Which Sword Is Easiest To Use? Katana vs Longsword

[@nicjansen230]

12:00 In case you're interested, the physics behind a sword swing aren't that hard: at any point along the edge, there's a certain amount energy in the blade, and there's a certain amount of leverage the target has on the blade. The energy and leverage balance somewhere along the edge and that's the sweet spot / centre of percussion... If you want to know more, here is the thought behind what I'm saying: a certain amount of energy in the blade at a certain point: as you know a circle with a longer radius has a longer circumference. Any point along the edge makes a circular rotation. A point further out will have to travel more distance to get the same amount of rotation; a point further out will travel faster more easily. Weight and speed combine into kinetic energy. (E=(1/2)*m*(v^2) as many people know, or E=(1/2)*J*(ω^2) which is closer to this example) a certain amount of leverage you have at a certain point: your leverage is basically the length between the centres of your hands, but the leverage the target has is the length between your front hand and the impact point. (you're at a big disadvantage, so that's why kinetic energy is so important) When you hit something the blade wants to push the target due to its kinetic energy. On the other hand, the target pushes back at the blade with its leverage. If you start near the hilt, you have little energy and the target has little leverage, so not much is happening. If you go out a bit more, you have more and more energy (especially near the centre of mass). If you go further out, the energy in the blade increases less than the leverage the target has, and you'll hit a balance. If you go beyond that balance, your advantage starts decreasing. At the tip, you have a lot of energy, though the target has a lot more leverage as well. (I guess nobody read that all the way... Tell me in case this was useful in any way)

[@Farweasel]

Welllllllll...... IF you used edit and explained what the EmJw and hat symbol mean.

[@nicjansen230]

@@Farweasel E=(1/2)*m*(v^2) means: to get the energy, take half of the mass multiplied by the velocity squared. That's when you describe a motion in a straight line. E=(1/2)*J*(ω^2) means pretty much the same: to get the energy, take half of the inertia multiplied by the angular velocity squared. That's when you describe a circular motion.

[@MadNumForce]

Well, it's way more complex actually. Blade trajectories are a mix of rotation and translation, and the speed is not constant. It involves dynamics, not just statics. And this makes a huge difference, I believe. Also, a sword is not just a lever. Mass distribution plays a significant role, precisely because it's a dynamic movement. This is a rather complex phenomenon.

[@Slash-XVI]

@@Farweasel In general E in physics means Energy. m is the symbol used for the mass of an object, which is not the same as its "weight" in physics, but it is easy to think of mass as "what a scale will show you" for most every-day applicances. v generally means velocity, how fast an object is moving. That little hat symbol is used to represent the number after it being an exponent, so v^2 is v to the power of 2 or v². The J (though I personally learned to use I (the capital letter i)) in this formula represents the moment of inertia, which is simply put a measurement of how much an object resist being spun around. This can actually change depending on the axis of rotation. You can test this yourself by gripping a stick in its center and just spinning it a bit and then gripping it by one end and spinning it. The w is actually a greek letter: ω (small omega) which represents the angular velocity of a circular motion. This is often more useful than regular velocity since it does not depend on the distance to the center of rotation. You can think of it a meassurement for how many full rotations does this object do in a certain time.

[@mikaluostarinen4858]

At technical school we had a dynamics calculation example about percussion point. The result was that 1/3 from the tip is the sweet spot. That was for an even stick, and the pivot point was at the end of the stick. IRL the pivot point is often somewhere else, and swords are tapered. Thus, theory doesn't help very much in practice here, but maybe it can convince people who think the tip must be the heaviest hitter.

[@hailhydreigon2700]

Matt Easton: *presents a decent and formal examination on why it would generally be a bit easier for an untrained person to use a katana than a longsword* HEMA snobs: "LOL KATTANNA is FOR n00bz confirmd"

[@Poenix21]

So are guns. Guess which we still use today...

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@Eduardo Lopez Yes, they have become as annoying as katana fanboys used to be in the past.

[@MisterKisk]

People don't have enough humility to realize that these are both pieces of steel shaped and designed for the purpose of killing people, and for a long long time, they were used very effectively to kill people.

[@Hoshionifumo]

but sometimes just excelling at the basics is plenty. dident bruce lee have a punches quote for things like this. somthing like "i dont worry about the guy who knows 1000 different punches. but the one whos practiced one punch 1000 times.

[@OfNaught]

Honestly I see far more people complaining about HEMA snobs than actual HEMA snobs...

[@Furniture121]

The real answer here is clearly the Spadroon…

[@peterfinland1370]

Easier to use than a longsword, but not as effective as katana.

[@mallardtheduck406]

It is the perfect sword for "stiff penetration " and "stiff competition"

[@Xandros999]

Spadroon is a proskill weapon.

[@lillyanneserrelio2187]

If you lack dining etiquette which utensil are you most likely to use to eat a bowl of cereal in milk? All choices are followed with "spoon" ie: Table _spoon_ Basting, Berry, Boiled egg, Dessert, Marrow, Mustard, Table, Tea, Salt, Sauce, Sifting, Serving, Stilton, Soup, Sugar.. The list gets even larger if we allow 2handed weapons, errrr I mean serving sized utensils in which case the spoon is now called a claymore ladle, like Gravy sauce ladle, Serving ladle... The correct answer is... ...whatever spoon your mom gives you. You spoiled brat 😃 Get your own utensil! (Not even going to address the fact you're still living with mom as a adult. Adult: someone who lies on KZbin age verification page in order to watch restricted content and then trolls the comment section, talking all tough behind the anonymity of the internet.)

[@john-paulsilke893]

Nope, spear trumps both. Obviously nobody walked around with an 8ft spear hanging off their hip so small sword instead, (then tie it on a pole, haha haha I have a spear again!) 🤪

[@AngryArchaeologist]

This is a good assessment. When untrained people are thrust into tense, frightening and violent situations, there is a tendency to forget all of the fine movements and subtle tactical awareness one might hope to employ in these situations. Instead, we revert to gross motor skills - big swings with maximum force and uncontrolled body structure. Both of these weapons will do in this situation, but the design of the katana is just slightly better at it, requiring less finesse and tactical forethought to generate maximum damage in untrained hands.

[@neveryoumind560]

The katana is only deadly on one side the long sword is on both so wild swinging would be better with a long sword

[@Arqane]

​@@neveryoumind560 Wild swinging is still mostly going to be coming from one direction. Take a baseball bat (essentially a specialized club) and go to town. Even people who have never played baseball are mostly going to do overhead or side swings, but they'll have most of their power from one side, and so they'll stick with that direction. Try to turn that around, and there will be so little force and accuracy that even a well sharpened blade wouldn't be very effective.

