Why the Katana is a GREAT sword!

Katana a great swords and here's why.
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[@joshjones6063]

Great video as always Shad. The people who thought that you hated the katana from previous videos obviously weren't paying enough attention to what you were saying. There is a huge difference between hating something and debunking obvious "fan fic".

[@inthefade]

Some people just lack subtle comprehension skills or are too impatient and lack focus. They hear one or two things that piss them off and then go off on a tangent. Thankfully in this community they are a small minority. And honestly, it opens up discussion and debate, so it isn’t even necessarily a bad thing that people are contrarian or obtuse sometimes.

[@Koushakur]

Well to be fair, Shad has as of late, other than this video, been _mostly_ negative when katanas come up in discussion. If you haven't watched him for years then it's extremely understandable that the take-away would be that he dislikes katanas.

[@capitalistamalvadao4278]

@@Koushakur It is not his fault though. Katanas ARE overrated by Samurai Fanboys.

[@andressierra457]

Making this hypothetical longer, cross-guarded, spring-steel Super-Katana would be a pretty sweet video. 😏

[@shiyotso1]

You mean a Messer?

[@dhanu_4539]

​@@shiyotso1the handle, blade profile blade curve ect would be different....I think the messer is much wider and thinner

[@Pepe-pq3om]

​@@dhanu_4539how could it be wider and thinner at the same time?

[@eternalemperorvalkorion750]

That’s an interesting sounding yugioh card

[@TrevFirestorm]

@@Pepe-pq3om wider flat, thinner spine

[@tomvandongen8075]

I remember Matt Easton examining what historical European swordsmen had to say about katanas and funnily enough, at least one writer specifically called out the grip as being a very good feature

[@huntermad5668]

Through that focus on the superior gripiness not about the vibration

[@granddaddy_funk]

​@@huntermad5668you can edit comments lol. I wanted to respond in case you were lonely.

[@SeanCrosser]

​@@huntermad5668 I wonder if it has anything to do with how older katanas usually only had one pin, would the second pin help with their impression on the handling?

[@huntermad5668]

@@SeanCrosser No, it is about the construction allowed for much better grip when u sweated a lot and other things. You could look it up

[@completelyferrouschemist6776]

@@SeanCrosser The mekugi pin in there is really sturdy. Bamboo can be a tough wood and they used it to hold their sword's blades in place for a reason. It's not a tiny scrap of chopstick, despite the way it looks.

[@SetuwoKecik]

I just love that the phase of swords enthusiasts basically goes: Normie: "Katana is the best sword ever! It can cuts through boulders!" Edgy: "Katana is overrated! Animes were lying!" Enlightened: "Myths aside, Katana is actually a pretty good sword."

[@ArifRWinandar]

Rivers are rivers and mountains are mountains

[@SetuwoKecik]

@@ArifRWinandar Apples and oranges.

[@RavenWolffe77]

Broke, Woke, and Bespoke takes, respectively.

[@DeHerg]

Enlightened+: swords(incl katanas) are generally overrated, pollarms are better

[@Mygg_Jeager]

​@@RavenWolffe77but in what order.

[@Unpainted_Huffhines]

Katanas are great at doing the things katanas were designed to do. People mistakenly think that debunking mall-ninja "facts" about how katanas are super light, unbreakable, and can slice through the space-time continuum, means that they're saying they aren't good swords.

[@OtaniNoAsagi]

Some people actually do buy into the "they're horrible swords and should never be used" mindset. I've ran into a select few like this. Also If anyone thinks a Katana is super light they never held a real one.

[@PJDAltamirus0425]

@@OtaniNoAsagi ....Video games such has final fantasy seven for depict non katanas as clunkers and a very early of katanas being super light comes from Rouni Kenshin, the main character is an Ex assassin,man slayer, is very skinny, the director of the series gave him his X scar just to make somewhat tough, and koes behind infrequently larger than him cus his basically move at the speed of sound. Other early ones of the katanas are super light are kill bill and the matrixes movies.

[@mansfieldtime]

Even as a kid I liked their look but I wanted a cross-guard. So some falchion designs happen to be my favorite looking swords.

[@BattleChicken-ij2qs]

Its a fantastic Razor blade. If I need to cut something Katana is the one. Other then that nope.

[@TheAngryAsianAnimations]

If I had to be honest, I sorta just have to take people's words that this stuff is said about the katana. This idea that it's super light and can cut everything? I've never seen it. Instead I've always ever heard how it was the single worst sword in history only kept because the Japanese wanted to maintain tradition, that it was so garbage that there was a cultural revolution in Feudal Japan as the samurai wanted to get ride of their trashy katanas in exchange for superior european longswords (along with stories of how the samurai lost 15 out of 16 duels against european knights and only won one because the knight was drunk and how once 60 european knights held off a force of 2 thousand samurai). Along with that I I always see people claim that you can only cut with it 3 times before the blade becomes unusable, how you cannot block with a katana because if two katanas ever clashed the blades woudl break and you would instead have to simply try to land a hit without any sort of defensive action, that if the katana hti anything that wasn't human flesh it would either snap or crumple like a tin can, So maybe it's that. Like I said, I've never seen anyone really hype up the katana except out of being ironic. Then you find videos going "the katanas is not as great as people make it out to be". If I didn't know shad before I probably would've assumed it's just another katana basher.

[@mlmf2012]

Shad should make the Shadkatana, a katana with a cross guard, o-katana length and handle wrap, spring steel, and a welded/screwed pommel. Lets test a fusion of the best aspects of the katana and the longsword

[@SpiritualHypertrophy]

I thought this too. He could use the same tsuba and weld iron bar stock in line with the edge to put a crossguard on it. He could also peen the grip more durably than a traditional menuki with copper bar stock.

