Katana Or Knight Sword? What I'D Choose For a Life or Death Duel

If you were to fight in a real life to death duel where you could only pick between a Katana and a European Arming Sword, which would you choose? Here is which I would choose and why.
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The katana is characterized by its distinctive appearance: a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands.
The first use of "katana" (gatana) as a word to describe a long sword that was different from a tachi occurs as early as the Kamakura Period (1185-1333).
The rise in popularity of katana amongst samurai came about due to the changing nature of close-combat warfare. The quicker draw of the sword was well suited to combat where victory depended heavily on short response times.
The katana was often paired with a similar smaller companion sword, such as a wakizashi, or it could also be worn with the tantō, a smaller, similarly shaped dagger. The pairing of a katana with a smaller sword is called the daishō.
The katana is generally defined as the standard sized, moderately curved (as opposed to the older "tachi" style featuring more curvature) Japanese sword with a blade length greater than 60 cm ( 23 1⁄2 inches).It is characterized by its distinctive appearance: a curved, slender, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard (tsuba) and long grip to accommodate two hands.
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#metatron #sword #duels

[@maximilienrobespierre7927]

I would choose the Mauser K98k rifle bayonet. Preferably with the rifle still attached.

[@aaagagatagtgtt9656]

Hopfully with a couple round in the magazine.

[@maximilienrobespierre7927]

@@aaagagatagtgtt9656 Even if not, a rifle with a bayonet is basically a spear, longer reach than a sword.

[@ctrlaltdebug]

Hermann Fegelein A very heavy, very short spear with poor balance.

[@nobleman9393]

What about Panzerfaust?

[@TriantafyllosTsiakiris]

FEGELEIN! FEGELEIN! FEGELEIN! FEGELEIN!

[@-blank-4766]

The knight sword can cut through stereotypes from weaboos. But the katana can cut through low expectations from european weapon enthusiasts.

[@arthurpendragonsyt]

Either way, they cut down idiots.

[@ChanelRose]

True

[@kerberos1826]

@ I'd say it's easier to use, the cutting aspect can be as good on a Knight sword.

[@Psiberzerker]

HAHAHAHAH! Well said.

[@God_gundam36]

This

[@alfredo3289]

I love how we’re talking about a fight to the death and there is relaxing music in the background.

[@Igelme]

I love how the first thing he says to a guy forcing him to duel to death at gunpoint is if he can use armor. He went straight into it lol

[@goldenageofdinosaurs7192]

Wuci Lol, gotta stay loose before a fight 🤣

[@keirfarnum6811]

Wuci Muzak kills!

[@neilwilson5785]

It's a bit ASMR later on, lol.

[@aragayjr4321]

We are civilized people

[@joethesheep4675]

as my trainer used to say: "What we learn works because what didnt work died with its inventor on the battlefield."

[@somefuckstolemynick]

It’s been quite a while since anyone died in the battlefield though.

[@joethesheep4675]

@@somefuckstolemynick i am pretty sure its only a few minutes maximum. But the chances of the cause of this death being a wound inflicted by a sword are very small.

[@somefuckstolemynick]

@@joethesheep4675 Sigh, yes, I did hope you'd get that from the context.

[@joethesheep4675]

@@somefuckstolemynick which i did....

[@portawop9]

"The best techniques are passed on by the survivors."- Gaiden Shinji, Elder Scrolls

[@HS-su3cf]

Ask for a wakizashi, instead of a katana, then use it to commit seppuku. That would show the kidnappers who's the boss.

[@fransthefox9682]

10/10 edgy teens recommend this.

[@d3vilman555]

A man of tru honor that is. I respect ur Bushido.

[@d3vilman555]

Europa Uber Alles Weeb Humor. Suki da

[@gendoruwo6322]

pussy! a real samurai can commit seppuku, even with using katana. proof again that katana is the superior sword, so multipurpose!

[@jonasoliverabel9881]

Didn't they use tanto?

[@cyfertea8707]

Knights: knights are better! Samurai: No Samurai is better! Peasants with Muskets: Haha boomsticks goes boom.

[@darthkek1953]

Black Death : Bacteria FTW!

[@itshafix1272]

Drones be like : su su su

[@Soridan]

The funny thing is that samurai who were actually engaged in warfare by and large absolutely loved the boomsticks and were eager to embrace its use. All the "muh honour, muh katana" stuff came from peacetime gits who yearned for a glorious past they've never experienced.

[@fatchungi2732]

@@Soridan so basically some people rn? yknow, "those" types

[@Soridan]

@@fatchungi2732 The glorification of the past is old as balls. It's not just "those people" you don't like. Our ancient Egyptians already had ancient Egyptians they fangirled over. Getting a chubby over larger than life heroics of long dead warriors and LARPing as them is a pastime older than writing. It's human. Also the whole bushido honour was pushed by the government too, to keep a large warrior caste without any wars to fight in check and toeing the line. Small wonder then that so many believed it.

[@flare9757]

My favorite sword is a European Bastard Sword. Well... or a Dueling Saber.

[@WG55]

The greatest invention of William the Bastard!

[@flare9757]

William Adderholdt Wait... is that who developed them? I am not sure, nor seen anything on it...

[@TGPDrunknHick]

yes a weapon that work well if you can find a shield or not. also being longer makes it great in a street. not so much in an alleyway though.

[@WG55]

@@flare9757 LOL, no, I was joking! 😆

[@davidtuttle7556]

I'll take and 1798 British light cavalry sabre. Hell, ftw and charge in with as Spadroon.

[@emperordemetrius3832]

Well, i think the answer is obvious. A katana doesn not have a pommel that you can unscrew and end your opponents rightly. So, i prefer a european longsword

[@ousamadearudesuwa]

the ultimate pommel can only be used by the Norse.