[@karlinachen6325]

in my opinion, katana's design were focused more for speed. They mainly used for cutting using near the tip of the sword, however during meiji era they are also a prominent weapon for thrusting. For me katana were more difficult to use due to its curve, thus is harder to read their actual reach & distance, but easier to swing. Because of its curve if both of katana vs long/straight sword thrown in the same speed, katana took slightly longer time to start reaching/cutting the target. In other world, in katana, you need to enter the "danger area" when you strike. Thus without adequate training, both of the combatants will ended cut each other. Before katana were invented, the japanese also have straight double edge sword, similar to european long sword and chinese jian. I found it's much harder to use katana due to its single edge and curved design, easy to swing but harder to use. While for long straight sword, tho i never try actual one, i got my experience in using chinese's jian for my wushu and kendo's shinai, were easier to read or adjusted its reach, thus they are more comfortable during show to avoid injuring my partner. Thus they are harder to swing but easier to use and thrust.

[@TaoistSwordsman]

Then their "human nature" and true character reveals itself

[@philvalz]

Next one: "Gladius or Kopis?"

[@HeadCannonPrime]

Kopis, the Gladius is an extremely specialized weapon for a very extremely specialized combat formation just like a pike. Without a giant shield and a bunch of mates standing in perfect formation around you, its pretty rubbish on its own.

[@Lykyk]

​@@HeadCannonPrime It's literally just a short sword that's decent at stabbing and hacking. Calling it specialized is very misleading, especially since the vast majority of short swords in history weren't used in formation or with a giant shield. Of course, the Romans used it that way and used it well, but a short sword that can hack and stab is pretty much the opposite of an "extremely specialized" sword. It's just a sword you can carry anywhere easily and do pretty much anything with, which is why the short sword was so popular all throughout history.

[@Omegaures]

@@HeadCannonPrime No it's not... People in Iberia were using it with the Caetra. It's really not that specialised.

[@kwanarchive]

Plot twist: the answer is "spear".

[@1yehny]

Bayonet attached to SKS, AR15, or AK47, loaded and ready to shoot.

[@ReasonAboveEverything]

Nuclear bomb

[@siadczyk]

@@ReasonAboveEverything Bayonet attached to nuclear bomb

[@BuddyLee23]

One kilogram of anti-matter.

[@ReasonAboveEverything]

Viscount Hutton I knew someone would bring this up. Good for you, sir.

[@KevinTangYT]

One thing to note as well is that the CoM on a katana is closer to the actual middle of the weapon and therefore closer to a uniform stick-like object. Going from using a stick to using a sword will take some adjustment using a longsword. Furthermore, curved weapons can allow the user to dislodge their swords easier on the drawing part of their cut compared to straight swords. Lastly, in a non-uniform environment not sword vs sword, the crossguard is effectively just in the way, hitting the forearm of the user when trying to push-pull. That took me a few weeks to get used to.

[@janeleonard985]

This made me think of Skallagrim's recent video with initial thoughts on the Albion Principe (IIRC): it's "too forgiving" because you might not even learn what you're doing wrong.

[@youtubevoice1050]

I was instantly thinking the same. Also, european swords are so much more diverse in shape, which makes generalizations difficult.

[@Tel-007]

Probably the most coherent explanation of the UK 2019 general elections so far

[@damasek219]

Or most other elections actually.

[@simonyu8838]

The observation that humans have an instinct to swing is spot on. Untrained fighters in an unarmed fight tend to throw wide, looping, swinging punches and undoing that to learn how to throw straight punches is one of the first things that gets taught in unarmed striking martial arts whether it be karate, boxing, Muay Thai, and so on.

[@tjnlindaoconchuir1312]

Spot on. Easiest way to spot an untrained fighter.

[@DaroriDerEinzige]

Or a heavy weight Boxer who knows that the 1,75m guy with his ~70kg can't block the swing anyway and it will be a one hit KO.

[@olivermilutinovic749]

Really good breakdown of the side by side functionality of two popular sword types.

[@Emil-yd1ge]

Nobody is as good at explaining the same points over and over again without boring me like you, Matt :D

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

I prefer to use a Wrongsword. Great when used just Right.

[@whynottalklikeapirat]

@@itmademesignup9508 In the words of Sauron: "Wight you are ... "

[@Jay-ln1co]

Every scholagladiatoria video ever: "Oh, and the point as well, I'll come back to that in a second."

[@dougsinthailand7176]

Daring subject, Matt! ;) For modern people, I think that it boils down to how we are conditioned by viewing modern media. If we see any movie or even cartoons showing someone using a Japanese sword, it's usually showing correct or authentic techniques. If we view a movie showing a European medieval sword being used, it's usually incorrect or even dangerous. Given that, I'd say the katana. Due to prejudices. At a Fiore class with Schola St George many years ago, we did some test-cutting (tameshigiri) with my antique katana and Colin Hatcher's Angus Trim bastard sword, the katana was WAY BETTER at cutting. Now that might be due to the fact that the katana was sharper but it made a real impression.

[@silentone11111111]

Back when I did fencing in the late 1970's I did foil a bit of épée and then later fell in love with sabre. I found it easier to beat people who just started with sabre. I found they wouldn't use the point and that was a huge advantage. I wish there was hema then. Electric sabre is a joke now. It's not even a sword anymore. ,just a electric poking whip. 😥

[@karyldavidkidd7111]

Pleased to see the title not engaging in the clickbait 'vs'. I (and hopefully all denizens) am tremendously annoyed and bored with the comparison imbalances along the topic of weaponry. I feel that you engage in a full spectrum, giving viewers details that they may form their own view point. Slainte

[@kaizoebara]

The title contains the *vs* though... XD

[@MrLightningBlt]

Thank you so much for making this video! A lot of people really under rate the handling of a sword wether it’s a katana, a longsword, a kriegsmesser etc. I believe it is an important factor.

[@EVENINGWOLF666]

This was a really great video..it actually reinforced a number of thoughts I have had for a long time on the similarities of the two weapons pointed out a few things both in similarities and in differences that I hadn't considered before. It got me to thinking though and it occurred to me that what might be a really great follow up to this video is one where you demonstrate the similarities of the two swords. Not just cutting against static targets, but actually usage of the weapons in sparring. Have tww people using long swords fight each other, then two people using katanas fight each other, then have one of the longsword fighters against one of the katana fighters. Even having them go singly against a third weapon as well. That would really give a good idea of both the similarities and differences in the usages of the two weapons.

[@knh5954]

I would contend , the real question is "what is the person you will be using this sword against wearing?" and then choose best choice to counter that. Weren't these swords designed for the type of Armour they would encounter and changed based on advances in said Armour?

[@rhemorigher]

I'm happy to say that as someone who used to mock the katana I no longer do, it seems the historical community's backlash against the katana kultists worked and they either moved on and forgot about it or learned that poetry and anime sometimes isn't one hundred percent accurate.

[@robertshelnutt5081]

First time here. Good video. I have played (and that is the proper word for what I have done with edged weapons) with both, and the one over my bed is a modern katana, with a bit of weight in the butt, to bring the balance nearer my hands. Somewhat more intuitive for me, your mileage may vary. I'm subscribing, and will watch when I can. Thank you, sir!

