Katana Nagasa
The nagasa (長さ) is the length of the blade, excluding the hilt. It is usually given in shaku, a unit of measurement equivalent to about 11.81" (30 centimeters). The nagasa is also used to calculate the katana sori.
- The blade length, or nagasa, of a katana typically spans from approximately 23.62" to more than 35.43" (60 cm to above 90 cm).
- The nagasa of a wakizashi generally falls within the range of 23.62" to 35.43" (30 to 60 cm), while a tanto's nagasa is usually under 11.81" (30 cm).
- For a kodachi, the nagasa is typically between 15.75" and 35.43" (40 to 60 cm).
What is The Best Nagasa Lenght
The length of a katana, also known as "nagasa," is known to fluctuate based on the sword's expected application. For instance, a thrusting katana may feature a more compact blade than its cutting counterpart. Yet, in most instances, katanas possessing lengthier blades are deemed superior.
The katana, a paramount weapon in Japan's historical narrative, has long inspired heated discussions and mythology concerning its optimal length. Some propose that the quintessential katana nagasa spans around 2 shaku or approximately 60 cm (23.62 inches). Conversely, others argue that a truly flawless katana blade should be even more extended, nearing 3 shaku or 90 cm (35.43 inches).
Regardless of the consensus on the perfect katana nagasa, one thing is apparent, the blade length significantly influences the katana's design and efficacy. Whether you prefer shorter or longer katanas, the nagasa contributes vitally to these swords' deadly prowess. A longer blade confers increased mobility and cutting power against multiple adversaries, making them more respected.
Often portrayed as the archetypal Japanese sword, the katana's nagasa critically contributes to its iconic standing. The blade length has become emblematic of the samurai spirit, with longer blades typically associated with higher prestige and power.
Lately, there's been an inclination towards producing katanas with longer blades, a trend perhaps propelled by the growing enthusiasm for these weapons among collectors. Yet, it's crucial to acknowledge that katana nagasa isn't solely an aesthetic concern; the blade length considerably affects the weapon's performance.
Whether your katana search is driven by self-defense needs, a collector's passion, or a desire to embellish your walls, the nagasa is an essential consideration. The plethora of katana nagasa available might seem overwhelming, but by acknowledging your katana's intended use and desired blade length, you can streamline your choices and find the ideal katana that suits your needs.
NAGASA LENGTH RECOMMENDATION BASED ON YOUR HEIGHT
| Swordsman's height (cm | in) | Nagasa length (cm | in) | Shaku |
| 150 | 4'11'' | 66.7 | 26.2" | 2.20 |
| 155 | 5'1'' |
68.2 | 26.8'' |
2.25 |
| 160 | 5'3'' |
69.7 | 27.4'' |
2.30 |
| 165 | 5'5'' |
71.2 | 28'' |
2.35 |
| 170 | 5'7'' | 72.7 | 28.6'' | 2.40 |
| 175 | 5'9'' | 74.2 | 29.2'' | 2.45 |
| 180 | 5'11'' | 75.8 | 29.8'' | 2.50 |
| 185 | 6'1'' | 77.3 | 30.4'' | 2.55 |
| 190 | 6'3'' | 78.8 | 31'' | 2.60 |