[@nickv8334]

but what if your only choice is a long sword with a riveted pommel? good luck unscrewing that.

[@jonsnor4313]

You can carry an extra pommel with you, or more extra mommels on your belt, with the ultimate pommel, the holy pommel.

[@ThunderClawShocktrix]

what if we fit a pommel to a katana?

[@tyrannicalrex6232]

Emperor Demetrius end them rightly!

[@luisarturoorduna2098]

Some time ago, chating with a group of friends, the ages old question arised: Best caliber for self defense? Which one would you choose? my opinion was "the one that fits the weapon you are most familiar and proficient with" Better to have a lousy .22 that you can shoot blinfolded through a keyhole at ten yards because you practice with it that much, than to have a handcannon that you have never handled before. I think same goes for swords or any other weapon.

[@Tsuyuri193]

In my experience I'd choose a katana or a long bow

[@balonkita185]

Pffff, nonsense. The Only real caliber for self defense is 125mm as demonstrated by a T-14

[@wolf1066]

I've fired .22lr and 9mm semiauto pistols and .357 Mag and .44 Mag revolvers. I'd go for the 9mm for preference - but if my only choice was between the .22lr and a .44 or .357 Magnum, I'd go for the .22lr.

[@Unpainted_Huffhines]

Octavian said it best in HBO's "Rome". "Better to be no swordsman at all than to be a middling swordsman. The graveyards are full of middling swordsmen".

[@gabrielinostroza4989]

In case of no shield: 1) take off your pants 2) wrap them around your left hand 3) grab the other guys' blade

[@ChanelRose]

That sounds about right. How did you even know that?

[@interdictr3657]

@Democratic Communist use your dress

[@demogorgonzola]

@@ChanelRose Shad did a video o cloaks recently. One of the points he made was how handy it was to use them in fighting in the same way Gabriel wrote.

[@shawnwolf5961]

@@demogorgonzola Yep, basically it's like having a cheap gambeson on your arm. And if you have modern jeans, I imagine that would be even more protective than a cloak.

[@nirfz]

my first thought was taking of shoes and using one, but the pants/trousers work way better and maybe startle the opponent additionally.

[@TotallyNotLoki]

Last time I was this early, Caesar was crossing the rubicon.

[@goldenageofdinosaurs7192]

Nate Last time I was this early, Alexander was just coming up with a really big idea... 😉

[@jonsnor4313]

Last ime i was this early, Ishtar had still lots of followers.

[@BluecopetitaTL]

Last I was this early, Caesar was about to fight Wamuu.

[@ThunderClawShocktrix]

Last time I was this early Pharoh was at war with the hitites

[@NamelessKing1597]

wood1155 why would he use a stick when there are plenty of rocks around, that would be dumb, the best sticks are the pointy ones for poking, even Grog knows that.

[@swisstraeng]

I'm in the Halberd team. Especially if I can have plate armor, so that I won't need a shield. But If we aren't allowed any armor, then I'd take a spear. I just want the range advantage. I chose these mostly because I never touched a sword, and I guess, that these weapons are easier to use.

[@SaurusWarriorSotek]

Ahhh a man of culture

[@Poldovico]

I'm guessing if you've never touched a weapon a spear would be easier than a halberd?

[@patanjalilemonsquashimmortal]

Spears/halberds all time ♥️

[@Specter_1125]

A pollaxe would be a better bet in single combat. The halberd was primarily a formation weapon while a pollaxe wasn’t

[@eldorados_lost_searcher]

Well, there's a reason why spears were the go-to basic weapon for millennia. Easiest to train with whilst keeping your opponent out of range. Also relatively cheap.

[@PickBit]

"Which sword would you choose for a life or death duel?" "Polearm." "Dude, we were discussing sw..." "POLEARM!!"

[@TD-ug4mg]

Isn't a halberd the deadliest non ranged weapon ever made?

[@Hostilegeese]

I mean, a naginata is both a sword and a pole arm, it's like a cheat code for this.

[@RMLLcrazy]

Swords are like handguns. Portable, elegant. Polearmos are like rifles: better in every way if you know a fight will happen.

[@TheInfurnos]

@@TD-ug4mg Geodendag , I believe was up there as well , pikes, halberds lochaber axes , all the same pretty much. They all have specialties , halberds and Geodendag work great on armour as do the larger axe weapons. Pikes and spears have best range against lightly armoured , range is key. You are correct tho if you had to pick an over-all halberd was the end of development of pole weapons , spear for thrusting , axe for bashing and smashing , backspike for penetrating.

[@TheInfurnos]

@@RMLLcrazy perfect analogy

[@TrueUnderDawgGaming]

I'll take a knight sword since it is sharp on both sides.

[@michaelwillis8966]

Block the Katana, the back hand cut with the false edge. Surprised they never show that in a fight.

[@dimitriemenzies7132]

Buddy ever heard of a “double edged sword” that can also be a disadvantage

[@robertjohnson-tz6mw]

Katanas cut thru knight swords easily so yeah nice try bud

[@Wh1skyz01]

@@robertjohnson-tz6mw no they can’t

[@TrueUnderDawgGaming]

@@robertjohnson-tz6mw Lmao no they do not. That is a myth. Both swords have similar mass. The misconception is the "one thousand folds" process of making a katana. That is done to remove impurities from the blade, but no one does it anymore because the metal used to make it is already cleaned of impurities. The katana is about the same as a knight sword in terms of durability, mass, etc.

[@UrvineSpiegel]

I just imagine the kidnappers discussing the questions you ask that they weren't prepared for. " Can he use a shield?" "Well we do have one, I don't see why not." " But the other guy doesn't have a shield." "Well he has a 2 handed weapon." " but we never told him he could use a shield" "Guys, maybe we should do this tomorrow."