[@GonzoTehGreat]

In D&D 5th edition, weapons have a damage type which is ONE of _bludgeoning (B), piercing (P) or slashing (S)_ and certain armors are resistant/vulnerable to specific damage types (in which case the damage is halved/doubled accordingly). So, for example, plate armor is resistant to damage from a longsword/rapier (P) or sabre/scimitar (S) but takes full damage from a mace/warhammer (B). Similarly, mail armor is resistant to "S" damage but vulnerable to "P" damage. Would you care to comment on these rules from a historical context?

[@JustGrowingUp84]

What?! I didn't know of this! Are these some sort of optional rules, published in a supplement or such? I know that in the old AD&D Second Edition, the armors had various ACs against different weapon types.

[@GonzoTehGreat]

@@JustGrowingUp84 The damage types, resistances and vulnerabilities are described in the PHB, I think in the combat chapter (9). Weapon damage types are listed in equipment chapter (5). How you apply these (to armor) in combat is left to the DM. I use house rules.

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@@GonzoTehGreat "I use house rules." - ahh, this explains it! I was looking like crazy through both chapter 9 and chapter 5, and couldn't find anything about armor with resistance, lol. Well, I think it's a nice idea. This means that the players will have to switch weapons depending on the enemy, instead of each using a favorite weapon regardless of enemy. And it fits nicely with the group weapon proficiencies introduced since 3e.

[@GonzoTehGreat]

@@JustGrowingUp84 Yeah, I wasn't expecting a fellow D&Der to reply, so I kept it simple, as I doubt Matt or HEMA practitioners know the difference between RAW and homebrew. 🙂 It doesn't force my PCs to switch weapons, as I only modify the weapon damage itself (although you could apply the modifier to the total damage instead if you wanted more variation), but the cumulative effect over the course of a combat can make it worthwhile to switch. It also makes it useful to carry/use different weapons instead of just one. My PCs now tend to carry at least one additional, different type of weapon, as an alternative, and also a knife as backup. Combat is also more situational (Matt would say contextual!) as a result.

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@@GonzoTehGreat Heh, you can find us from the lowest dungeons to the highest peaks. Heck, I've even seen D&D comments on pornhub! Can't remember the details, sadly, but I do remember they were pretty funny.

[@carloparisi9945]

The katana is easier to carry, in my opinion, and the cross of the longsword is going to catch on stuff as you move around. I'd rather have a european sabre, if I can't, a katana would be my choice.

[@edi9892]

I would go for a Wakizashi if I don´t expect much fencing, but want to carry something that can make a decisive cut. It´s short enough that it doesn´t get into the way and it is fast to draw. Having a full-sized sword will always be a nuisance, even with a minimalistic hilt. It´s long enough that it hits all sorts of things and you can´t sit down, plus, depending how you carry it, it might slide around too much, or put a lot of asymmetric strain on your belt...

[@edi9892]

In any case, it really depends on how often you expect to need it and what are your priorities? Agile blade and decent hand protection or Send limbs flying even with sloppy cuts If you had to fight zombies, or animals, or ambush a gunner, it´s a very different story from having to be able to fence.

[@AGermanFencer]

With a proper scabbard the longsword is easier to wear if its a longsword like the one shown. Below 120cm lets say with a medieval average height of 175cm-ish. Thats why longswords are often not that long maybe ^^ About the cross catching on stuff: Never ever happened to me. Its a bit of a strange idea, sorry ^^ I own and wear high quality examples of both kind which can compare to historical originals. Fencing and having done some years of iaido. Thats my idea on the subject.

[@Burboss]

@Talûn-karkû The Warchief I'll take 9 mm any day over any blade

[@Krishnaeternal]

@ Carlo Parisi I so totally agree with you. I've been using katana (for 20 years) after a longsword literally broke on me. I just got an european sabre. It's awesome.

[@keesjanhoeksema9575]

Indeed, It’s the Swordsman not his blade that makes the difference!

[@mallardtheduck406]

It's good for a true swordsman to wield different types of blades... different situations call for different weapons.

[@chengkuoklee5734]

There were records pro being killed by noob in judiciary duel. As long someone has a weapon in hand, treat with extreme cautious, noob or not.

[@perfectibility999]

The katana and longsword are likely more similar to one another than the longsword is to the arming sword.

[@Sinthioth]

I was literally just wondering about this today!

[@Spear_of_the_Raven_Ash]

Matt is good at that it seems. I recently experienced something similar with regards to Bowies, Kukris, and Seaxes.

[@damasek219]

2:06 The rule: "never use the word pommel without at least subtly referring to the possibility of detaching it in order to end them rightly" Mat Easton: "rule confirmed"

[@MrShaggrock]

I love how Matt makes a point and immediately goes BUT!

[@oneparticularlysmartape]

Matt: [Makes a 5 minute long statement explaining something in a totally reasonable manner]... *B U T* [Keeps going making it even more complete and interesting]

[@JimTempleman]

The Katana comes close to being a two-handed Cutlass.

[@iangrau-fay592]

I was thinking cavalry saber, similar lines of thought and function.

[@john-paulsilke893]

Without the guard which is Very useful but would significantly slow down a snatch, draw and strike which the katana excels at.

[@scottbelmont0044]

like most of their culture, probably the katana is a kind of chinese dao

[@john-paulsilke893]

Robert Curtis don’t need to swing simply push and rub it against ruffians. Even somewhat dull the profile allows for very close significant injury delivery. Most people swing them like bats which is actually far less effective and easier to misalign the edge.

[@choiettech]

@@scottbelmont0044 surprisingly it ended up being the other way round. During the Ming dynasty, Chinese commanders would copy sword techniques and designs from the Japanese for their two handed swords.

[@Sk0lzky]

I'd say katana is a no brainer considering its noticeable curve, single edge and shorter length. Choppy nature makes it slice on its own. Longsword, on the other hand, especially later, stabbier types, require lots of practice to cut with them at least somewhat consistently, while effective thrusts are actually not that easy to perform. And it can confuse a layman as to what it's designed to do because of its versatility.

[@JustGrowingUp84]

Yup, my thoughts exactly.

[@worshipedwarrior441]

WHAT??!!! You can't unscrew the pommel?! USELESS!!!!!

[@tigershark8867]

If you can't unscrew the pommel, just throw the whole sword.

[@GonzoTehGreat]

Indeed, what Tosh! How on earth do they rightly expect me to end this debacle?! Am I supposed to KIA them to death?!

[@Muritaipet]

@@tigershark8867 No!!!! That wouldn't end it rightly

[@ironstarofmordian7098]

@@tigershark8867 that's not the way! Only pommels can be thrown, Heretic!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@tylerreed610]

I wanna see a video where some unarmored knight finds himself encountering an unarmored samurai of comparable eras duel it out with their weapons. Or just sit down and have a chat about their different swords and fighting systems.

[@martinaee]

This is so damn interesting. P.S. this video just makes me want a katana and long sword 🗡 that I can’t afford lol

[@_Scipio]

Nice presentation. I tend to agree with you. That's a good looking katana!

