What is a stick with a blade called?

A stick with a blade attached is commonly referred to as a "polearm" or a "pole weapon." Polearms are a class of weapons that feature a long shaft or handle with a blade, spike, or other striking surface attached to one end. They were historically used in combat and warfare for their extended reach, leverage, and versatility.There are various types of polearms, each with its own design and characteristics. Some examples of polearms include:Spear: A spear is a polearm with a pointed blade or spearhead affixed to one end of the shaft. Spears were used for thrusting and striking from a distance.Halberd: A halberd features a hooked blade at the top of the shaft, often combined with an axe blade and a spike. It provided a combination of cutting, piercing, and hooking capabilities.Glaive: A glaive is a polearm with a single-edged blade attached to the end of the shaft. It was primarily used for slashing and cutting.Naginata: The naginata is a Japanese polearm with a curved blade mounted on a long staff. It was traditionally used by samurai and warrior monks.These are just a few examples of the various polearms that have been used throughout history. The specific design and terminology of a polearm can vary depending on cultural and historical contexts.

Are these naginata full-tang construction?

Yes, every naginata in this collection uses full-tang construction, meaning the steel extends from the blade tip through the entire length of the handle. The tang is secured with mekugi pins and wrapped tightly with traditional cord or synthetic ito to ensure a solid, rattle-free fit. Full-tang design is considered the gold standard for structural integrity in Japanese blades because it distributes stress evenly across the whole assembly rather than concentrating it at a joint. For collectors, full-tang also signals that the piece was built to the same structural standards as historically functional examples, which adds both authenticity and long-term durability to the display piece.

How should I display and maintain a marble naginata long-term?

A horizontal wall mount or a vertical floor stand both work well for naginata, though horizontal mounting distributes weight more evenly across the shaft. Keep the piece out of direct sunlight to prevent UV fading of the lacquer. For blade care, apply a thin coat of choji oil every two to three months using a soft cloth, wiping in one direction from spine to edge. The marble-finish saya can be gently wiped with a dry microfiber cloth; avoid chemical cleaners, which may cloud the lacquer layers. In humid climates, consider adding silica gel packets near the display area to keep ambient moisture below 55 percent, which protects both the steel from oxidation and the lacquered wood from swelling.

What does full tang mean in a naginata?

In a naginata, full tang means the steel of the blade extends as one continuous piece down through the entire length of the handle shaft, rather than stopping at the collar or fitting only partway into the handle. This construction method creates a structurally unified piece where blade and handle share a single steel core. For display and collection purposes, full tang construction ensures the piece maintains its assembled integrity over time — there's no separate blade section that can loosen from the shaft with age or humidity changes. It's also the construction standard that most closely reflects how high-quality historical naginata were built, which matters to collectors focused on authenticity of form.

How big is a naginata?

Updated Oct 2021 523 Viewed

A naginata is a traditional Japanese polearm that features a long wooden shaft with a curved blade attached to the end. The size of a naginata can vary, but typically it has an overall length ranging from around 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters).

The blade portion of a naginata typically measures between 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters) in length. The curved blade is mounted on the end of the pole and is designed for cutting and thrusting attacks.

The length of the shaft or pole of a naginata can vary depending on the specific design, intended use, and personal preferences of the wielder. Naginatas used for training or martial arts practice may have shorter poles, while ceremonial or historical replicas might have longer ones.

The naginata was historically used by samurai and warrior monks in Japan. It was known for its versatility and effectiveness in both close combat and in keeping opponents at a distance. The length of the naginata allowed for extended reach, while the curved blade offered cutting power and versatility.

It's important to note that while there are general guidelines for the size of a naginata, variations can exist based on historical period, regional styles, and individual preferences.

In summary, a naginata typically has an overall length ranging from 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters), with the blade portion measuring between 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters). The size can vary based on design, use, and personal preferences.

How big is a naginata?

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How big is a naginata?

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