[@safetybeachlife]

Hehe And: “We should have worked the rules out BEFORE we grabbed these guys, Adrian . . .” “ Jeezus, now he knows my name . “ “Sorry.” “Anyway, can we get a move on, I’ve got a 6 pm dinner reservation.”

[@Kyle-gw6qp]

The arming sword would win because it has a pommel.

[@axetheviking6482]

Pommels are the most potent of weapons of mass destruction

[@tyrannicalrex6232]

Kyle Forrest a good defense is a good offense!

[@lixulan]

a pommel so you can end them rightly...

[@fransthefox9682]

A zweihänder would win because it has a bigger pommel.

[@seneca983]

@@fransthefox9682: Zweihänders have smaller pommels.

[@deathlyvoid2419]

I couldn't agree more with this video, Metatron! There is no universally "best sword ever made", it all depends on the context and on the skill of the user. I myself prefer European swords and will choose the arming sword if shields were allowed. But I would choose the katana if shields weren't allowed, for the same reason as you.

[@SaurusWarriorSotek]

Unless we talk about the power sword of the Grey Knights space marines, that thing can cut a tank size bug monster

[@shawnwolf5961]

Objectively, however, as much as I love the Katana myself, the lackluster guard and the fact that you have no anti-armor options with it like the murder stroke, pushes it into a more specialized niche. I don't even know if halfswording with one is really possible, given a katana's curvature. Surely at best it would be very awkward to pull off. So imo, a longsword is much more versatile. Still 2 handed, but the guard is more protective, and the sword, to some extent, can be used vs armor--unlike a katana

[@deathlyvoid2419]

@@shawnwolf5961 I totally agree with you. I don't own a katana but my sparing partner has one, so I've handled them before. And personally I would choose the longsword over the katana for the aforementioned reasons you provided and the longer reach.

[@fleepss2407]

this man knows

[@gunthertwoyou]

I do love both swords! but in my case I would pick the Katana. I am a novice and the curved blade would help with my edge alignment... slightly. A very small advantage, but it would help.

[@ianmcfadyen4819]

I remember wielding an English long sword at Warwick castle. I never thought they could be so well balanced.

[@darthkek1953]

The balance and feel is the thing many modern replicas get wrong. They are crazy well balanced. In D&D that you use the STR bonus to hit not DEX shows Gygax never touched a real sword in his life.

[@Gebunator]

Not to mention, personel swords were balanced according to the wishes of its wielder. Supposedly some nobles did prefer the balance more on the top and some prefer more on the pommel. Not a lot of balance difference, but apparently enough for a skilled swordsman to notice.

[@dimitriemenzies7132]

I love how this guy displaces his preferences and makes them as equal and uses logic behind his reasoning

[@ottodalottoman7399]

A true weapon enthusiast can ignore bias and uses their knowledge to decide which is more practical for a situation

[@tobiashartl2759]

One word to make my decision: Crossguard

[@lilslavboi2171]

Tobias Härtl yeah i feel like not getting your fingers and wrists cut open is pretty dope

[@levyata8964]

@@chroma6947 The cross guard isn't that big or heavy

[@zes3813]

wrrr

[@kidthorazine]

@@levyata8964 They aren't heavy, but some of them are big enough to get in the way if you aren't used to them.

[@nelson_rebel3907]

@@chroma6947 "a simple disc that stops blades in parry" And the cross guard does that better because it is longer for actually stopping or controlling the opponent blade for a parry

[@andrewstrongman305]

You nailed it, Raph. The context in which the weapon is used is always the most important, but usually overlooked factor.

[@miceliusbeverus6447]

Very true - and it applies to almost anything in life - should be remembered especially when politicians or historians are trying to manipulatoe facts...

[@MellonVegan]

*Matt Easton wants to know your location*

[@Oversamma]

Just want to throw out there that I'm quite fond of the thumbnail. Looks really great.

[@jonathancummings6400]

I like that Metatron uses strong strategic and tactical thinking, using reason to come to his decision.

[@pac1fic055]

Before watching the video I’d say: going up against an opponent with heavy armor: sword. Going up against a lightly armored opponent: katana.

[@peterv1318]

Pac1fic0 - yes exactly. That’s actually what these swords where made for.

[@Azdaja13]

A more realistic situation for the duel... "Right Metatron, what I've got here is the greatest Italian pizza of all time. I'll give you it if you fight that guy in a duel to the death. European or Japanese sword, take your pick!" :P

[@erickf.dossantos4654]

He turns to the dude and say with a serious face : can i wear armour?

[@fsdds1488]

And it turns out the pizza contains pineapple, now make your choice.

[@swingtity9798]

@@withastickangrywhiteman2822 no it wouldn't...armor+spoon wins

[@zes3813]

wrr

[@jasonberryman1035]

*Metatron instantly wins the duel and proceeds to solo the entire United States military*

[@kaji9704]

The only valid answer to that question: The weapon you feel most comfortable with. No sword is objectively better or worse than the other one, they all have their good and bad parts.

[@timtitus8442]

And it Depends on which style you fight for example if you fight kendo you should probably use a katana

[@ludwigvanbubthoven5692]

Somewhat related to the question, the same is true for firearms.

[@robert-joshuamcfaddin7041]

Best answer right here

[@robertjohnson-tz6mw]

Not true at all. Every sword can be beaten by a sword known for cutting thru rock n steel swords

[@jeandupont8501]

So much this.

[@all5stars]

Metatron : "wake up samurai, we got some weebs to burn"

[@vumanhtung]

Did some weebs kill Metatron's dog?

[@viktorthevictor6240]

@@vumanhtung Did some dog kill Metatron's weebs?

[@bluesap7318]

Viktor the victor did some webs kill metatrons dog?

