Ninja Swords

By Author: seo gopinath
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The ninja sword also known as ninjato and ninjaken is a special kind of sword used by ninjas in feudal Japan. As the ninja were very secretive and involved in clandestine activities little actual information survives about them and their weapons today. Most of the information is pieced together using different accounts and books. Historically speaking there is no equivalent sword used by the ninja’s like the legendary Katana used by the Samurai. There seems to be no physical evidence left. But it is believed the ninja’s used a smaller sword than the katana, more closely resembling the wakizashi also used by Samurai.
This ninja sword had a characteristically short length usually less than 60cm. This aided in ease of carrying and a silent approach which were crucial to the activities of a ninja. The Katana used by Samurai was a much more effective weapon with greater cutting power and reach. But the greater size and weight meant that it could be as fast and flexible as the ninja sword. And for the ninja flexibility and maneuverability is of utmost importance.
Now the ninja sword had a few other distinct characteristics. ...
... Usually it is depicted with a square or circular guard. The guard is very minimalistic. This is again to ensure stealth and ease of movement on part of the ninja. Also usually the ninja swords are used as a set of two. The smaller guards help with the carriage of the two swords on the back.
Also of note is the shape of the ninja sword. Unlike the Samurai Katana the ninja sword is a straight sword. Again the reasons are the same; this meant easy and stealthy carriage. Also it is speculated that ninja would not have access to state of the art forges and weapon crafters, as they were the fringe of the society. Therefore they had to maintain and forge their own swords. A straight sword is much easier to forge and maintain.
The ninja sword was the specialist weapon for a specialist warrior, a warrior whose ally was the shadows and the night. Whose survival depended as much on his stealth as on his skills with the sword, a warrior who relied on fast drawing actions and quick thrust and cuts. For such a warrior the ninja sword was the ideal weapon.

Swords The ninja sword was the specialist weapon for a specialist warrior, a warrior whose ally was the shadows and the night.