Overall Length: 40 in

Blade Length: 28 in

Handle Length: 10 in

Scabbard Handle: 30 in

Blade Width: 1.27 in

Blade Thickness: 0.27 in

Weight: 2.45 lb

The ninjatō is a short, single-edged japanese sword that's largely shrouded in mystery. Often portrayed as the preferred weapon of the ninja, and used by modern martial arts practitioners like Masaaki Hatsumi and Stephen Hayes, it's become widely recognized both in Japan and elsewhere. Nonetheless, there's a still a certain mysticism surrounding the ninjatō.

Because of its unknown origins, there's little known about the ninjatō's usage. And any reports on the sword's usage are subjective at best. With that said, the ninjatō -- when displayed in recent media -- is depicted in a similar way as the katana. Although the two swords differ, the ninjatō was also wielded and used like the katana, according to portrayals in recent media.

So, is the ninjatō a real sword or just another myth? It's safe to say that the ninjatō is currently a real sword in the sense that several companies produce and sell it. However, there's still no definitive evidence indicating that it existed during feudal Japan. Perhaps the evidence was lost over the years, or maybe the sword didn't appear until recently. That question remains open to debate, though the fact remains that the modern-day ninjatō is a real sword.

What Makes the ninjato sword Special

The neighboring Iga and Kouga clans of feudal Japan were bitter enemies. Their ongoing battle went on for centuries. These are warring families that have been mentioned in Japanese literature.

These warriors use this sword to fight each other. However, different swords were made for each clan. It was easy to know which clan attack the other because of the sword that they use. The blade of the Ninjato is hand forged in high carbon steel.

Using the clay tempering method this sword is hardened after the forging process. This sword is fully functional. It is said to be similar to the Samurai sword.

These swords may not be that long but, they are sharp. This sword is light weight and yet durable. Because some were created with great designs these can be used for displays in home.

Even some might view these swords as inferior to the Katana, it can be useful otherwise Ninja will not use this. Added to the fact that Ninja were not recognize to belong to any social class in Japan. Practicing and training with weapons is a must especially for Ninja.

Some sword maker made wooden swords that look like the original. However, these training weapons can only be used with certain limitations, This can advance the skills of a warrior. To be considered special the ninja sword must be sharp and fast. It must have good penetrating powers especially when used during cutting and thrusting practices in martial arts.

The ninjato was primarily a slashing sword, although it might have been used for thrusting and stabbing as well. The shorter sword blade coupled with the long scabbard allowed it to be drawn from the scabbard more quickly than the opponent could anticipate. The ninjato would have been more suited for indoor use than the Katana, because it required less swinging room. A straight bladed ninjato would be more suitable for stabbing and thrusting, making it the more logical weapon to use compared to a slashing weapon, while trying to assassinate a Samurai. As the Samurai used lamellar armor that was better at defending against slashing attacks than it was against thrusting attacks.

Since the Samurai rarely fought against short swords it was easy for Ninjas to use the cover of night to trick the Samurai into believing that the Ninja was wielding a long Katana. Also, similar to a cutlass, the Ninjato's short size made it superior in indoor combat to the longer Katana.

Books and other written materials have described a number of possible ways to use the sword including "fast draw techniques centered around drawing the sword and cutting as a simultaneous defensive or attacking action", with "a thrust fencing technique", and with a "reverse grip".

The ninjatō differs from the katana in several ways. it features a straight blade, whereas the japanese katana features a distinct curved blade.

According to Stephen Hayes, American martial arts practitioner and writer, the ninjatō featured a straight blade because it was easier for samurai warriors to forge themselves than a curved blade. Hayes further explains that samurai warriors would create ninjatō swords using slabs of steel or iron, after which they would grind the edge with a stone.

These swords are sold today for decorative or use in practicing martial arts. The Ninjato swords are created with a short or long blade and some people prefer regular Kissaki, but some prefer it with Kiriha Zukuri Kissaki.

When practicing with the swords because of martial arts, using the sword this way cannot be avoided. With the right maker and sword it could be a great one. You will not regret paying for the price because the Ninjato is well worth it in every sense of the word.

A word of warning though because these swords can be very sharp in case you opt in for that option, so handling the sword with care is highly recommended . Slicing soda cans will not be a problem because you are facing an inanimate enemy.

There are modern sword makers who pay tribute to the traditional sword but, is interpreted in a Hollywood Ninja sword kind of way. Some of these are tastefully done.

Craftsmen who are good at decorating can still create a piece of art that will catch your undivided attentions especially if you like swords. A true test of knowing if you got the right ninja sword would be to use it in cutting and thrusting. This must be both accomplished with great effectiveness.

These functions are the measurement on whether this version can be at par with the battle ready ones. There are still some remaining respectable sellers out there who sell swords that are worth the price. This proves once and for all that this ninja sword did exist.