[@Cmich_bob]

Even has the shirt

[@samuraispeltwrong]

@@bluesap7318 didn't joe mama beat tronald dump?

[@Jookman6]

I love that Australia already answered the question who would win in a duel, a guy dual wielding a Katana & machete Vs. a chainsaw... spoiler 40k knows the future to come.

[@jonathancastro8487]

Wut?

[@echofoxtrotwhiskey1595]

@@jonathancastro8487 Yeah I’m in same boat WTF happened in Australia?

[@Jamie-cc1vw]

warhammer40k was made by Rick Priestley a british dude

[@Borengar629]

Short answer: a Claymore. Long answer: a fucking Claymore.

[@voltaire5427]

Naked with a claymore or just gauntlets. Hopped up on PCP covered in blood and feces. Really banking on psychological warfare.

[@vaughanmacegan4012]

From the Celtic word: claidheamh-mòr

[@formam1022]

I am the middle man in the katana and European swords. They have been design for what they where used against.

[@blondon1368]

At the end of the day it doesn't matter which is better. To quote Zorro, "pointy end goes into the other man"

[@taejo4975]

Normies: European longsword Weeb: Katana Viking lads: WARAXE Me: *A horse, bow and arrow.*

[@gokbay3057]

Me an intellectual: duel you say? Rapier. But if I could shoot a bow I might have chosen that. Mongol style is pretty good.

[@charlottewalnut3118]

YourAsianComrade 27 I chose a giant ass mace I have a huge mace that crushes plate

[@deeo4888]

ok mongolian

[@ABaumstumpf]

I'd just take the car.

[@joegambabambino4277]

Me: A Changdao

[@calebl8858]

This was very interesting for me. I work at an FFL selling firearms in the US. I'm constantly pushing the practical most efficient option. Many customers come in trying to make more of their preferred weapon rather than carrying the most efficient option. I make the same argument when you have to defend your life, preference doesn't matter anymore. You want the best tool for the job. Great video 👍.

[@chrishestand1]

If the two swords are crafted with traditional methods? I’d prefer the softer European blade. Yeah, it’s lower quality, but classically forged katanas didn’t stand up to being beaten on very well due to the brittle cutting edge beyond the hamon line. Muramasa did improve on this, but the chances of your katana being one of his blades, or even having been forged with his methods, I’d assume are very slim. In contrast, the European swords weren’t very well hardened in the first place, and were almost expected to be out of commission after only a few altercations. The softer core and structure, especially if it’s got a fuller, I’m pretty sure would make it a lot more shock resistant. There’s a good reason why actual katana fencing and combat methods went out of their way to avoid clashing edges. Then again, I’m supposing it would depend on the era, but there’s a lot of documentation suggesting that for a long time katana cutting edges weren’t tempered. One good swing against that cutting edge, or to the side of it, and that martencite is gonna shatter like glass. Now, if these swords were made recently by reputable bladesmiths? Then ignore everything I said. Flawed craftsmanship probably won’t be a factor. Unless the modern Katana came from a traditional Japanese swordsmith. Some may or may not temper the cutting edges depending on the smithing techniques they’ve chosen to follow. Personally, if I found out the katana was from a traditional smith, I’d go for the European blade simply because I don’t want to take a chance at having a weapon that could snap in half against an opponent who has zero interest in trying to preserve their blade.

[@jameskinstle6874]

This is the best reply here. You couldn't be more correct. Different materials, different techniques. The Katana was an amazing weapon but was prone to shatter like glass, the European sword also amazing but like disposable razors.

[@stephentymcio8856]

@@jameskinstle6874 so bc the japanese islands had comparatively inferior quality iron ore, weapons their culture produced are inherently inferior? I think materials should be taken out of the equation...whose to say that the katana was not in the top %1 with fewest impurities? Or the Euro sword made of Damascus steel? What if your opponent had trained to avoid sword on sword contact? Or if they were a master of Iaijutsu, drawing and killing in a lightning quick single smooth motion? Even if his blade breaks on your body, you are worm food and your superior quality blade will be a rusty gravemarker

[@jameskinstle6874]

@@stephentymcio8856 Spoken like a true katana fanboy. How many "what ifs" were in that reply? You know what isn't a "what if"? Documented history. That's whose to say the katana's materials were not in the top 1%.

[@sam12149]

@@stephentymcio8856 avoiding sword on sword contact? As in not knowing how to parry?

[@Gebunator]

I wouldn't call average european blade lower quality at all even back in the time and definitely not a "Disposable" razor. In same vein, katana wasn't inferior, overhyped weapon. Sword was pretty much status symbol, both in Japan and everywhere in Europe, so "cheap swords" were rarily a thing. The thing was that in order to make martial weapons, Japan HAD to use those tedious and meticulous techniques due their low quality iron, just to produce "weapon-grade" metal. Basically, in order to produce same quality weaponry, Japan had to have much more involved casting and smithing techniques to produce same quality. There is a concept known as "over-engineering" which will apply in smithing real well. Why go extra expensive and beyond to make better than weapons-grade product when said grade WILL serve a soldier/knight/general/King remarkably well. However, it's not like europe was unfamiliar to the folding/laminating process Japan used. Heck, some say we can thank the high knowledge of metallurgy and smithing on India as there originated most new invention regarding to metals. Then throughout trade, these new knowledges get passed and bought around. The lamination/folding process, Wootz, Walloon, high carbon, low carbon steels.. Yeah, we can thank the wise men of the silk for that. TL:DR; Both type of swords and theri construction methods were devised because of material availability and were designed to work in their intended locale and needs of time periods. IN their native lands, they were exceptional designs.

[@TGPDrunknHick]

you really should throw a picture of matt easton over you own face every time you say context.

[@jello788]

*C O N T E X T* I love this channel LOL

[@germanvisitor2]

He is probably miffed because Matt made a video on the lorica segmentata without him.

