Japanese Sword Types Chart

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Sword Kanji Length (approx.) Worn How Typical Use Notes
Tantō 短刀 15–30 cm In belt or carried Dagger / backup weapon Used for close combat, utility, and ritual
Kaiken 懐剣 20–25 cm Hidden in clothing Concealed dagger Female samurai self-defense and ritual tool
Wakizashi 脇差 30–60 cm Edge up in obi Secondary sword Paired with katana
Kodachi 小太刀 50–60 cm Edge down Smaller battlefield sword Distinct from wakizashi in origin
Uchigatana 打刀 60–70 cm Edge up in obi Transitional battlefield sword Predecessor of katana
Katana 刀 60–80 cm Edge up in obi Primary sidearm Optimized for infantry
Tachi 太刀 70–90 cm Hung edge down Mounted combat Older than katana
Ōdachi 大太刀 100+ cm Carried on back/attendant Anti-cavalry / battlefield Too long for indoor use
Nodachi 野太刀 100+ cm Slung on back Open-field combat Field sword; similar to ōdachi
Naginata 薙刀 Variable Mounted on pole Polearm Curved blade on staff
Yari 槍 Variable Mounted on pole Spear warfare Straight thrusting weapon

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