[@blacksnapper7684]

I’m thinking o-kissaki with a suguha hamon, 32 in blade 14 in Tsuka with a deep navy blue Tsuka-ito over worn white Samegawa, the fitting are gold and it should be shobu-zukuri with a sori from the edo period (so not too curved actually it would be pretty straight) Niku style edge, with one bohi the actual wrap itself would be a iro chigai Jabara and of course the “cross guard” would be a tachi “style” cross guard (the ones that are actually a cross guard instead of the more conventional round square diamonds etc tsuba) and I’m thinking a shield for the Menuki…. Sorry I’m very into this stuff

[@Mutski1579]

I'm imagining a katana with a 100 cm blade, no hamon, crossgaurd with katana handgrip and a Skallagrim Special pommel. 😂

[@patriarchs.9237]

Bro that's just a europran longsword with some katana handle wrap

[@aaronandrewmonterola7394]

there already have one that is close.. it's a messer.

[@arthurgoetz9543]

I have a challenge for you @Shadiversity. I'm an apprentice Japanese armorer here in the US, and I do things about as traditionally as it gets. I'd be willing to make a helmet for you to do some destructive testing. Bear in mind it's months of work on my end, and it's expensive in terms of materials. So it'd be better to do something a bit simpler, and more representative of an average quality helmet. I think this is better for testing purposes anyways. I focus on 16th century Ko-tousei kabuto, but I might be open to other styles and eras depending. That part is up to you! I want it tested on a gel torso, not sitting flat on a table and having someone hammer on it with an axe. I'd like to see it tested against contemporary European weapons depending on what type of helmet it is. All I want on my end is a fair test of my work, and to get the helmet back at the end for analysis. I'm tired of hearing people say in the mainstream that Japanese armor is ineffective or low quality, so I think a transparent and objective test of it is the best way to settle it. My business is called Saika Armory. Feel free to check it out on Facebook or Instagram.

[@ishidamitsunari3808]

This sounds interesting. Shad should try it, lmfao. The kabuto will withstand anything against it.

[@93xxlolxx]

@@ishidamitsunari3808 They should definitely do it.

[@ishidamitsunari3808]

@@93xxlolxx Indeed.

[@sonofabeach711]

Yes! Armor and matchlocks needs more representation. Japanese Matchlocks and their martial arts styles are widely underrated.

[@redwa11er]

This is a wonderful idea. So many modern replicas are NOT truly authentic in their construction methods.

[@lmccampbell]

It is interesting looking at what arms and armors medieval Japanese importers valued and used alongside traditional arms and armor. I forget the museum but I remember seeing a katana blade with a European style guard.

[@Underworlddream]

Weapons and armors travel, so they're mish mash all the time. There a Japanese samurai armour that incorporated European armor parts into it because it was more bullets proof then their native Japanese armor. There old African swords that used blades from European Swords.

[@jesuizanmich]

From 1875 to 1934, the Japanese ceremonial military sword (gunto) was much like the Western sabres of the time. These were Japanese blades with chrome-plated metal scabbards and Western-style sabre hilts with D-shaped knuckle-bows. Search for "kyu gunto" (旧軍刀, i.e. "old" gunto). With the rise of nationalism (and worsening diplomatic relations with the west), the "shin gunto" (i.e. "new" gunto) replaced the Western style gunto. The new gunto was inspired by the Tachi.

[@eagle162]

​@@Underworlddreamit wasn't because of bullet-resistant their native armor could do the job just as good, it was done because it was a unique and exotic armor that made somebody stand out the same was thing with ming and Korean helmets, was a bit rare and most the time was actually made in Japan.

[@petriew2018]

@@eagle162 it was also a prestige factor. Importing shit was hard in medieval japan, so wearing a sword you clearly got from as far away as europe was a way to really flaunt your wealth and power. Even before the shogunate period chinese made swords and armor was highly sought after for this reason.

[@atom8248]

@@Underworlddream That's not true. Nanban armor entered japan after the japanese already started making bulletproof armor.

[@carlothecoffeeguy3778]

Shad: Local Reverend: err... That's not a sin Shad, everyone likes katanas

[@christopherjones7023]

Bless this comment

[@VegetaLF7]

Exactly. Katanas are great. They're not the best sword, but then again no sword is. There is no perfect sword that is the best at everything, just ones that do certain jobs better than others.

[@AncestorEmpireGaming]

The Katana only works when you have: white hair, a lawn chair, it’s raining outside, and when you’re motivated by “Bury The Light”

[@ThisJWord]

Thats Tachi not Katana

[@AncestorEmpireGaming]

@@ThisJWord rules still apply

[@odinsrensen7460]

Shad was pretty close to that in this video, so just give it another two decades.

[@AncestorEmpireGaming]

@@odinsrensen7460 dad jokes sold separately

[@Archdornan9001]

I feel motivated

[@static-noise]

Shad, I think the length of the Katana is actually an advantage in its original context. It was either a personal defence weapon in civilian life or a sidearm in battle. As such most of its working life would be spent hanging at the side of its owner getting in the way. A shorter blade would reduce the disruption it caused, even if it meant that it didn't quite have as much reach in the event it had to be drawn.

[@Ghorda9]

also if it was too long you wouldn't be able to draw it without using a different sheathing style.

[@trathanstargazer6421]

So it would be better to compare a katana to an arming sword in this regard.

[@atom8248]

@@Ghorda9 Yes, having it stuck through the sash means it's very convenient, it barely moves while walking and doesn't interfere with your legs, but if you want to draw a long blade wearing it edge down is better. There is a common myth that the "the katana must be worn edge up or the gods will be angry and kill your dog!!" or whatever, but it was very common to wear katana edge down bound with rope or through a leather device that's basically a sword frog.

[@CaseyBartley]

@@Ghorda9 this is a common misconception. There are techniques to draw longer lengths (within reason) quickly depending on ryu practiced, also the option for drawing whatever shoto you carried for a quicker, shorter weapon. Edo period you couldn't carry anything over 33-34ish inches anyway.

