Katana

"Katana" is the general description of any Japanese sword or bladed weapon that is longer than a dagger. They vary in size, shape, and even in material. Katana, when used, often become the central focus of the ninja's jutsu, with the sword-user developing techniques to maximize his sword's efficiency.

In tradition, a katana is a single-edged sword designed for open-field combat. The blunt end of the katana could be, technically, used as a bludgeon tool. The forging of a katana can take over half a day, and is still considered an art in today's society. Katanas are not made for dueling or blade to blade combat, since it could damage the blade, instead kenjutsu and Battojutsu, two different methods of fighting with Katana, focus on precise cutting-related attacks. The katana can also be used for stabbing motions, but it is not as effective as slashing. Wakizashi, a name given to swords with a blade length in-between that of a katana and a dagger, complements the use of a katana. The wakizashi is used where the katana could not, including, in extreme close quarters, executions, and seppuku, ritual suicide, as such precise actions can dull or snap the katana's blade.

Significant Katanas

 * Kusanagi Sword:
 * Orochimaru's version: the sword of Japanese legend, extendable and capable of slicing through virtually anything, current status unknown.
 * Ebony Blade: a sharp, black sword that is wielded by Raidō Namiashi.

Also See

 * Japanese sword
 * Katana
 * Kunai - Real-life Ninja weapon based on a Trowel, a real-life gardening tool.
 * Throwing Knife - Other Knives meant for throwing.
 * Kenjutsu - Real Life Armed Martial Art.
 * Knife Throwing - The Art of Knife Throwing.
 * Unusual Swords