A katana (刀) is a traditional Japanese sword with a single-edged, curved blade, designed for quick draws and precise cuts. It became the primary weapon of the samurai during the Muromachi period (1336–1573) and remained in use through the Edo period (1603–1868). Unlike the tachi, which was worn edge-down, the katana is worn edge-up, allowing for a swift draw-and-strike motion known as iai (居合).

Sugata (姿, Blade Shape)

• The katana typically has a shallow curvature compared to a tachi, allowing for more efficient two-handed use.
• Standard blade length ranges from 68–80 cm, though variations exist depending on the swordsmith and period.
• Common sugata types include:
  • Shinogi-zukuri (鎬造り, ridgeline construction) – The most common shape, featuring a defined ridgeline for structural strength.
  • Hira-zukuri (平造り, flat construction) – Less common for katana, usually seen in shorter blades.