[@sworddomo1951]

Is the length there to fight over horses and pole arms? Since it'd be used by higher ranking samurai vs. pole arms for non high ranking members? They would have to reach from an elevation and a longer distance enemy.

[@tabull8180]

This video was much better than I expected. Concrte points with no unecessary stuff added. Especially the takes about the edge aligment were especially interesting.

[@eagle_and_the_dragon]

They've always been aesthetically pleasing. With more modern smithing equipment and western metals; they've become a more competitive sword.

[@mrgrumboldt]

9260 spring steel katana

[@dragonapop]

what are western metals??

[@mrgrumboldt]

@@dragonapop Metals made with non-crap iron.

[@Wishuponapancake]

@@mrgrumboldt iron is iron

[@dragonapop]

@@mrgrumboldt Shad said in the video that the metal, used for making katanas, was not crap

[@ArrakisHeir88]

brits and aussies: americans talk funny also brits and aussies: katanerer better than i thought

[@mudageki]

NOUR~!

[@Tounushi]

The fascinating thing with katanas is that you can store the blade long-term. The blade is the heart and soul of the sword and you can store it in what is essentially a deep storage plain wooden sheath and handle and put it in the pimped out furniture when you're getting ready to use or display it. You can't really do the same with western swords. You have to wrap the whole sword as-is.

[@davejones9469]

Another important thing about the grip is that you can grip it better even if your hands and/or handle is soaked in blood. The cloth aspect of it helps most by absorbing some blood but still keeping a fairly coarse surface. I started factoring that in after apprenticing as a butcher...a good handle can make or break any blade made for any purpose. For example, you always want a knife with a hand guard to stop your hand from sliding up the blade during any stabbing motion. It can be a problem in butchery if you stub your knife on something with a wet hand/handle.

[@dangingerich2559]

In Japan during the Warring States era, there was very little metal armor. The hardened armor they had was mostly wood and leather. Katanas having that much harder edge lasted longer because they were not used against targets with any metal armor. Chipping wasn't as much of a problem as it was in Europe at the time.

[@eagle162]

None of that is true.

[@luttara644]

As i've been lead the understand part of the reason for the handle design on the katana is because the blade was the hardest part about them to make, so the fittings(wrap, handle, tsuba, etc) were meant to be replaced, that way if they broke or were damaged significantly, it didn't take the blade with it.

[@svesnimajmun2731]

Also, it was never the only weapon on you, and extra side arm, the wakizashi or tanto was always there. just the same in europe with a dagger

[@usetoothless9473]

I own a katana and really enjoy cutting with it! You’ve had awesome content lately.

[@potatomatop9326]

As an Ancient Dark Samurai Master, i can confirm that Katanas are great.

[@travisfoxvr6584]

Tachi ... Lol

[@xeternalxdreamsx]

😂 Can I be your apprentice, m'lord? 😋

[@sanderson9338]

I prefer the bastard sword personally even though it stole my name

[@SetuwoKecik]

As as as, as as as.

[@SevenRedSuns1296]

As a sekiro fan I agree

[@asahearts1]

If I had to have a bladed weapon which I carried around all the time, indoors and out, in a scenario where not a lot of people wore armor and I might have to fight at a moment's notice but not every day, I couldn't think of a better weapon.

[@gamer_eza47]

I could think of a couple of equally good options tbh

[@asahearts1]

@@gamer_eza47 I can think of good ones, but the benefit of the katana is that the length and curvature (and the way it's traditionally worn) make it really good for cutting in the draw, which I see as a huge bonus for defensive use. You can do the same with other rather short swords, but imo the katana is just a little better at it. Would love to hear other people's choices, though.

[@josueroberto7356]

So if you were a samurai during the Edo Period?

[@asahearts1]

​​​​@@josueroberto7356Yes. But if I knew I had a fight coming I would pick a longer weapon, so long as I could get away with it socially, though. Like that one guy Musashi beat up with the oar was known for using longer swords, and iirc the oar was longer and heavier, too. Edit: Probably would also be a good choice if you're a merchant or something in medieval Europe and are only worried about thugs and rioters, too. Basically any time it has to be worn all the time and you don't have someone actively coming after you or random full plate enemies busting down your door for some reason.

[@josueroberto7356]

@@asahearts1 Well during Edo, legally a samurai could only get away with a katana and wakizashi (of specified maximum length too) barring special circumstances, so those are factors to take into consideration when reviewing traditional katana. Or in the case of Musashi’s unfortunate opponent, perhaps you can get away with using longer weapons as long as the Shogunate didn’t catch you doing it. Also, interestingly the oar evolved into an actual weapon in Okinawa, called the Eku lol. Tho it’s basically still just a typical oar just flatter.

[@Venator1230]

Nice video Shad. I really appreciated the camera work, and your commentary is A+ You and your team have put forth exceptional effort in creating an interesting set and video. Thanks for what you do, thanks for entertaining and teaching us.

[@gingeradventure]

I'd love Shad to do a test with fresh handmade weapons provided by journeyman smiths.

[@odinsrensen7460]

Really, this is the absolutely most insightful video of Katanas I've ever seen. Bravo.

[@hernerweisenberg7052]

Regarding the edge alignment due to the curved blade: Imo that comes into play during the acceleration of the blade, not during contact. If it is out of alignment during acceleration, there will be a twisting force helping to align it due to the mass being out of center. This force isnt strong enough to pull it into alignment on its own, even if you use a looser grip, but as you mentioned, it helps you feel the thing. If you were to mount it on a machanical testing device with the sword being able to rotate free, when you accelerate it, you should be able to see the blade align itself during the acceleration.

[@therussiancultist6289]

Love your Vids Shad and the crew, Keep up the amazing work!

[@thescholar-general5975]

Great video! I especially appreciate your comments about the blade geometry being one of the better features of the katana.

