What is an uchigatana
The uchigatana (打刀) is a type of Japanese sword characterized by its long, curved blade. It can be held with one or two hands. Made during the Muromachi period, its blade is strongly curved near the tsuka (handle) and is between 60 cm and 90 cm.
It was used by the samurai class of feudal Japan and was often their primary weapon. The uchigatana was known for its speed and cutting ability, and was said to be able to cut through armor and even metal helmets. Today, the uchigatana is still popular among swordsmen and collectors, and is considered one of the most iconic Japanese swords.
History of the uchigatana
It is believed that uchigatana was created during the Kamakura period of Japan (1185 to 1333). During this period marked by the reign of the Kamakura shogun, Japan was undergoing many Mongolian attacks that tried to invade the country. In response to the Mongol forces, the Japanese government developed new and more effective weapons to gain advantage on the battlefield. Thus, the uchigatana was created. The uchigatana is considered to be one of the most efficient cutting swords ever made.
The uchigatana's design allowed for incredibly powerful cuts and slashes, which could easily dismember or even decapitate an opponent. The sword was also relatively light and easy to wield, making it ideal for close-quarters combat.
Due to its effectiveness in battle, the uchigatana became one of the most popular swords used by samurai during the feudal period. It continued to be used as a primary weapon by Japanese warriors up until the Meiji Period (1868-1912), when the sword was replaced by more modern firearms.
Is uchigatana a katana
The etymology of the word "Uchigatana" allows us to know more about this Japanese sword. "Uchi" meaning "to strike" and "gatana" meaning "sword". The visual difference between an uchigatana and a katana may be difficult to perceive. The uchigatna is considered to be one of the ancestors of the katana.
What is the difference between a katana and a Uchigatana
As seen previously, the uchigatana was designed in emergency to strike-back Mongolian attacks during the Kamakura period. This Japanese sword had to be cheap in resources and easy to make. The main difference between a katana and the uchigatana is the quality of the materials used to make it. Unlike the uchigatana, the katana is a Japanese sword made with premium materials by skilled smiths. The making of a katana requires much more time, skill and expensive materials.