[@neilwilson5785]

Context is a wonderful word when comparing things. Nobody should have a monopoly on it. Matt is a great context user tho.

[@TGPDrunknHick]

@@neilwilson5785 I know it's just fun when similar genre youtubers throw references to each other around. If matt started talking ninja turtles I'd expect raph to have metatrons face thrown on it.

[@coryman125]

There are a lot more "if"s in this answer than I was expecting, which I guess really shows you've thought through this and you're not just picking one on looks. I hadn't considered the whole one hand vs two hand part, or the question of whether you'd be armoured, those really add a lot to the discussion. I was wondering how you could get a 12 minute video out of a simple question like this, but you managed quite well!

[@fransbuijs808]

You could make a movie about this. Metatron kidnapped and forced to fight his way out!

[@davidtuttle7556]

@@fransbuijs808 Is he forced to go sword and shield or is he allowed to go full Centurion? Because Centurion Metatron might be able to stand in against Miyamoto Musashi

[@eduardokenji8678]

ITS ME AGAIN, PRAISE THE DAMN SUN ALREADYYY

[@alanmechling9822]

🌞 \[T]/

[@shinkiro403]

It's too early for me, I'll praise the Darkmoon for the time being...

[@alanmechling9822]

@@shinkiro403 And worship the Trap God? Count me in! 🌒 \[T]/

[@lassim3111]

Praise the sun \[T]/

[@mailman7044]

☀️ \[T]/

[@boejiden5851]

**relaxing music in the background** "With a mace, you can't really perform any draw-cut or push-cut. You really need to hit him hard, and break his bones."

[@berkan7662]

Guts: "w h y n o t j u s t u s e a h u n k o f I r o n?"

[@qasimalam2574]

Or a cannon arm

[@exemida]

Did someone say Hunk of Iron. Let me go get my Maul.

[@user-wu7ug4ly3v]

This is great 👍 I had katana-vs-Eurosword-vid deficiency disorder. It’s so cliche, that no one’s done it for a while.

[@kazanshin4108]

Honestly, as a student of nodachi kenjutsu, I'd really want to see Metatron give an in depth look on the weapon. There's a lot in his comments on it that I don't really find fair here. Probably just because of my bias though.

[@jeandupont8501]

Probably because he has no idea what he is talking about.

[@VieneLea]

You should think outside of the box. Choose a reliable gunsword (it has a blade and a hande, so it's technically a sword), and win the fight with a single shot.

[@arx3516]

They were crap both as swords and as guns, so you shoot, miss and have to fight with a crappy sword.

[@johnalmeida8621]

You’re the metatron and I think you’re choices are the right ones because you do your research and by the way I love your channel

[@Segalmed]

May depend on the size of the room you are supposed to fight in. If it's very confined, a shorter blade may be the better option. Rapier fight in a phone booth could make an interesting short film ;-)

[@petelee2477]

Well I've never picked up a sword in my life and the curve of the samurai sword is supposed to assist with edge alignment but I think if 2 master swordsman were to fight then I think the extra range and ability to thrust for the European sword is better.

[@robertmartinu8803]

First thought: can I have an espada ropera or rapier? Or a staff/spear? Second one: take the weapon that works with a shield. Not getting injured is a great way not to die in the fight... :)

[@Quicksilver_Cookie]

Spears kinda suck for 1v1 duel. Which is strange at a first glance, because it's such a dominant battlefield weapon. However, it has too many weaknesses if you are alone. And they are not that difficult to exploit.

[@howielowis458]

@@Quicksilver_Cookie depends. Without a shield and armor a spear is hands down the best weapon for 1 on 1 combat. The range and speed when wielded with two hands is just unbeatable.

[@trooperrcb7991]

Hey Met, Congratulations for your channel! Big fun here! A question for you😎 Dropped the same question to Matt and Skall but didn’t bother to answer. I hope you do. Under the following circumstances: Assume that you will be teleported into an area that you’ll have to participate into a “Hunger Games” scenario death battle. Weapons used by everyone are any type of knives, swords, spears, blunts and pole arms. There will be no projectile weapons like bows, crossbows etc. Everyone else participating except you, will be distributed randomly historical armor sets, from bronze age up to full plate armors. They also might or might not hold any type of shields randomly. Any other participant is starting by himself but there are no rules forbidding team ups, except you off course. You have to solo the game. So you might be against more than one versus one. After eliminating an opponent, you cannot loot his armor or shield and use it for your own. Last restriction is, you have to choose one sword. Which sword would it be and and why? Thanks Met

[@zakremmington6297]

If I had a choice and shields went allowed I'd choose a longsword with a ringed hilt if possible. I don't like the look but I've been hit in the thumb enough times in sparing to appreciate them.

[@Jakromha]

Wouldn't that get in the way for a lot of longsword techniques?

[@zakremmington6297]

@@Jakromha No not at all, the rings still allow a finger over the guard for and for the thumb to be placed on the flat of the blade and the space occupied by the rings shouldn't come into contact with your body in any technique I know of. The rings are actually far more cumbersome and in the way when the sword is being worn then when it's being used.

[@ripperfisher182250]

I feel like people are forgetting pole arms and other variants of poled weapons.. they'd definitely be #1 in a 1 on 1 duel. I don't even know how'd you engage without a shield against one. It's almost suicide for sure

[@Tracer_Krieg]

I choose a poleaxe.

[@SaurusWarriorSotek]

Looks like you bring a pointy stick to a .45 revolver duel

[@eldorados_lost_searcher]

@@SaurusWarriorSotek I'm bringing a banana.

[@comyuse9103]

@@SaurusWarriorSotek i'll just bring even moer dakka, ork boy

[@KORNEWARRIOR]

The versatile weapon ever invented.

