What is a short Katana called?

A short katana is commonly referred to as a "wakizashi." The wakizashi is a traditional Japanese sword that is shorter in length compared to the standard katana. It typically has a blade length between 30 and 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches), although exact measurements can vary.The wakizashi was traditionally worn alongside the katana by samurai as a backup weapon or for indoor use where a longer sword would be impractical. It served as a symbol of a samurai's social status and was also utilized in close-quarter combat.While the wakizashi is shorter than a katana, it shares similar design characteristics, including a curved, single-edged blade and a handle wrapped with traditional materials like tsuka-ito (cotton cord). It may also feature a tsuba (handguard) and other decorative elements.The combination of the katana and wakizashi worn together is known as "daishō," which means "big and small" in Japanese. The daishō represented the social status and warrior identity of the samurai. The katana was the longer and primary weapon, while the wakizashi was the shorter companion sword.It's important to note that the term "wakizashi" specifically refers to a short katana in the context of traditional Japanese swords. In other cultures or sword traditions, a shorter sword may have different names or classifications.

What is a double edge Katana called?

A double-edged sword with a similar design to a katana, but featuring blades on both ends of the hilt, is often referred to as a "naginata sword." The naginata sword is a polearm weapon originating in feudal Japan, typically consisting of a long wooden shaft with a curved, single-edged blade attached to one end. The blade of a naginata can be double-edged, providing cutting and thrusting capabilities, though the overall design and usage differ from that of a traditional katana.

What is the longest sword in the world called?

The longest sword in the world is known as the "Ōdachi" or "Nodachi." The terms Ōdachi and Nodachi are used interchangeably, and both refer to an exceptionally long Japanese sword.The Ōdachi typically had a blade length of around 3 to 4 feet (approximately 90 to 120 centimeters) or even longer. These swords were characterized by their extended reach and were primarily used by samurai warriors during battles or in ceremonial contexts.Due to their size and weight, Ōdachi swords were typically wielded with two hands. They were used for powerful sweeping strikes, cutting down multiple opponents, or dismounting riders. The long reach of the Ōdachi allowed samurai to maintain distance from their foes and strike from a position of advantage.The term Ōdachi translates to "big/great sword," reflecting its exceptional length compared to other traditional Japanese swords like the katana or tachi. However, it's worth noting that the Ōdachi is not commonly used in modern martial arts or combat due to its impracticality in close-quarters fighting or the confined spaces of indoor environments. Instead, it has become more of a historical and ceremonial curiosity.

What is the long katana called?

The long katana is often referred to as an ōdachi or nodachi. Both terms are used to describe a type of Japanese sword with an exceptionally long blade. The terms ōdachi and nodachi are sometimes used interchangeably, though some people differentiate between them based on certain characteristics.The ōdachi generally refers to a large sword with a blade length exceeding 90 centimeters (35 inches) and often surpassing 120 centimeters (47 inches). It was primarily used by skilled samurai warriors on the battlefield for its extended reach and cutting power. The ōdachi is also sometimes called a "great sword" or "long sword."On the other hand, the term nodachi can be used more broadly to describe any type of field sword or large sword. It can encompass swords with various lengths and shapes, including those that fall within the ōdachi category.While there can be some variation in the use of these terms, both ōdachi and nodachi generally refer to longer-than-average katanas or other large swords. These weapons were less common compared to standard-sized katanas and were primarily utilized by skilled warriors in specific historical contexts.

What Is the Longest Katana Called?

Updated Mar 2026

The longest traditional Japanese sword is known as the Ōdachi (大太刀), also called the Nodachi (野太刀). These legendary oversized blades represent the pinnacle of Japanese swordsmithing ambition — massive, awe-inspiring weapons that pushed the limits of both the forge and the warrior who carried them.

Ōdachi vs. Nodachi — Is There a Difference?

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction:

Ōdachi (大太刀) literally means "great sword" and is the broader term for any exceptionally long Japanese sword.
Nodachi (野太刀) translates to "field sword," referring specifically to oversized blades carried into open battlefield combat.

In modern usage, both terms typically refer to the same category of extra-long Japanese sword.

How Long Is an Ōdachi?

An Ōdachi blade typically measures 90 cm to over 100 cm (35–40+ inches) in length — significantly longer than a standard katana. Some ceremonial or dedicatory Ōdachi made as offerings to shrines and temples were truly extraordinary in size, with certain historical examples exceeding 220 cm (87 inches) in total length. These shrine swords were never intended for combat but served as powerful spiritual offerings.

How Was the Ōdachi Used in Battle?

Due to its extreme length and weight, the Ōdachi was one of the most physically demanding weapons in the Japanese arsenal:

It was too long to be worn at the waist like a standard katana. Warriors typically carried it over the shoulder or had an attendant carry it into battle.
On the battlefield, it was used with powerful two-handed sweeping strikes to cut down enemy cavalry and foot soldiers alike.
Its sheer reach and momentum made it a devastating weapon in open field engagements.
As battlefields evolved and close-quarters combat became more common, the Ōdachi gradually fell out of practical use in favor of the more versatile katana.

The Ōdachi in Popular Culture

The Ōdachi has become iconic in Japanese pop culture and gaming. Notable appearances include:

Ghost of Tsushima — oversized enemy weapons drawing on the Ōdachi aesthetic
Demon Slayer (Kimetsu no Yaiba) — Yoriichi Tsugikuni's legendary blade
Dark Souls and Elden Ring — the Ōdachi and its variants appear as powerful two-handed weapons
Monster Hunter — the Great Sword weapon class is heavily inspired by the Ōdachi tradition

Its imposing presence and raw power continue to capture the imagination of sword enthusiasts worldwide.

Fascinated by the full spectrum of Japanese swords? Our store carries a curated selection of authentic hand-forged katanas and long-blade styles — each crafted with premium high-carbon steel and delivered anywhere across the United States. Explore our collection and find the blade that speaks to you.

What Is the Longest Katana Called?

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What Is the Longest Katana Called?

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