[@mriddley]

I said this before butnim happy for channels like this it's informative and tells you straight facts it doesn't insult you for what you like and doesn't have this smug "I'm better than you" attitude which I have been seeing a lot on other channels

[@Triring65]

The curve on the blade of a katana makes the blade "run out" from the sheath compared with a straight blade and there is a school or method called "Iai(居合）" starting a duel with the swords still placed within the Sheath. Iai makes it more difficult to measure the "kill zone/distance" since your katana is still stashed within the sheath and held straight back on the hip so the opponent can not visualize the correct length of the katana.

[@patriarchs.9237]

Ok and

[@artemiswallace8716]

@@patriarchs.9237 its an interesting tactic that could easily sway a duel in your favour.

[@Fantastic_Mr_Fox]

A thinner geometry also makes the edge easier to sharpen. But yes, more hardness means less toughness. Personally, for a sword, toughness is more important than hardness. But yeah a tougher spring steel O Katana with a guard would be *sick*, I would totally use that over a european alternative just for the overall sexiness of Katanas and their scabbards.

[@lucashayes346]

I started with the katana when I was much much younger because there were mall katanas that were cheap around and I just wanted to swing a piece of metal around, but I was still an internet baby so I would often look up proper care and maintenance as well how to practice with them. As I got older and actually found work and made my own money I bought what was considered at the time as a “mid-range” katana for $400 and it was amazing, lasted me quite a long time. Then I got into HEMA and German Longsword and the Meisterhau and spent a good long while figuring all that out, as well as branching out into fencing and saber, with a wide variety of very fine weapons. But I still come back to the Katana from time to time and work with it extensively where I can. Nearly 15 years of swordwork later and I still put Katana up there in the top 5 swords i’ve ever used, just gotta find your one

[@felx233]

Another thing that could be pointed out and that I have seen in some of your videos, is that even though it is a sword meant to cut, it is also quite good at stabbing

[@mansfieldtime]

I was FIANLLY notified of a video coming out within 12 hours of it being posted. PROGRESS. Now to watch. My guess, "No, you were not to harsh." They are cool blades and great for what they had... I mean look at their structures. Building out of necessity is common and we still do that so it was good for what they had and needed it for.

[@gusjanuary1729]

You should make a video like this talking about your absolute favorite sword. We all know you’re a long sword guy (I am as well) but more like picking your singular favorite sword. I’d love to see that!

[@bernardosilva7306]

I trained with the Katana my whole martial arts life (about 10 years now), never had the opportunity to work with western swords unfortunately (no HEMA in my city that I know). You briefly said something that was very interesting to me about blocking with the spine. I always thought that was the only correct way to block! Could you do a video about different blocking techniques depending on the sword design? That would be super interesting!!! Thanks!

[@thescholar-general5975]

In HEMA they usually block with the edge because the crossguard sticks out in the plane of the edge. Also if you have a two handed sword like a longsword it becomes hard to not do some deflecting with the edge every once in a while.

[@HyenaPlayGames]

Something that I have seen is the Japanese police saber, a Katana-like sword, but with a saber-like handle. We now await for you to place a crossguard on a Katana.

[@comradebork]

What in hell is a police saber useful for? Beheading jaywalkers?

[@johannesstephanusroos4969]

​@@comradeborkintimidation

[@rifleman2c997]

Would love to see a East meets west sword trying to combine the best features of both.

[@Sicarius888]

Don't we already have that? A kriegsmesser.

[@rifleman2c997]

@@Sicarius888 Hilt construction is a pint where I'd suggest Katana construction is better as they said theirs was uncomfortable.

[@LurkerDaBerzerker]

*Relevant and Supportive Comment, For the Algorithm*

[@jaytwokay3265]

Da boost

[@magister343]

One problem I have with the katana is that most modern examples have a disk guard that is very small compared to most historical examples. The diameter needs to be at least a centimeter or two larger than we usually see. The disk guard may not provide as much protection as a cross guard against blade strikes, but it needs to extend out further than the hand to prevent banging your knuckles against things.

[@thescholar-general5975]

I am not totally sold on Shad’s idea that the crossguard is generally better than the tsuba. I think that there is alot more complexity to the differences between the two than people generally assume. But so far, not many people have done a good job comparing/testing the pros and cons.

[@eagle162]

They got bigger and could definitely protect your hand just fine (arguably better) from blade strikes.

[@eagle162]

​@@thescholar-general5975it gets even more complex when you consider cross-guards exist in East Asia.

[@DH-xw6jp]

If you are using a sword in a way that you are banging your knuckles on things, no amount of guard will help you.

[@magister343]

@@DH-xw6jp Swordsmen banging their knuckles was super common when in fights against opponents proactively using shields.

[@KairuHakubi]

I'm starting to wonder if those boasts about a katana just gliding through a bunch of bodies was really just a reference to how comfortable the grip is while doing it

[@addictedtochocolate920]

As someone who has struggled immensely in the last year or so to finally admit i like Katanas as much as Longswords, i appreciate this video. Coming out of the weeb closet isn't easy

[@anderporascu5026]

Wise people are often closeted by the egocentric and we need more egos diminished.

[@addictedtochocolate920]

@@anderporascu5026 that's true. i used to be one of those guys who made fun out of people for liking Japanese culture in general when i first joined the sword community. It's really a matter of trying things and different perspectives; accepting the fact that you don't have to reject other's knowledge in order to validate yours.

[@anderporascu5026]

@@addictedtochocolate920 Same reality with the science world or any field of expertise.

[@AshersAesera]

Weeb!

[@anderporascu5026]

@@AshersAesera could you add FREAK to that? That shout what a letdown 😆

[@shiyotso1]

We also forget the polish that's put into the katana, not just how it's setup, but the actual blade polishing. It helps the katana smooth out rougher portions of its edge bevels and helps reduce drag in the cut.

[@Irongarrison.5764]

The Katakana is over inflated, but its still a sword and Sword are Awesome.

