If you have spent hours in an online samurai swords store, you must have come across the magnificent Japanese Tanto sword. The Tanto sword is a traditional sword used by feudal soldiers in Japan.
It was much smaller than the katana, with a typical overall length of 15 to 30 cm. It was, nevertheless, one of the most formidable swords ever created, and warriors utilized it in hundreds of fights.
What Are Some Amazing Facts About the Ancient Japanese Tanto Sword?
Other than being a fantastic close-combat weapon, the Tanto sword was quite functional. It was ideal for hiding due to its small size, and it could easily pierce armors. Moreover, it was legal for commoners to carry this weapon for self-defense, and you could choose from a dozen different blade types for this.
Here are some of the top facts you need to know before you go out and buy the Tanto for yourself.
Ideal for Hiding
The Tanto was frequently hidden in the feudal warrior’s clothes due to its tiny size. Before introducing the wakizashi and Tanto, samurais in feudal Japan frequently carried a Tachi and Tanto. Only the Tachi was exposed, while the Tanto sword was hidden. So, this concealed weapon served as the last resort when the primary weapon gave up.
Yoroi Toshi: The Armor-Piercing Weapon
When the Mongolian armies conquered the region, Japanese swordsmiths recognized the necessity for armor-piercing weapons. Samurais, who wore strong and wore leather-boiled equipment, failed to defeat their Mongolian adversaries.
However, the Tanto came in handy in this situation. It was designed with large contours that could pierce armor. So, it could easily pierce thick armor and get to the organs of the opponent. Swordsmiths even gave this unique form of Tanto a name: Yoroi Toshi.
Allowed for Commoners
Samurai soldiers were known to carry this sword. Certain common people also carried a Tanto sword. Women, for example, concealed a kaiken, a kind of Tanto, in their kimono for self-defense.
Its tiny size makes it an especially excellent self-defense blade. So, many commoners, such as merchants, tradespeople, and more, carried it for safety and protection against adversaries. It was well-hidden in their sashes.
Multiple Blade Types
The Tanto was not created with a particular blade type in mind. Swordsmiths created the Tanto with more than a couple dozen edge varieties. In Tanto’s manufacture, the HIRA was perhaps the most frequent blade variety.
It had edge bevels around the blade’s periphery, with no flatness between each one. Another frequent blade kind in the Tanto was the SHOBU. It had a long center ride that ran through the whole of the sword.
Key Takeaway
Due to limits on weaponry manufacture, the Tanto fell out of favor after WWII, like other Japanese Traditional blades. Nevertheless, there has been a surge in demand for this sharp weapon in current history. Collectors and martial artists alike are on the lookout for Tantos these days. If you are also a huge fan of ancient Japanese swords, the Tanto blade is the ideal option for you.
It is smaller than a katana, but it offers amazing control, balance and can be concealed. It also looks good on your wall, and you can complete your sword set.