[@LilyBlossom1337]

My favorite sword is the small sword. I love the aesthetic, the stiff triangular blade solely for piercing, the speed and dexterity. Against, say a rapier or really any other sword, I'd be at a disadvantage since they were really meant to fence against other small swords, I'd still prolly use it.

[@troy4298]

Spears are superior, i can stab you from way over there

[@LilyBlossom1337]

@@troy4298 Oh shit yeah. Even with my parrying dagger in the off hand, it'd be tough to block the rapid assault of incoming thrusts, let alone having to deal with all the deft blocks from that spearhead should I dare attempt to rush. I'm pretty quick, but I'd rather not make that dex check, haha.

[@robertball1532]

My favourite sword is the falcion because it is light, single edged and looks amazing. Plus I see the falcion as a civilian weapon more than a battlefield weapon and I don't have any experience with fencing with any swords. However I have handled swords and I believe the falcion would feels good in my hand and would be the easiest to master. Metatron please let me know what you think.

[@violentdancesfadechoreaevi1069]

The most effective sword for a duel between unarmored men is a spada da lato a striscia (or rapier). No question about it. It was designed for that and used for centuries for that specific purpose. History doeasn't lie.

[@nevertrustatory9412]

I think the real deciding factor would be how quickly one could unscrew the pommel...

[@santdhai]

In my opinion, a Nodachi is somewhat a Japanese counterpart of a European great sword rather than a longsword. To compare a Japanese sword with a longsword, I usually use a Tachi.

[@phantomgg7790]

Agreed, Nodachis were basically used by samurais who were to stubborn to pick up a spear or a halberd

[@xariasfury5782]

No superior blades for sure. BUT SUPERIOR POMMELS ARE REAL! Jk. Spears ftw

[@CosmicG777]

A man of culture I see.

[@jjt1881]

As always, it is a pleasure watching your videos because of your understanding of history and context, as well as your common sense.

[@mikereese529able]

Very good video. I always thought that the comparisons are ridiculous. They were both developed by completely different cultures and to be used in completely different types of battle against different weapons and different armors.

[@Skvffed]

Longswords are nimble, they have fantastic reach and bind control. A longsword with an octagonal waisted grip is extremely reliable and precise when it comes to edge alignment. Longswords also have a guard.

[@sigmachadtrillioniare6372]

Can my glock beat your longsword

[@Skvffed]

@@sigmachadtrillioniare6372 Definitely.

[@Michael_De_Santa-Unofficial]

@@sigmachadtrillioniare6372 Glocks are the best.

[@sigmachadtrillioniare6372]

@@Michael_De_Santa-Unofficialmissiles?

[@Michael_De_Santa-Unofficial]

@@sigmachadtrillioniare6372 No. Screw that shit. Glocks were, and still are, much better than missiles.

[@bastiaan0741]

A double edged sword allows for more options. But, the best made sword of the two I guess.

[@ROMANTIKILLER2]

Matt Easton may copyright claim you for the repeated use of his trademark "Context!" ;-)

[@leviathan5759]

My personal favorite sword is the highland broadsword, I love the aesthetic and the basket guard provides top tier hand protection. I'd probably use it in a duel, mostly because of that beefy guard and I regularly spar with it so I'm familiar with its usage.

[@laktho]

Anyone not used to this big one will probably die ;) It's like boxing. The capability to move and used the sword at the same time is key to win.

[@e.d.7742]

For me personally, I'd go with katana. Not because I think it's better, it's just what I practice with. I don't know how to use a European sword properly. I really like how you broke down the decision making process with the context of the duel in mind.

[@TheHoldJack]

The nodachi was originally a cavalry weapon, it's a bit hard to use on foot.

[@scottphillips2870]

How would you swing a giant nodachi from horseback?

[@TheHoldJack]

@@scottphillips2870 Usually It was used to mow down the infantry during a charge. You swing It down sideways using the horse momentum instead of your own footwork, wich Is what normally allows katanas and nodachis ti cut well. Of course it's not exactly the best, but at the time the nodachi was created It was seen as a nice improvement in warfare by the japanese.

[@Joe___R]

With the option of any European sword or any oriental sword in a fight with no armor or shields I would have to pick the European great sword.

[@falsefight]

The "great sword" was designed for armored combat against pike formations. Good luck swinging the heaviest sword on the battle field for a one on one duel, lol

[@Halfdanr_H]

I love the Viking era Scandinavian swords best. Beautiful weapons.

[@tyrannicalrex6232]

Halfdanr Hamarrhjarta exactly have you seen some archeological scraps and objects found? Some axe heads are impressibly made I would say most weapons of any Viking from That era would be crazy sexy!

[@howielowis458]

Hell yeah, the norseman had some really good smiths for sure. The sworddesign is also somewhat similar to what the germanic tribes used centuries earlier and they as well had some stunning craftsmanship with both metal and wood.

[@luigisaintil413]

My favorite is the two handed euro sword. Like you said met in a life a death situation it’s really not about the durability of the sword and more options. You have more chance of injuring your opponent depending on openings the opponent would be more vulnerable to just think about what makes you comfortable to use. I’ll say that definitely depends on the size of the opponent and if I get to pick my weapon second.

[@Alpha_Digamma]

Depends on the battlefield. If it's an open field 1 on 1. I'd use a Zweihänder of the Landsknechts. It was designed to combat against pikemen, so you have a massive range advantage over the Katana.

[@irredemption]

Uhhh.. deus vult?