[@DamienDusk]

I've heard claims that the curve assists with drawing and sheathing and would love to see that tested in comparison to a comparable straight blade

[@thychozwart2451]

Simply thinking, absolutely yeah, the curve allows you to draw it up out of the sheathe easier and swing witb it right away, without needing to keep the sheathe straight as much, a quick draw with a straight blade would force you to keep the blade reasonably perpendicular to it, at least until a certain point, possibly resulting in a slower draw and cut

[@atom8248]

It makes some difference, but basically barely matters, the act of drawing is pretty much a straight motion until you're out of the scabbard. There are some nearly straight and even straight katana (for example kinnoto) and they work just fine.

[@DamienDusk]

@atom8248 it's more about the time it takes to attack. And the straight blades that work well on draw are shorter in my experience. There are entire fighting styles for katana that rely on rapid draw. I would like to see the concept of to the test.

[@otterfire4712]

I think the solution for straight swords is the blade will be triangular in shape so that as you draw or sheathe the sword, the narrow tip has wiggle room along the sheathe and can be settled in when completely sheathed. This leads to quick and easy sword drawing and sheathing.

[@thac0twenty377]

just try it

[@V3RTIGO222]

Katanas were generally made from shit iron... But the master craftsman were able to remove a lot of impurities from it through a lot of effort and artisanal "secret" techniques. The fact they were able to get some of the katanas as good as they did without access to spring steel is honestly kind of incredible in its own right. As a qualifier for 'shit iron', the sources of iron in Japan were geologically lower in quality than in other areas worldwide, but a lot of effort was put into purifying it

[@michaelterrell5061]

Hence why it was only used by the samurai. Not merely for the symbolism behind it, but also because the purifying process took a god awful amount of time and made a FANTASTIC weapon, but absolutely could not have done that for a lot of people.

[@taylankammer]

I've heard this claim many times now over the years, but some people now seem to be challenging it... What's the actual source of the claim? Are there any scientific studies from geology, mining, metallurgy, or other such fields of study, that have analyzed the quality and quantity of iron ore in Japan vs. other parts of the world? Some Wikipedia pages say that Japan mostly made steel from iron sand (satetsu), just like Shad explains here, and they say that this was rarely done in Europe (contrary to what Shad says, unless I misunderstood him), but the citations don't seem very plenty or scientific anyway...

[@danilooliveira6580]

most Katanas were traditionally made with iron sand as the source of the iron, a lot of European swords were also made with steel made from iron sand. actually the best Scandinavian swords were made with imported steel from the middle east.

[@addictedtochocolate920]

​​@@michaelterrell5061t wasn't only used by the Samurai, unless you're talking about the Edo Period. During the Sengoku jidai many Ashigaru and none samurai combatant could own a katana as a secondary weapon. Their quality may have been indeed questionable though.

[@V3RTIGO222]

@@taylankammer I think shad meant that the quality/source of the originating iron doesn't necessarily equate to the end resulting quality of the sword as @michaelterrell5061 said before you.

[@beser12v66]

Love your contents! Hope you could continue. A point you might like to know - japanese sword practice (those i trained in) emphasize blocking with the sides of the sowrd, not just the back, using it's stiffness to protect the brittle edge, making the round tsuba more important since the sliding edge of the opponent sword is coming from the sides. like the nagle of Messers. It shows how different designs of swords results in different fighting styles and backwards Cheers!

[@drakecassell1840]

Excellent video once again and excellent explanation about the katana, people really can't say you're a hater now

[@Mygg_Jeager]

Number one thing I see/hear in conversations online and at Renaissance Fairs, is that most people giving opinions on blades have a very limited, if any understanding at all, of basic metallurgy. The quality of the iron has no impact on the quality of the steel that it can produce, it simply becomes more difficult and more time-consuming to produce something of equal quality, to that which came from a higher grade of iron. The other thing that people seem to not understand, is that any good carbon steel edge can be hardened to the point where it cuts through other, softer, cruder steel alloys. Then there's the bias of personal experience, just because someone owns a katana that cannot cut through steel, doesn't mean that other katanas can't. I literally have a job that uses carbide steel cutters to cleanly chop and slice other high grade steels, lol. And the oldest carbide sword has been traced back to year 1AD, in India... so they've been around for a hot minute.

[@raebertgrayson5766]

Another great video, Shad! However, I feel I need to correct a misconception about Japanese swordsmanship: there really are no blocks. The practitioner of kenjutsu is actually aiming to cut the opponent; movement is seen as the superior way to defend against an attack. That is the major reason katana (well, most Japanese swords, really) are designed the way they are, with their iconic shape. It confused me to no end, when I embarked on my journey of study. But I'll say this: however you may feel about that, if sure did help me lay many an opponent low when I began participating in heavy armored combat in the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA). My opponents would expect me to block after the European tradition (now, we used rattan replica weapons). Yet instead of blocking, I would move--just enough--to force them to overextend. They expected a hit, but instead, their intended target had moved! Their weapon flew on past me, and I stepped back in and rang their bell, so to speak. It's amazing how effective just the slightest movement is, as a defense, as compared to blocking! So yeah, Japanese swordsmen do not, really, block. I urge you to test this in a future video. I believe you'll be pleasantly surprised by the results. Especially as you apply movement to European style fighting, as I have. Damn it all, man, I would absolutely love to work with you and your stellar crew personally on a series of videos for your channel! But we're an ocean apart: I'm based in California, and you're way out in Australia...

[@luizgustavovasques4663]

There absolutely are blocks within historical Japanese swordsmanship, just look for any demonstration on KZbin. Differently from most European arts, there are Japanese sword arts alive and well being practiced since katanas were a thing.

[@raebertgrayson5766]

@@luizgustavovasques4663 oh, I don’t disagree, exactly. Those are more in the nature of cuts, than blocks. Basically, a cut against the weapon. But it depends on the ryu.

[@luizgustavovasques4663]

@@raebertgrayson5766 I see, maybe I understood your earlier comment wrongly. You probably meant that stactic blocks are not that common, right? I mean, it varies a lot on ryuha, that's why I generally don't like generalizations, but I think I get what you're saying.

