The Japanese Samurai Sword Blade - This page is dedicated to the study of the Samurai Sword blade. The different aspects of its construction are discussed here. Several photos and drawings are provided to facilitate its understanding.
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The blade of the Samurai sword is the most important component of the weapon. The value and desirability of the sword are liked to the condition of the blade.
There are three types of Samurai swords. The Katana, Wakisashi and Tanto. The way to determine what type of sword one has is by measuring the length of the blade. This measure is taken by drawing a straight line between the tip of the blade and the back blade notch (Mune-Machi). This measure is illustrated in the following photograph.
Additional characteristics of the blade are covered in the following sections.
BLADE HAMON
The Hamon of the blade is the pattern found just above the edge of the sword. The Hamon extends the entire length of teh blade and includes the tip. The following are examples of some of the patterns available. Note that these many not be all of the designs. Others are most likely in existance.
GUNOME Hamon pattern. consists of a zig zag line.
YAHAZU Tang pattern. This is a design with notches.
TOGARI hamon pattern. Consists of pointed characteristics.
SUGU hamon. The design is that of a straight line.
HAKO hamon pattern. This is the box shaped hamon.
This page is dedicated to the study of the Samurai Sword blade. The different aspects of its construction are discussed here. Several photos and drawings are provided to facilitate its understanding.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my Japanese sword worth?". A price guide is available and can be seen by visiting our Samurai Swords section. A trend can be observed. The present worth of the items in the collector's market is illustrated.
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KIKUSUI Hamon
This design of hamon consists of multiple horizontal lines that simulate the water. A Chrysamthemum flowe floats on the water.
NOTARE Hamon
This type of pattern simulates rolling waves in the ocean. The waves are gentle and separated.
TORAN Hamon
This type of Hamon is composed of a series of irregular size bumps.
SUDARE Hamon
The design of this Hamon consists of a series of wavy lines which simulates the surface of the ocean.
MIDARE Hamon
This type of sword Hamon is composed of a series of small bumps grouped into sections. The size of the bumps is irregular.
SABONSUGI Hamon
This type of design is formed by a series of irregular spikes with a rounded top.
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