[@hawkname1234]

Matt - not a silly video at all. And good for you for not just saying, "It depends." It makes a ton of sense for katanas to be easier for untrained people to use to hack things down with!

[@Viral-Cell]

Nice vid and a good assessment, the katana does cut a lot easier. It's curved blade is designed so it's less likely to get stuck during a slash so you can quickly move to the next cut/person in battle. It's curve also helps to draw and cut simultaneously from the hip so you can get the first cut at close range if you need to act fast. (It might not be powerful but it can provide an opening for a finisher) Another great thing about the katana's design is the way it's made from both hard and slightly softer metal at the blunt edge of the sword. This allows the blade to absorb shock (to a degree) on impact which reduces the chances of it breaking in a clash, provided you don't incorrectly angle the katana during a swing then you shouldn't have much of a risk of snapping it. The only difficult aspects for inexperienced users will be re-sheathing the blade without looking at it or drawing if the katana is too long. Both of those aspects can be easily solved with practice though, the katana can be a great weapon during your duels or zombie hunts. Happy slashing folks! :)

[@Kws50201]

Thanks, Matt. Love your videos. Keep up the good work. AlabamaUSA

[@rafaelribeiro404]

If I'm not mistaken, the late R. Lee Ermey did a fantastic scientific work that irrefutably proves the katana as the superior in every aspect. Jk From my slim experience with cheap swords ( the ones I can afford) katanas are much easier to cut with. But skallagrim once said in a video that cheap katanas usually are better made and have superior quality than cheap longswords, so people tend to believe the katanas as better cutters because of that.

[@matthewcooper4248]

Plus, most Japanese reproductions are sharp enough to cut with where longswords usually aren't.

[@chrishowe2935]

It was a TV show, not a scientific work, and I’m pretty sure Matt or Skallagrim or someone has done a video disagreeing with the conclusion, because the tests they did weren’t representative of how the weapons were actually used.

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@@chrishowe2935 Rafael was being sarcastic, that's why he added the Jk (Just kidding).

[@NoshuHyena]

I submit the idea that "Peened at the pommel" should become an idiom, and it could mean something like you have everything wrapped up and in order.

[@lordbiscuitthetossable5352]

It would be, if I didn’t chuckle every time I heard the word peened. XD

[@dace48]

I like that saying and I will now use it to confuse normal people in conversation. I do disagree about "ready for battle" though, based on many internet sites aimed at novices or dabbers I always associate the phrase "battle ready" to mean "we've put a half arsed edge on a wall hanger."

[@beardedbjorn5520]

I love it when I get peened at the pommel, just makes my day.

[@alphaplenn]

The weight of a broad sword has a lot to do with it's intended use, it not only cuts, but also crushes! The katana is useless against plate armer!

[@Biomaterials_Science]

As an automatic stab person rather than bash an aligned point is more attractive to me. Admittedly I tend to hold things with my hands the other way round too, dominant hand at the bottom, because that allows letting go with the other hand and doing a (surprise) long swing.

[@petercrins2848]

If you don’t mention that these swords are basicly the same, but that there are some differences over and over again, this videocould have been 10 minutes shorter.

[@damasek219]

There are only the same differences ¯ಠ◡ಠ

[@ofailia650]

Could this be a reason for the longsword-sized Messer staying a separate type? After all it developed from Bauernwehr knives/short swords, and that name already amounts to calling it a noob weapon (literally peasants' defence). I'm not a fencer but from the examples I've seen in museums, the similar-sized Messer look like they would handle even more like a Japanese sword than longswords already do.

[@crominion6045]

That makes sense. Much like the Chinese dadao, made for use by minimally trained peasant militia, which also played on the natural human instinct Matt mentioned to hit or hack at things.

[@Knoloaify]

The longsword Messer is a separate type mainly because it's single edge and curved. That's quite different from the different types of European longswords. Also while I can see fauchon/falchion/messers being more "poor-friendly" (though armed peasants very often owned straight swords, especially in the late middle ages), I don't think that the longer version would have have been a "peasant's weapon" since it would have been a bigger investment and would have worked better with a certain level of armor which a peasant wouldn't have been able to afford. Thus the longsword falchion was probably more something owned by mercenaries and nobles. A sword being easier to use certainly make it more accessible to the masses, but it doesn't necessarily means it was for them. Case in point : the katana. But then again, this is merely conjecture and my humble opinion.

[@HeadCannonPrime]

The reason the "messer" stayed as a separate type has more to do with guild and production laws rather than anything about the weapon itself. Guild laws were EXTREMELY strict in the middle and renaissance period. A person in the "Knife" guild could not make and sell "swords" and vice versa. Breaking that law you could lose your entire business and be put in jail, but they never said how big a knife could get. To get around that, knife makers made Grosse messers, or big knives and the handle had to use scales instead of grips and pommels.

[@Knoloaify]

@@TheTutch It's okay, you summarized my point in a way that's easier to understand. That said the longsword was also used in a civilian context and thus two-handed blades were not necessarily linked to armor. However, it seems that longswords were more of something that belonged to the upper class. My guess is that not only they were more expensive, but also, as Matt demonstrated, wearing a longsword on your belt can be quite cumbersome. If I was a medieval peasant who is going to buy a second-hand weapon for self-defense, I'd go for a one-handed sword since it's easier to carry around, is cheaper and can be just as good. A longsword would be more interesting to someone who has martial arts as a hobby, like someone who likes sparring and dueling, and that kind of people would most likely be part of or connected to the warrior class (including mercenaries) which would be more wealthy than the average peasant. TL;DR Context, I guess.

[@alphaplenn]

Two types of warfare, two types of swords! Apples and oranges would come to mind!

[@100dfrost]

In ease of use I can only agree with you, however in effectiveness against zombies I would opt for the longsword you have shown here. A cut with the katana of the size, and potential power of the one you demonstrated will more likely get stuck in your first targets head. The Japanese swordsmen in their "from the roof" cuts practise for years not to cut with such force as to get their swords stuck in an opponent's head, and I do not have that level of training, so second and third zombie are going to get me unless I release my sword and run. The more efficient at thrusting longsword you displayed should be able to thrust easily through the mouth directly into the brainstem of the zombie, and all I have to do is remember to reverse my grip as I run for my life afterward from the zombie's companions. This was a fun video and I enjoyed it very much, thanks.

[@jeffreyroot7346]

Zombies are a good case for blunt weapons rather than swords.

[@100dfrost]

@@jeffreyroot7346 Very true, Skallagrim opined that at close range he would place stock in a simple hatchet, and a good spear at mid range. If an actual zombie apocalypse were somehow to occur I would carry a crowbar for close range as a dual purpose weapon / tool, my revolver at mid, and a rifle at long, which is as close as I would really want to get. Thanks, good to talk to you.

[@baguazhaquan]

i am not really formally trained in either but spared with swords occasionally, but thought i'd add some stuff I just find on a personal experience, which i havent seen people mention. it seems easier with single edged swords to half sword. i can slide my hand around on the blunt side, and roll to prevent getting your hand cut. which i haven't seen more trained people use for some reason. with a double edge you would have to make sure it doesnt slide or cut your hand. it's just something I figured out while sparring. I think katana also seems easier to use one handed, which lets you do some different things, based on other experiences.