[@raebertgrayson5766]

@@luizgustavovasques4663 yes, static blocks are to be avoided. They do more damage to your weapon and put you in an akward position, whereas dynamic blocks, avoidance, or sliding blocks can redirect your opponent, and put one in a more favorable position, using the enemy’s motion against him/her. I cringe whenever I see static blocks being employed with katanas in movies; I love those movies that get it right.

[@lorddurden4189]

I’m a bit of a closet weeb so of course I love Katanas but I agree with shad here if they were made of spring steal and had a better hand guard then they would be a lot better. Also a double edged sword is really nice for different attacks and angles so I absolutely grant that to European swords. It’s all good fun tho

[@bradbrandon2506]

Thank you for finally saying this. I have been saying these things for years, and, being the owner of a custom one of a kind katana with a tool steel blade (some call it super steel), I appreciate it! Some of these things are among the first things I teach someone when I teach the use of the katana.

[@cubancavalier3051]

Love watching your videos! Learn so much and get lots of entertainment. Will y’all ever do videos on rapiers/ dueling swords? I absolutely love Renaissance rapiers and would love to see them on your channel!

[@Ranstone]

So, the feature of edge alignment is one I really need to crack open my old physics textbooks and look into. On a curved, the center of drag is in front of the center of mass, unlike a straight blade, where they're... Well practically in line up and down. Does this help in edge alignment? Does it _hurt_ edge alignment? There is physics to be done!

[@IamGrimalkin]

If the centre of drag is in front of the centre of mass, it should (slightly) hurt edge alignment. Are you sure it's not the other way around? I'd expect it to be that way based on how katanas behave while dropped.

[@snakosaurus]

IMHO the curve should play a role in the edge stiffness. The curving action stretches the cutting edge, leaving it permanently in tension, and therefore reducing edge deflection during a cut. A thin edge can definitely deflect: a straight razor's blade deflects from pressure against skin while shaving. This is a desirable feature in a razor but not so in a sword.

[@1Aikiross]

The edge alignment through the curve happens as you accelerate the sword, not at the target. It definitely helps.

[@Orphioux]

Finally, a Chad katana build! Sidenote: Your video quality has been immaculate lately Shad, great work. You look awesome in that Shadiversity coat.

[@mudageki]

I don't think the world is ready for a Chadtana.

[@Dharleth82]

Makes me want to see a Katana with a crossguard or a western sword with a Katana grip.

[@No_Doe]

I am glad Shad was able to put aside his seething hatred for the katana to talk about it for a bit

[@masquerader101]

Shad, your humility makes you one of the GOATs

[@jesuizanmich]

IIRC, period sources from Europeans (e.g. Victorian) most notably praised the katana for its grip more than anything else. Some did praise the sharpness of the blade, often attributed at the time to a harder edge and wooden scabbard, compared to European steel scabbards. I do think the curve does aid with edge alignment. It's not an autocorrecting edge alignment during the cut, unless you are only doing gravity drop tests. It's as you say, because you can feel the curve as you swing it. European sabres have a similar thing to them, you feel the curve as you swing them. Some collectors of Chinese sabres also like to classify sabres by whether they prefer a percussive strike or slicing strike, and this is entirely due to the degree of curve. I'm also not convinced that the curve is simply a side effect of the manufacturing process and completely unintentional. If they didn't want curved swords, they could have made them straight by compensating at the forging stage. We have historical examples of differentially hardened japanese blades that are straight, some examples that curve forward, as well as many very deeply curved examples. Whoever noticed that the quenching adds a curve probably realised they can skip steps with curving if they want a curved sword, so at that point it looks to me like a conscious part of the design.

[@thescholar-general5975]

Yeah the curvature on a japanese sword is 100% intentional because the same process can be used to make straight blades.

[@MamaTrixxieAsmr]

Its definitely not an autocorrect, but the katanas shape is pretty aerodynamic as far as I'm able to tell, so it is definitely going to shift as close as it can towards it's direction of travel/path of least resistance. I'm no swordsman but I've waved enough random sticks around to noticed the curved ones like to turn the direction they're swung when given a less restrictive grip vs like Broom handles that don't give a shit which direction you swing them

[@JustTooDamnHonest]

Lord Shad gives every single sword some love and is not afraid to call out misconceptions of different swords in fiction and reality for it is this that makes him a true scholar of swords. Also I would love Shad to do a video on FF16's swords in the future and anyone who has played it already knows why, because for Shad's love of medieval themed forms of entertainment.

[@Frostbyte115]

So Shad I have to say that with this you have proven once more that you gave this the best thought, test throughs research as well as a best example of an unbiased and straightforward honest review and perspective on the Katana. I don't know how people believe that inferior steel, techniques and well misconceptions on blades in general lead to people believe that any critique saying it has a negative is a bad things. Scatterbrained a bit but yea.. You've given the truth and pro's and con's like it should have been put out there and detailing that they do what they are designed to do. They are great swords and just give and take in different areas.

[@UPTAUT]

I love listening to this dude talk. Also helps that he is talking about my favourite things

[@addictedtochocolate920]

I don't mind the videos debunking those absurd pop culture myths about them, it's more so the comment section and the overall attitude a part of our community has developed against Katanas. They took it to the other extreme, and that's why this video is in my eyes quite important.

[@deadso]

Well, after so many video's focusing on "how bad a Katana is compared to other swords", instead of focussing on the Katana solely, I can imagine this has an effect on the way the community 'handles' Katana arguments. I'd rather see a vid like this, solely focused on the Katana (but I'd also rather see it in the context it was used! As a sidearm and VS period correct armour. No one in that period of time is stabbing a car-door with a Katana, neither are they fighting against spring-steel bastard swords).

[@anderporascu5026]

Pop culture or frankly fantasy which creates the myths or fairytales tends to overdo all things. Anyone wishing to call the katana an inferior weapon and European swords god weapons only to pump an ancient ego needs to be brought low as those weapons were designed for their given purpose and those god awful mall ninjas need some boot camping on realism.

