Posted by Jason M. on 1/20/2022 to
Learn About Swords
So you want to learn all of the parts of a Samurai sword. No other sword in history has so many names for the various parts of a sword. We are here to help you with most of the common Samurai sword terminology, and we think the best way to do so is with a nice big picture. We first started with taking a picture of one of the swords we had here in the shop and then labeled all of the most common terms you will run into when dealing with the Samurai sword. We have also put the terms and definitions below. If you would like the definitions of more sword related terminology, make sure to visit our Sword Glossary. Also, be sure to check out our Samurai Swords for Sale.
Kashira - Metal piece at the end of the tsuka
Menuki - Metal ornament under the tsuka ito
Tsuka Ito - Cotton or silk wrap on katana handle
Same - Panels or wrap of ray skin under the tsuka ito
Mekugi - Pegs usually made of bamboo which go through the handle and tang
Fuchi - Metal piece below the tsuba
Tsuka - Handle
Tsuba - Guard
Seppa - Metal spacers at bottom and top of tsuba
Habaki - Metal collar on blade
Ha - Cutting edge
Mune - Blade Spine
Hamon - Temper Line
Hi - Groove near the mune, sometimes called a blood groove
Sori - measurement of the curvature of a katana
Yakiba - The hardened edge of the katana
Nagasa - Blade Length
Yokote - Line that separates the kissaki from the Ha
Kissaki - Blade tip
Saya - Scabbard