[@lucifermorningstar181]

No Allah akbar

[@QwertyBoredom122]

Just remember the Japanese had Christians too

[@lucifermorningstar181]

@@QwertyBoredom122 Likely only making 0.1% of the total population of Japan

[@QwertyBoredom122]

@@lucifermorningstar181 Christianity currently stands as the 3rd highest religion in Japan at about 2% of the population today, this would almost certainly be much higher in the past as religious belief in Japan much like to rest of the developed world has dropped significantly (about 60% are non-religious today) and especially in the 1800's after Japan opened to the rest of the world, it should also be noted that even historically Christianity was established enough that multiple daimyo converted during the sengoku period and took official state persecution under the Tokugawa shogunate to properly repress.

[@degredadodegradado9110]

Desu vult*

[@GeistDrachen]

My choice would be a tachi. 4ft in length, with a Japanese styled crossguard.

[@wendelljoelpeters2534]

Depends on the skills of the person.The outcome will always comes down to the skills.

[@killerkraut9179]

Half true

[@emirvisnjic1051]

Not really

[@user-eq6xc6yx1d]

The whole benefit the arming sword is the shield! Then, if you have the sword and shield. Even though the shield is meant to be defensive. The shield can also be a weapon. You can bash someone right up side the head with the shield. People don't seem to recognize that. You can totally knock a guy senseless with you shield then follow up with a sword thrust to dispatch your enemy

[@itsmesteve1081]

The katana was a backup weapon when samurai weren't using their bow and arrows. I saw a KZbin video explaining this. Samurai's main weapon was a bow and arrow typically while riding on horse back during battle. When they ran out of arrows or had to fight close range they took out their katana to cut and slice. That is why a katana is not double edged. Part of it was because of the natural way the iron cooled down and made it curve, but part of it was also cutting and slicing was more effective while on horse back than a straight sword.

[@anblueboot5364]

When you bring a Longsword to a knife fight

[@fmailaender]

Unarmored I would ask if I could have a spear. A Spear is cheap compared to a sword and I think you need less skill to yield it. I have no fence practive but I am pretty confident that I could still stab someone with a spear. (Without armor or shields)

[@hang_kentang6709]

@Bez Nervoze pretty confident is not the same as being confident. its a fancy way of saying, i'm 50% certain that i'll be able to do it. overall, he is not being arrogant. regarding the spear, there is a reason why it was used as the main weapon for armies since antiquity. its easy to use, effective and cheap. there's a reason why military formations in old drawings are always sword+shield or spear formations.

[@jonsnor4313]

You can be skilled in using a spear too, or a quarter staff, but a spear is a cheap amateur weapon as well, and would be good in a zombie invasion. Thats why spears always were in any wars till the age of guns came, and even then, a bayonette is kinda like a mini spear too. And polearms. Even in japan they were used in any battle, it just became a ritual female weapon later.

[@jackanderson1155]

The European sword is clearly the correct choice. After all, you can't end him rightly with a katana.

[@aaagagatagtgtt9656]

I appreciate that your analysis of the subject took into consideration various factors and specific scenarios rather than just saying one was better than the other. Personally, although I probably prefer the aesthetics of the katana, I would, given the same set of possible scenarios, probably choose the same weaponry you chose (although if the option existed, I would choose a polearm instead (probably glaive or similar if unarmoured, perhaps a guisarme if armoured)).

[@BadBomb555]

Speaking of katanas. Yes they were indeed made by the time of the long lasting wars, but in fact, a longer sword, but not a size of a nodachi, a sword called tachi was far more popular during the long lasting war times in Japan while katana got more popular during the peaceful Edo period in Japan much like rapiers in Europe during in a very close to the same time period. Katanas much like rapiers were kinda like your usual everyday self-defence carry weapon or fencing for duels for civilians as well as a status symbol for samurais.

[@riverl.7947]

Obviously the best choice is the Knights' sword. Katanas have no pommels to throw.

[@kristinradams7109]

ha, ha! I love meeting fellow Skallagrim fans! :)

[@LarryGarfieldCrell]

Given that I have no skill with either, I'd go with the katana as it's more forgiving of lack of skill. If I had my druthers, though, rapier or bardish. Naginata would also be acceptable.

[@ctam79]

Question: Could you do a review of the final duel from the movie Rob Roy between Rob Roy and Archibald Cunningham?

[@teeprice7499]

That was pretty well done and, from what I was told by relatives when visiting Scotland, pretty accurate.

[@HerrSposato]

My fav duel. Worth reviewing...

[@kalonem5719]

I love the Nodachi it's my favorite weapon in the world, you have to utilize distance and timing along with sheer strength and efficiency. Which takes a shit load of training, however I feel that it's best to go Katana, you fighting to the death, so there is not time for choosing with your heart, you have to go with what works.

[@davidcrisp3832]

I've been thinking about this sort of thing off and on for 30 years. I'd have to say it all depends on the type of katana I have to choose from. Katanas fall into several categories. Details matter here. While all katanas can be used for cutting or stabbing, they are not all designed to do both efficiently. Some are curved like scimitars for cutting, some have 45 degree angles on the tip, like a tanto, that are better at piercing armor, while others are more dainty and only suited for un-armored combat. Kamakura Era and Middle Edo Period designs curved and primarily designed as cutters that would leave you open to a thrust. The modern katana design and the Middle Edo are also more delicate blades that probably would not hold up well against an Arming sword or Longsword. Later Muromachi swords are just poorly designed for this sort of fight with a deep curve in the blade and a tapered point. While they would be fine against any other katana, an Arming sword would be a better choice than the Muromachi against a generic European sword. My personal choice would be one from the Momoyama Period, which has the thickest blade, slighter curve for better thrusting, and a wide point strong enough to penetrate Japanese armor. It is essentially an oversized, two-handed saber with an armor piercing tip. If you consider equally matched opponents in size and skill, this is the katana that has the best chance to defeat a straight, double bladed, European sword of any size. If the katana is not a Momoyama design, I would choose the Arming sword... but this is where things could possibly get interesting! For sword and shield combat there is actually one particular type of katana that would utterly defeat an Arming sword and shield combination. Samurai armor began to develop into its present form around 1000 A.D. because during the Heian Period (750-1200-ish A. D.) samurai began to make the transition from foot combat to armored cavalry. The earliest known sword used by the samurai was a katana with a straight single blade and an armor piercing tip. It was also slightly shorter and lighter than any other katana design that followed. Today we call that weapon a Ninjato and ascribe all manner of mysticism to it that just isn't true. The incredibly interesting thing about how the samurai used the Ninjato during the Early Heian Period is that at that time the samurai also used shields! As the Heian Period progressed, shields and Ninjato were abandoned in favor of the stylized armor designed specifically for horseback and longer, heavier swords were developed to more easily engage enemies while in the saddle. So... if given the choice of a shield and a Ninjato, I would definitely go with that choice against a European sword and shield. Why? The Ninjato is lighter and more nimble. Proper shield work will negate the need to clash the lighter blade against the heavier, and it can be used with more speed and agility. In that scenario, the European Arming sword loses all advantage. Consider that in a case of equal defenses, the arms race is now a contest of power over speed and agility. I would choose speed and agility.