[@clorkmagnus]

My favorite sword are the Chinese Tang dao, the longer variant of the long sword and the rapier but I hate when people dissing the katana for some invisible weeb I don’t even see. Each swords have a historical background and it ties to geology, metallurgy, historical economic, social structures and cultures. I prefer them to be look at in a more in depth way. I don’t even mind if the sword break after a few swings. Ceremonial swords or symbolic swords exist in many cultures, they are also very fascinating to look at and learn about. I appreciated the approach in this video.

[@benerdick_cumberbiatch]

One thing almost everyone gets wrong about the katana is they assume it was an elite status symbol and the steel was rare in Japan. They could be a status symbol, but they were also a sidearm owned by every common Ashigaru foot soldier, by 1592 Japan had over 500,000 soldiers who all owned a katana, they were also exported to China and Korea and large numbers were also confiscated and melted down to make a giant statue of Buddha. They were not elite weapons and weds in fact one of the most mass produced swords in history.

[@goatcheezius2399]

Maybe it was marketed that way and a lot of people who didn't know better believed it

[@michaelterrell5061]

The Ashigaru did not own katana. They owned Wakazashi.

[@benerdick_cumberbiatch]

@@goatcheezius2399 I think it's because high ranked samurai could afford better quality steel and for them it was a status symbol but that goes for everything they owned. Since people say Japanese iron was poor quality they assume it was poor in quantity as well which is far from the case.

[@huntermad5668]

​​​@@michaelterrell5061they did. By late Sengoku zikai, there were very few differennces in equipments between veteran ashigaru units and their samurai counterparts other than quality of some of gear. The sources regularly mentioned those units performed as good as the samurai I think Wakazashi is more a samurai thing than anything as the cost difference would be insignificant anyway. Or An ashigaru just switched to katana after getting enough money or from loot anyway. Low quality katana was not expensive.

[@DarkwarriorJ]

Indeed, they were common mass-produced exports when Japan was fighting serious wars (Sengoku Jidai) AFAIK. They became elite status symbols with the various sword bans during the peaceful Edo period, in which the newly reigning leadership class curtailed social mobility and enforced their privileges.

[@Intranetusa]

According to Todd of TodsWorkshop, the spring steel in crossbow arms were probably made of cheaper and less reliable spring steel rather than the good quality stuff. There are good quality spring steel and there are bad quality/poorer quality spring steel. Todd hypothesized that one of the reasons why steel crossbows had very short powerstrokes was because the steel was not reliable and had a chance of failing in a dangerous way that could injure the user - having a longer powerstroke would mean the string is pulled back closer to the face, which makes it much more dangerous if the steel prod fails.

[@londonfog2301]

Thanks shad this video has been very informative! looking forward to your next!

[@josueroberto7356]

20:53 Now I don’t practice kenjutsu so don’t take my word for it, but from videos I’ve seen in Japanese swordplay they don’t actually aim to cut with that portion of the blade as much as European swordplay does. Kenjutsu seems quite happy to use the last two or three inches of its blade to cut and nothing more. Perhaps this is owing to katana retaining more material towards the tip as opposed to longswords and other European blades, which can taper out quite aggressively, resulting in it being recommended in its manuals to cut about a third of the blade down from the tip.

[@DarkwarriorJ]

There's another factor: Said katana stiffness. With flexible swords, like many longswords and Chinese Han-era changjian, you really need to hit near the center of percussion to have the ideal hit. With the sheer stiffness of the katana, however, it appears you're pretty much free to cut wherever, because the stiffness will handle it for you. It won't wobble out of the way and turn a killing blow into a shallow cut like more flexible swords. This also results in interesting details - for example, the highly effective cutting range of a longsword is pretty much the same as that of the katana despite the longsword being much longer, simply because the katana is stiff. The katana looses out on blade reach though - or at least their edo era forms did. The Sengoku Jidai katana were a bit longer, no matter the specific form afaik.

[@argonzeit]

I still think that if you're able to get your hands on a Honshu Katana you should test that against the other katanas you have and maybe even against the Honshu Broadsword.

[@argonzeit]

@@bbaker7467 I like the way the Honshu Katanas look compared to the traditional ones, for the most part. Katanas are just sleek machetes.

[@blacksnapper7684]

Finally some REAL katana love on the Chanel

[@kevinfanning8027]

I just love the look of the katana, such a gorgeous weapon.

[@nicothecrab6798]

Great video shad, I also agree with the thing about the guard, hand slices will be really easy if you're in a bind with katana and that's why I prefer crossguards and longsword.

[@theman5893]

Nice video shad

[@tom-vf1xv]

how do you know, you havent seen it yet???????????????????

[@theman5893]

@@tom-vf1xv because it was made by shad

[@xtremetuberVII]

This type of thing really shows a lot when you have a point on view of the angle of the blade... I hope we got a shot of it!

[@maiholiaw4927]

As a fencing enthusiast, I'd use the different swords as per the environment and situation demands. e.g, I'd take the Katana if I watch Samurai movies, a Great Sword, Long Sword if I watch Knight movies or a Talwar if I watch Bollywood movies.

[@Dingus_Khaan]

24:30 I wouldn't call a katana a "great sword". It's hardly long enough to be a greatsword. That would be an ōdachi. I'll see myself out now.

[@General_Kenobi_212]

I love Japanese Swords, I love European Swords, I just love all swords....that is all 😅

[@Gennys]

19:45 Technically when quenched the thinner edge cools down first and squeezes hardening, even though its clay coated. But there is so much mass on the spine that it hardens and shrinks causing the blade to bend back and curve the other way into the familiar shape. Carry on.