[@Ne0spartan]

I study both since there is so much overlap in technique, I also study Chinese Longsword to widen my training.

[@waltercarillo8916]

I agree with his assesment, only with the weapons he is currently holding and the scenario mentioned.

[@TimRHillard]

It’s an important question, easier to use, faster to learn, quicker to build skill.

[@blairbuskirk5460]

Katana is easier for beginners at least in regards to forgiveness in misaligned cuts. However some longswords have similar edge geometry , though I would say that isn't ideal. The longsword is much easier to thrust with in my opinion. And a tsuba doesn't give much protection, compared to a simple cross guard. The katana is slightly quicker to draw from the scabbard. I'd say a cutlass is probably the best one handed sword for beginners.

[@alangardner8596]

A few points. The katana is designed to be drawn and cut in the same movement. The monouchi on the katana (the area designed to be used on a cut) is near the point and because a katana always cuts towards you this means that any decently aimed blow will finish up outside the victims body and therefore will not get stuck. This cannot be said for the cutting area of the European sword. The katana has only a single edge and this is a big advantage also because you can actually put your left hand on the dull side of the blade to either cut your way out of a body when you have used the point (kissaki) to stab or as an aid to cut if you are at close quarters and not able to swing the sword. I hope this has helped.

[@tiexiaowang7939]

The video is about beginners. They won't have the footwork to get into half swording range without dying

[@jamesfrankiewicz5768]

Katana are better at thrusting than most people give them credit for. While the tip geometry isn't the best for thrusting, they are typically a lot stiffer than european swords, so you can put a lot more "oomph" behind a thrust. The mild curve is also enough that you can thrust around an opponents guard to a certain degree, while still being close enough to straight that the body mechanics of a thrust still work pretty well.

[@wallaroo1295]

I know the build of the Katana, et al is layered and all that - but, when it comes to sharpy ouchie metal... That Katana is a saber... Not some mythical PFM blade, made by Japanese Elves.

[@viridisxiv766]

its the lack of hand protection that kills it for me.

[@chadfalardeau9162]

There are many types of tsuba (handguards) some are larger

[@wallaroo1295]

Well yes - but I was focusing on the blade shape itself, not so much the interface.

[@icejohn94]

@@viridisxiv766 the thing is poeple do belive the tsuba is more protective because more of your hand is covered when you have it in hand, less hand exposed is more protection than the cross guard in that way

[@Riceball01]

The layering of the blades of Japanese swords has more to do with the quality (or las thereof) of the iron available in Japan at the time. They folded it in order to remove and even out as much of the impurities as they could. Of course, it did also help them create a blade with a hard cutting edge and a softer spine.

[@andrewstrongman305]

If the answer is "The more choppy one" why not compare the katana with a falchion or messer? Or earlier longswords with broader blades and more rounded tips?

[@McNeck-wy3vb]

In my younger years i would consider katanas superior to europeans, partly due to my interest in japanese culture and because of the "mystification" of the katanas cutting Power (like for example in video games); and also because of believing that only the japanese have proper sword fighting-schools. Now, with having more information on the europeans teachings and sword-makings, i'd rather prefer europeans blades (even though Katanas still look awesome😁)

[@TaoistSwordsman]

And eventually you'll find you have gone back and forth on that thought! Maybe one day you'll accumulate enough knowledge on how to be equally comfortable with any blade. I haven't gotten there yet either, but maybe someday Haha. Good luck my friend :)

[@althesmith]

Don't forget, the katana was very often originally used as a backup weapon for relatively poorly trained spearmen and arquebusiers- nobility in armour were usually cavalry and carried the slung tachi. Almost like the falchions and katzbalgers carried by the European mercenary pikemen. As you said, in close quarters the tendency is to slash/chop.

[@Akiralisk]

I would argue, that a katana is not only easier to use in a scenario if someone without knowledge of fencinh needs to use it right away, but also in a scenario if you have a duel appointed in a week or two. Swinging a katana around teaches you to use it much more than a longsword as katana's dynamics is, in a way, much more intuitive.

[@TheSpeenort]

Ages ago when I was in the SCA, thrusting was forbidden for safety reasons. If we used a thrusting weapon it had to have a pretty good 'pillow' at the working end. Our armor consisted of heavy jackets, football shoulder-pads, hockey gloves, and our helmets were freon tanks stuffed with foam rubber. Our swords were sticks of rattan wrapped with duct-tape to prevent dangerous splintering. I often came home from our meets with substantial bruises.

[@Helsvga]

Both are very good weapons for thrusting and cutting, although I must say that both actions have better weapons for each one, named spears and halberds, whose Japanese versions are yari and naginata. This said, both swords have similar uses, guarding positions, strikes and such, yet at the same time they use completely different. The difference is in the lever usage with the hands. The European longs word favors a much more closed lever playing. You keep your sword closer to your body, you look less for a strike and aim more towards thrust. Meanwhile, the katana favors wider arcs, more exaggerated (not much, just a bit) moves, more aggressive moves when trying to control the blade of the opponent. In general, when using longs words, all the cutting power or almost all, comes from the lever move, while the katana has more open moves and arms do more work than in HEMA, looking for a heavier slash, very much in the tendency of the sword. With the European swords, your cuts don't mean to chop articulations, but rather to create small wounds that lead the enemy into bleeding. Katana works a more aggressive arm usage trying to actually chop off articulations or at least do a severe damage. As a conclusion, for a newbie it will be easier to fight with a katana cause they will have in mind to actually try to chop away enemies head or arm and that's quite a difficult thing to do with a European longs word, or at least with the one you showed. Some others, who actually have a more broad point are actually swited for that, but they tend to be a bit heavier than the katana in the tip, having the disadvantage of being not that easier to recover guard position after a chop, although they have actually a better range to make up for that. So basically, katana is the most optimized sword for chopping and recover faster your sword. European greatswords like claymore or longswords with a more broad tip are slower (not as shown in the movies though) than katanas, and those who are more agile usually don't have a tip as much designed for cutting. However, as an advantage, longswords are generally speaking, better at thrusting, have longer range and two edges, and this last thing is very important since you can do some faster one two combo slashes without worrying to have to turn in your hands your one edged sword to cut upwards after you slashed downwards. Katana are focused on a one hit-one kill philosophy so they are less optimized for comboing, mure swited instead to attack-parry, attack-parry combat style,emphazising more the hits and with more solid and distinguished guards, much more... disciplined and dogmatic guards and moves. In the same way, in Europe you have the greatswords or the more broadtip longswords (like anduril, Aragorns sword) whose usage is aswell quite dogmatic with more clear moving patterns, although less than the katana due to more usage of thrusts. Finally, we have the longswords with less weight on the point, whose usage is way less predictable and dogmatic, they tend much more to be used in the center guard but with a lot of constant sway in the point, trying to hide the next hit, usually a thrust or a small, close to the body cut that would try to sever a vein of yours leading you to bleed to death. And those are basically the differences between all the styles.

