia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia); D.O.M. / T.O.M.: on quotation. Please contact us for further information.
. 14-day right of withdrawal

Delivery
Parcel tracking #Terressens
Your Colissimo tracking space allows you to track and manage the delivery of your parcels.

Useful links
Customer reviews
Terms & Conditions
Frequently asked questions (F.A.Q.)
Cancellation form
Personal data R.G.P.D.

Contact us

Send