[@EgaoKage]

I love this style of sit-down, detail-oriented video. Don't get me wrong, watching you guys swing weapons around is cool too. It's just great that we (your audience) get to have both! So, thank you Shad, for respecting our intelligence! - As to the curve "aiding in" edge-alignment, you're initial supposition is correct. But it sounds like you were maybe looking in the wrong place to find the benefits. Any curved object will naturally attempt to orient itself to an alignment similar to what could be called "good" in swordsmanship. But the benefit is felt less upon impact, than it is when impetus begins. You could test this with a curved round steel bar, with bearings slid-on at the "handle end", and simply observe it in a mechanized "swing."

[@jacobweaver368]

Once again Shad confesses his love for the katana in a way that hopefully will put this to rest. I’d say it’s the BIGGEST bit of miss information Shad shall face.

[@ghfdt368]

I think Katana's are clearly very good swords. Why? Because they were used in warfare and defence for almost 1000 years, if they were crap the armies of Japan would have replaced it another design or weapon as swords are not cheap or easy to make. Issues arise when anime and movies treat the sword as if its perfect in every way and superior to any other sword ever made which of course is also false.

[@DarkwarriorJ]

They also evolved a fair bit in said thousand years though. Beware of assuming it's the same katana (of various different forms) all throughout!

[@ghfdt368]

@@DarkwarriorJ absolutely agree like any sword that's the case. However the premise and foundation of the katana was the same for an incredibly long time so it clearly was an effective and useful weapon that lasted up to ww2 🙂

[@DarkwarriorJ]

@@ghfdt368 The premise actually changed - in the Sengoku jidai, it was a soldier's sidearm; in the Edo era, a badge of office and rank for the samurai class. The blade shortened; the tsuba got smaller (from what I've read). The basic form remains similar though, and so perhaps the more intriguing thing is that it was still useful enough in rather wildly varying contexts.

[@lobstereleven4610]

fantastic video! very honest critique of one's own opinions based on new information. thank you!

[@ianwinter514]

the edgealignement is better indicated by the virtue of air drag, so it doesn't matter which part of the blade hits the target to have the intended effect

[@DrygdorDradgvork]

But actually, just here to help with the algorithm. I'll make a real comment once I watch the whole vid.

[@alephnascimentocanali2210]

I really think Katana is underrated by "specialized" swordsmans. I have never seen a kenjutsu praticer comparing Katana and long sword, and i have big reason to unbelive in the comparisons made by the H.E.M.A community

[@DH-xw6jp]

So, because one group doesn't make comparisons you don't believe the comparisons made by a second group?

[@alephnascimentocanali2210]

@@DH-xw6jp its not like i dont belive in H.E.M.A praticers analisys, i only think they have a tendentious vision. Its something like a WW2 german soldier comparing a Luger with a 1911

[@DH-xw6jp]

@@alephnascimentocanali2210 so, not only do you not believe them, you are comparing them to Nazis.

[@alephnascimentocanali2210]

@@DH-xw6jp Nice joke lmao

[@DH-xw6jp]

@@alephnascimentocanali2210 thanks, i've been having a bad day so it was fun to poke at someone. But you do bring up an interesting tangential point. Why don't kenjutsu practitioners compare Eastern and Western blades as often as HEMA/ARMA folk do?

[@Jaedeok82]

Fun fact about the hardness. As you pointed out, The breaking happened along the hamon line. This is one of the reasons you see more "elaborate" or irregular hamon lines. Suguha (straight) tends to make long breaks. Notare, Gunome, Choji hamons etc that are more irregular will break smaller pieces.

[@fpassow1]

This is awesome content, one of your best. Thank you!

[@MythicJedi]

More Katana videos you say???

[@shanewiford1758]

Hey Shad, I got a topic for the TITAN SWORD. If a medieval blacksmith were to take the design of the TITAN SWORD how would go about creating it. For example the handles along the blade would they use metal or wood and what pros or cons that gives us.

[@joelweddle1185]

Interesting observation on the vibration of through-tang with pommel designs. This design transfers rotational momentum from the pommel to the tip of the sword, resulting in snappier impacts.

[@stanlim9182]

It’s nice to see that chair and gambeson Shad again.

[@Erynash]

Hey shad, I'd love to see you talk about some of the massive swords of history. Not just the Zweihander though, the odachi or zhanmadao seem like interesting pieces to discuss

[@hjalmarthehelmetman]

The most interesting thing shad's videos is the sound quality, there can be a storm blowing in the background and the voice quality would be perfect.

[@SeanCrosser]

For swords that are gonna see heavy use, perhaps you guys could consider making a metal pin to replace the secondary mekugi, preferably made out of brass. Wooden mekugi pins are known to break, while bamboo can break, but should still hold up. I don't have money or a machine shop, so on my beater sword I just make do with ones made from whittled down bamboo chopsticks.

[@kazumayugami7035]

Wooden pins are better in helping with shock absorption during impact. Metal pins will have all that energy going into your hands and wrists.

[@goofygoodpasture8511]

I’ve also heard that the curve helps with stabbing rather than slashing, because of the offset point, which is a really niche area of use

[@washedup_adventurer]

When I purchased my first hand-forged santoku, I opted for white 1 steel specifically because it was softer than some of the other options. Takes a great edge. Wears faster, but also sharpens easier. Far more forgiving as a home chef who doesn't get professional sharpening.

[@disco8301]

Film looks so pretty dude. Great job!

[@michaelconnor1542]

The alignment effect is in it's movement. I never thought the alignment corrected at contact. It was always in how the curve affects how the blade moves. When you swing the blade, the tip is ever so slightly behind. It is effectively like laying the tip on your arm. Like you demonstrated. Think of a ball, with a line attached to one side being thrown. If little spin is place on it. Eventually the ball will align with the line trailing. Same effect.

[@eternalisolation6106]

Speaking of katanas, I remember a video from a while ago where you talked about the anime Rurouni Kenshin, and I recently found out that they are currently making a re-adaptation. So far there's only the first episode, but from what I remember of the original anime, it's the exact same, just re-animated.