[@londiniumarmoury7037]

You can use a Longsword like a Katana, but you cant use a Katana like a longsword, (Well for 50%) Just uploaded a longsword Vs Katana and other fencing matches today. What a nice coincidence.

[@sumosquirtlrekt2340]

The katana sacrificed variety for being better cutting and draw attacks, which the longsword was more for dealing with armor, and it also focused on reach.

[@MilesTraveler]

@@sumosquirtlrekt2340 the longsword is like, the most generalized sword ever. Also the Katana isn't all that specialized for cutting. Try something like a Scimitar, Katana is not curved enough, not thin enough and not broad enough to be an ideal cutting sword.

[@jaketheasianguy3307]

I did managed to execute some longsword techniques that used the 2nd edge with the katana.It's still viable,the back of the blade could still deal a great deal of blunt damage instead of cutting damage.You could still use 100% of longsword techniques on the katana (even half-swording),it's just not that effective like using a longsword.But the longsword user on the other hand couldn't apply 100% of katana techniques because alot Kenjutsu techniques required the user to make use of the curve of the blade to parry and counter attack,which something the longsword doesn't have

[@Krishnaeternal]

@ 4:20 I'm sure we all love how our weapon interact with our hand, Matt.

[@evilwelshman]

@scholagladiatoria Great video and explanation on the subject. And while on the subject of comparing which is "easier" to use, another idea I'd like to see is if you were able to compare and contrast between sabers and tulwars; on how they're similar and if there's enough there for one to be seen as "easier" to use over the other. I think it's an interesting topic to cover as I've heard how some British officers would opt for tulwars when serving in India or with Indian troops; which raises the question if one was necessarily "better" over the other and/or how interchangeable they were in the hands of an officer (who'd presumably been trained to use a saber).

[@claudiodominguez.]

A huge determining factor is the difference in sword/human body weight between European and Oriental. You could have a sword custom made like a fine three piece suit tailored to your body measurements. In a military armory the infantry sword was probably one size for ease of rapid and quantity production. IMHO.

[@asa-punkatsouthvinland7145]

I do agree that katanas are easier to cut for especially for beginners then manybswords, especially European ones. I started collect swords 26 years ago. For years I just cut random stuff. Small pine tree saplings, cheap thin frying pans, rolls of thin carpet, cardboard tubes, pork etc. Some food targets, some bad Fortunately I found a large bamboo grove near where I live around around 15 or more years ago. Simply put i mostly have cut bamboo over the years and only in the last couple years tried water bottles & pool noodles.... Fresh, green, supple bamboo is easy to cut with most anything; need with a rather dull edge. Fresh, but hard green bamboo is quiet hard to cut on. Generally you won't cut through it & you will feel the shock. Don't cut yellow bamboo if you value your wrists or swords! *Note since for years I had enough fresh bamboo at the Grove to cut on I've never actually taken hardened green bamboo, cut it down and soaked it overnight to cut later. But I believe that's how it's traditionally done. Cutting US milk hugs is easy. Cutting 2-liter soda bottles is a bit harder & needs a finer edge. Cutting pool noodles definitely needs a good edge, good edge alignment & speed. Basically bamboo cuts essentially the same as live bone live bone and dead bone are not the same substance. But if you really want to find out how easy it is to cut with a weapon versus the intended target go out and buy a good fresh piece of pork with the skin on that has a bone in it and cut it it is scary how easy even a small somewhat doleblade can take apart that type of target.

[@arthurclaymore8999]

It might seem a strange question but: I recall the Richard Chamberlin series SHOGUN. In scene the hero fights on a Japanese ship. He has a katana but, it seems, is trained in some European school of swordsmanship. He fights holding the katana in one hand like it was a rapier. So the question is: If you had a unfamiliar weapon, would you use it as you had been trained, even if that did not suit the weapon, or would you use it the way the weapon was designed to be used, even if you were never trained to fight that way?

[@adamroodog1718]

I think its a great example of the differences between European martial arts vs asian martial arts. Being that in European fighting the thrust, the jab, the straight atack is given more weight than the asian style slash getting more attention and being more favoured.

[@youtubevoice1050]

I wouldn't say so. It's hard to tell why the Japanese were so conservative when it comes to swords. The Chinese had much more diversity in their weapons, so it's clearly not just a Europe vs. Asia situation.

[@marcuszc3172]

@@youtubevoice1050 why is that hard? Japan is an island and was closed of...

[@adamroodog1718]

KZbin voice, you should watch some kung fu masters vs mma fighters. I always like to imagine a boxer with a rapier and dagger insted of gloves.

[@youtubevoice1050]

@Marcusz c. Japan was not closed off during its entire history. There was trade with the main land. Kung fu was imported as well. The Mongolians tried to invade etc. Japanese armor did evolve, yet the katana remained pretty much the same for the longest time.

[@youtubevoice1050]

@Adam Roodog. Kung Fu contains a wide variety of wildly different styles. Northern styles focus more on kicks, Southern styles more on boxing.

[@ShimomuraTakezoWong]

Every weapon in the world, which ever country, bladed or firearms is as good as it's handler depending on the training, muscle memory and the years behind that particular platform in any given situation night/day.

[@Farweasel]

I thought that was a very balanced presentation and would pretty much come to the same conclusion.... But (you did know there was a but coming) ... Worth a mention that with a little practice, with a European Longsword you do have the option for a 'surprise extension' of the blade length by 'throwing' it through your partly open hands so your left hand comes off the end and your right catches the butt. The longer the grip (handle) the further you can unexpectedly extend it to stab. Well, OK on the dowside, you probably wouldn't need to be thinking of doing that unless your opponent had a similar sword, which means they'll know the trick too and might even expect it. And if you miss you have a weakness because with one hand on the sword leverage favours your opponent with two hands on their sword. Still. Seemed an interesting enough point to be worth a mention.

[@azvoltmanphoenix446]

My katana takes glock 19 mags..........but great video and info! Thank you!

[@ricwalker6600]

My personal rather short answer: The Katana is normaly not a primary weapon. that was the Yari and Bow and the Katana was the backup, thus it is rather easy to understand and to use. The Longsword is a primary weapon so it has to be well thought out to be versatile to accomplish its tasks under a lot of circumstances. So you not only have a blade and a pointy end, but a pummel and a crossguard to use as weapons. that makes it harder to learn, but mastered the more effective weapon of both.

[@edi9892]

Could you please make a video on where swords were sharpened? I had a lengthy discussion arguing about which blades need only to be sharpened at the upper half, or even 1/3rd. On a related note, it really surprises me how many blade masters still believe that Xian have to be whippy (and always were) and Dao should be as heavy as possible (big ones beyond 10kg) and that you can't half sword blades unless you're talking about blunt European ones...

[@JustGrowingUp84]

Do those people truly deserve to be called "blade masters"...?