[@ayytism8857]

Trick question: SPEAR 😂👌

[@thegamingking3509]

There is weapons more powerful than spear but you need skills

[@houayangthe3rd]

Pommel studded baseball bat with a crossguard.

[@charlesdexterward7781]

So it will be done. Metatron with katana vs Matt Easton with arming sword. No context allowed. This I command.

[@dudleyblokerave]

Make it so!

[@samk522]

The historical purpose of the nagamaki always puzzled me, but after what you said about the nodachi, maybe the nagamaki was developed as an answer to the nodachi's handling and balance issues. Anyway, my personal favorite sword is actually the nodachi, believe it or not, though I would certainly think twice about taking it into any kind of duel (it's meant to be a field weapon anyway).

[@olehaugan9555]

The arming sword. It has a better guard, can be used with shield, double edged and historically had better steel I think

[@Redtecho]

wouldn't it be better to compare a long sword to a Katana?

[@lucifermorningstar181]

A katana is literally not a primary weapon of the samurai,It's always boils down to "samurai vs knights" so people bring up a katana just to "Hahaha see nippon isn't so strong",As to your question both are nothing when compared to spears and great swords.

[@lucifermorningstar181]

@John BroSS Depends on the definition of "superior" although if you're literally going to use a long sword in most cases then i guess you point this as an example of superiority,I just disagree on the knight is better than samurai shit

[@trolltalwar]

@@lucifermorningstar181 a knights full plate armor is vastly superior to a samurai's full battlefield armor but when it comes to weapons its all situational. a sword blade isnt good at cutting armor. european longswords with fine tapered points were developed to slide between gaps in plate armor and through mail rings with a thrust. the samurai didnt fight against plate armor, therefor they didnt design weapons to combat it. the katana can thrust, but not as good as a longsword. the longsword can cut, but not as good as a katana can. on a battlefield when youre fighting in formation a spear/halberd or yari/naginata is the best option especially when armor is involved. if the samurai eventually developed full plate armor id wager you'd see a vast change in the design of japanese blades. a blade made to maximize cutting power isnt made to defeat armor

[@IPostSwords]

The obvious answer is the spadroon.

[@mallardtheduck406]

It's a no brainer.

[@ganzerovon3045]

Neckbeard weaboo vs darks souls player European weapon enthusiast.

[@nicoslink1410]

*pulls out comically large Zweihänder*

[@bmo1878]

I think the answer is whichever you have more practice with. What are you more comfortable using? It doesn't matter how good a weapon is if you are no good with it.

[@bdcochran01]

Wakizashi. I am going only with the first hypothetical. Put into a room. This is the part before the discussion adding some form of armor. And, yes, I have multiple swords. 1. if the sword is unwieldy or too heavy or balanced, you won't carry it or have it with you. 2. the constriction factors in a normal room would be ceiling height, furniture or objects. This is why my deployed swords in the house are wakizashi. 3. As you say, you don't need strength to make serious cuts. However, if you use a pointed sword in a thrusting manner, the shock is directly into you. Remember the mantra "for every action, there is a separate reaction." So, I would rather slash and recover than stab and recover. 4. For that matter, you don't need to spend a fortune on a sword. You can use a durable plastic or heavy duty bo slick curved like a Japanese sword. It won't make cuts and it will deliver blunt force which can be as injurious.

[@alexphotiou3607]

I would love to see a video on legendary Japanese blades(masamune, kusanagi, etc)

[@haikofthegods]

I would pick the katana because I have practiced with it way more than European swords

[@-Zevin-]

People made fun of weeaboos and became westaboos themselves, how the tables have turned.

[@dovahgwyn_]

Bruh

[@Blaisem]

lmao

[@DynomitePunch]

"what is the best sword for fighting" just like with guns, it comes down to too things, like metatron said, context, what armour or clothes is he wearing, what is the conditions of the fight, and secondly, whichever one your most skilled in using, i like the katana, sure, but i'm better with a european or northern european sword, so i'd go with that personally

[@WhyName]

Assuming similar material and craftsmanship, I'll take the one with the cross guard and pommel.

[@JorneDeSmedt]

But what would you choose if your opponent would then use the exact same gear against you as well? Say if you choose to wear armor, so does your opponnent, if you use a shield, so will your opponent and whatever weapon you choose, your opponent will use the same weapon. You're effectively choosing what advantages your opponent gets too.

[@chiisanabanana2257]

Well at that point it all mostly comes down to your own skill level, stick to your strengths, however, if you can see who your opponent it then their physique, height, slimnes, etc, will also take a bit of consideration

[@Tanzenergise]

i'll just take a medieval sword and throw the pommel at my enemy