[@edi9892]

@@JustGrowingUp84 Well, they beat me in a duel any time... Plus, some have fancy degrees and are head of schools... What really pisses me off, though is that I once tried to argue with facts and was willing to bring forth evidence, and someone declined asking me, if I disrespected his authority as the leader of a school! I know it´s wrong and he keeps repeating it and I have to watch in silence...

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@@edi9892 They sound like wushu "masters". Many of the modern Chinese martial arts (both armed and unarmed) are very "sportified" and don't have much in common with their historical origins. I remember this story about a Chinese MMA dude who went around China and challenged so called kung-fu "masters", and defeated them, to prove that they teach bullshit. Of course, China being China, this lowered his social credit score so he couldn't travel that easily anymore...

[@JustGrowingUp84]

@@edi9892 Found him, google: Xu Xiaodong

[@edi9892]

@@JustGrowingUp84 thanks. I still respect some old styles though. Especially kongfu has practitioners who pushed the limits of the human body to insane levels.

[@KevDaly]

The discussion of centre of percussion was a reminder that the designers of leaf-shaped blades knew what they were about. Not just pretty.

[@corneredfox]

Leaf-shaped blades were more about increasing mass near the tip for improving cutting power on shorter swords, with the increased mass providing greater momentum. They existed to an extent with swords roughly the length of the gladius (which a few designs have a subtle leaf-shape to them, often referred to as being "waisted"), but disappear almost entirely on longer swords. The vibration nodes don't really factor into such blades, as their small lengths prevent them from being affected by it.

[@ivarbaratheon264]

I guess katana is better for chopping but I'd pick a longsword Vs a katana any day. The guard and double edge and ability to thrust is so much more convenient

[@mockupguy3577]

I have some experience but not much. In a post apocalyptic scenario I would first choose a shield + any suitable sword or ax. That is assuming I would predominantly meet people with even less experience and armed with both tools and weapons.

[@somnorila9913]

I don't know if i saw this comparison on this channel or somewhere else. But i remember that the "best" sword is the european model. If i remember exactly, the idea is that a sword is a jack of all trades kind of weapon, used more for self defense or duels and stuff like that, not actual warfare. And from that perspective, the longsword checks the most squares. Like it can thrust, the balance is better for experience fighters and novices. Because having the central weights closer to your hand helps you control the weapon better, which makes a master really accurate and a novice able to defend easier.

[@somnorila9913]

@@corneredfox I'm not so sure. People use axes and knives in daily tasks. Some use axes more and some use knives more. But using any of them as a weapon i suppose it entitles a certain mindset, even if you have no experience. You imagine at least how to use it. And draw from your daily tasks experience. You use that knowledge. A sword can trigger your experience with both tools because it's a mix of the two. Depending on the weight distribution you might be find it more intuitive to use it as an axe or a big knife. Which really is ultimately. Hence stabbing doesn't seem that much out of the question, specially when the opponent is not armed. I can see broad erratic movements, like using an axe, when the novice fights someone armed. But because he's a novice i guess he will tend to defend more than attack, thus having the balance closer to the hilt makes it easier to move the weapon. Not to mention the fact that being a novice has less or no training with a sword and he could get tired faster, which again having the balance closer, the weapon seems easier to control when you are starting to get tired.

[@Entiox]

If you just want to hit something why not get a mace? I'm kidding, of course there are plenty of reasons to pick a sword over a mace. But I just had a mace from Tod's Workshop delivered today and I really want to go hit something with it.

[@wumpusthehunted2628]

I'd want a shield with such a mace. Also the mace is the oldest weapon (not used for hunting) found in archeology, so it should be pretty natural. Also if you want to use Matt's "noob cut", a baseball bat will do a lot of damage without requiring any edge alignment.

[@Entiox]

@@wumpusthehunted2628 oh yeah, definitely want a shield with a mace. That lack of guard, and nimbleness, pretty much demands it.

[@uncleouch9795]

I think it's all in what you train with. We do Tsuka ate, or Pommel strikes also, just a bit differently.

[@asa-punkatsouthvinland7145]

Okay so I'm rewatching this video and the line where Matt says that the katana might be easier for beginners because it is more favorable to a instinctual downward chop make sense. But I wonder if this also partially helps explain why some people in Europe preferred single-handed swords? There's the old stereotype that archers carried falcons which the fashion is not exclusively in Archer's weapon of course. But if you were either a peasant conscripted into an army or an Archer whose primary role is ballistics perhaps choosing a sword that does better with an instinctual fighting style is what you go for? If you don't train very much to use an edged weapon a fashion with a downward chop especially if fighting other lightly armored opponents might be a much better choice than a double-edged cruciform sword. We also know that in Germany the messers became popular first with the lower classes and then with the upper classes. Yes Messer seemed to be side knives everyday tools that just kept getting bigger. But maybe the reason that longer messers were popular is that if you're not spending a lot of time training to use a sort of any type a Messer might be easier to use? Of course later manual show us techniques taught in schools which are very complicated systems but not everybody was taking lessons and certainly if you're part of lower classes you might not be able to afford to take lessons so a choppy choppy big knife might be what you need.

[@dragonlancer1909]

It be nice if you reviewed that dynasty forge katana. Always liked the look of their katana with the 32 inch blades

[@trappychan]

On the other hand, I'd argue the Longsword is easier to use *against other (melee) weapons* because it's nimbler, has a more defensive guard, pommel/guard to hit at close range, and better at thrusting so safer/better at longer range. Also easier to use with a shield or buckler!

[@JustGrowingUp84]

Sure, but for someone without any training, will they be able to capitalize on the advantages of the longsword? Edited for spelling.

[@edi9892]

I think an important aspect is whether you need to parry incoming attacks. If you're up against zombies or ambush a gunner, you want something that does sufficient damage in one swing, whereas if you need it for defense, that authoritive cut becomes sluggishness... That's why I think that a Kukri is a very good choice for modern close combat, or home defense.

[@troyjeffrey4311]

Have there been any legitimate telescoping blade designs in more modern times? I can't get over just how important reach is so to be able to have a blade that can be small enough to carry without being anywhere near cumbersome whilest having the advantage of being to extend to suit your scenario is something I'm sure many dreamed of in the past and disregarded as impossible. I wonder if its feasible with today's technological advances...

[@emeralddragongaming2930]

I'm always asking myself what is that kidney looking item on the door near the shield is it a weapon or just a flask, by the way excellent video as always.

[@john-paulsilke893]

Emerald Dragon Gaming looks like a South or Central American Aztec weapon.

[@emeralddragongaming2930]

@@john-paulsilke893 interesting I would never thought of that 👍maybe we should ask him.

[@john-paulsilke893]

No obvious obsidian or sharpened bone on the edges but this is a significant possibility. Although I don’t know much about Irish clubs/maces there are some possibilities there as well.

[@casbot71]

Just an observation on using a longer katana for this. When you compare the average height of a Japanese man and European man in the same mediaeval period your choice makes sense. If you were to consider the blade length versus height of the average wielder of the swords, the ratios would be about the same. A katana wasn't traditionally used by a approximately 6 foot tall individual. Still it would be interesting to check historical data for average height and then work out the true ratio of sword to swordsman. Perhaps as an addendum to this video.

[@corneredfox]

The average knight was around 5'10", with a longsword's blade length averaging around 36". The average samurai was around 5'5", with a katana's blade length averaging around 26-28". Modern katana made for Western consumption tend to be between 28-30", reflecting the taller stature of the "target demographic." Flip-side katana for iaido tend to be shorter. At 6'3" I believe a proper iaito for me is no longer than 32" in blade length if I remember correctly.

[@ZidVault]

But which weapon is easier to LEARN how to use? I practice HEMA, I haven't practiced with japanese swords, but I would argue that european longsword techniques are probably more complex and varied, because of the use of both edges of the blade, for example in the schielhau or zwerchhau, and the use of the crossguard to catch or move the blade of the opponent's sword in some techniques, so I would say it might be more difficult to learn how to use the european longsword compared to the katana.

[@JustGrowingUp84]

+

[@chrishayes6359]

Mainly the Japanese blade lighter so in long term it's better. But we'll give you the upkeep is a little more.

[@m.kultra4101]

Japanese fencing is more ready available for practice and competition as well. Every large city has a kendo club for all ages to practice at.

[@richcastle6796]

I’d defiantly want the thrusting option offered by the long sword!

[@Talishar]

First of all, I would only venture to guess that the katana's length was generally shorter because the people who wielded them were also generally shorter by a very noticeable degree. They had access to longer swords, but they never saw mainstream favor for a sword nearly as long as they were in total length hanging off their hips. Especially for a sidearm. I would also say that the longsword would be a better weapon for a noob. It's more neutral balance makes it easier to recover for when they inevitably miss the swing and the sharpened false edge means that they're still dangerous pulling the sword back to reset for another swing which can be reset quicker as well. It actually takes a bit of skill and training to chain a second cut to bring the katana back into the initial overhead ready position that the longsword can do intuitively without the change in grip and footwork to do it well with a katana.

[@Isambardify]

Might the beginner benefit from the great big cross guard on the longsword? If you don't know the technical ways to keep your hands safe you might prefer them behind a steel bar.

[@Ezyasnos]

I guess one will quickly become a noob in stress situations. But then there's still the point of the crossguard vs. the tsuba. Then again the saber has both this noob-friendlyness and good handprotection. No wonder it eventually has become the no. 1 sword of choice, even in Japan

[@jonathanh4443]

There is an old Chinese saying 'It takes a week to learn a Dao (read Sabre), a month to learn a spear, and a year to learn a jian (read straight sword.)' While I appreciate the discussion and many credits given to each blade, the fact is I can teach someone to be competent on a Sabre much faster than I can on a Longsword (if you allow me to bring Rapier into the discussion it really is a year.) That's the key point I see related to this one. If you were doing a video on which a easier to use a Longsword or a Sabre how would your answer change? I'd like to see a discussion on Sabre vs Katana, if you haven't already done one.

[@eagle162]

If you're using it in the context where the Dao is partnered with a shield yeah it's easier to learn then a Jian, outside of that However it depends on the person on which is easier to learn.

[@cheezus4772]

Would a falchion then be a decent middle-ground between the two? Most would have the curved top-heavy nature of katana helping with cutting and chopping but can also come with a sharp point to make thrusting as viable as with a long sword.

[@tjsogmc]

Yes, some weapons are easier to use than others. That's why armies use guns.

[@anthonyalonzo5725]

I know this focused on usability, but what about robustness? In other words, which breaks easier when not handled properly? I've done a lot of HEMA like fighting and seen many many noobs not just swinging like they have a baseball bat, but also waving the sword in front of themselves like they are trying to shoo a particularly large fly away. They have their eyes all or mostly closed and tend to hit things willy nilly. Things like trees, polls or walls, not just squishy people. Speaking of that, a dual edged weapon favors waving a sword around in front of you. That would help with the back swing having a chance to do some real damage. Not much, I know, but something is better then nothing. Ultimately, I don't think either of those is terribly good for a noob. I think their performance suffers greatly from a lack of skill. Unlike a short weapon of some kind which is much more forgiving of mistakes. But if it is one of those two, I think you're first statement about their usability would be most accurate. It doesn't really matter.

[@etiennesauve3386]

I think it might be easier for an untrained person to make multiple consecutive attacks with a longsword because of the double edge. With the katana you often have to rotate the weapon to realign the edge. While this becomes a reflex when you are trained, it may be a bit more difficult for a beginner

[@daaaah_whoosh]

I would argue that it takes some amount of skill to make good use of the back edge. For a total beginner, I'd be fine giving them a single edge so they don't get tempted to try something that they won't be able to cut effectively with.

[@etiennesauve3386]

@@daaaah_whoosh You are not wrong but the same could be said for a regular forward strike. The hand grip will surely be wrong, the weight tranfer not synchronised with the cut and so on. Using a katana like a baseball bat is not making good use of it and will lower it's effectiveness but is good enough for this scenario.

[@angryzombie8088]

Katana is definitely is easier to use, to sheath & to draw, easier maintenance because it have 1 edge, easier to move with it because its curved & probably lighter.

[@abcdef-cs1jj]

I've no real experience with either (or any other swords for that matter) but I imagine that it might be more awkward to stab with the Katana ... I don't know how true this is for somebody that actually knows what they are doing, I guess Japanese warriors employed thrusts as well. It's just something that would make it seem easier to use the longsword properly for me as a noob.

[@TariasNiniel]

Nice comparison ... i honestly love them both but i tend to kinda like the cutty blades a bit more in general (my favorite european sword might be the kriegsmesser) .... And (i know you will love what im saying now) ... again its all about context again, isnt it? ^^ I also like katanas for what they were. I believe part of the design in terms of how they balanced... that theyre quite thick and topheavy... also makes them RELATIVELY efficient against armor (at least for a sword) coz theyre kinda a bit "macelike". Also i think its important in a real life-death situation type of fight (even with just light armor), you should never underestimate the value of concussive force when it comes to stopping the attacker as quick as possible without him beeing still able to hit you back. in terms of cutting in a fight I think the tradeoff basically is: its easier to hit and wound somebody with a more nimble weapon... but if you hit with the topheavier stiffer blade, you can be more asure that the hit did a lot of damage. In terms of Parrying techniques though... i did Korean swordfight (with a jingum - thats design wise a "Katana like sword" ) ... and there we never tended to get into bindings... i believe in kendo its similar... that you actually hitting the enemys weapon hard (with side or back of the own blade) to "shock-push" it out of the way. Of coz that kind of technique doesnt work as well with very flexible swords coz your momentum wont be transferred as well into the enemys weapon coz lot of it gets absorbed by the vibration of the own sword then. ^^

[@LuxisAlukard]

Is this the begining of a series of videos? Like tournament knockout? That would be great, and we would found out which is the best sword for begginers =)