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What is a Tachi sword?
A tachi (太刀) is a type of traditionally made Japanese sword (nihonto) worn by the samurai class of feudal Japan. Tachi and katana generally differ in length, degree of curvature, and how they were worn when sheathed, the latter depending on the location of the mei, or signature, on the tang.
Is a katana one handed or two-handed?
While some swords can be wielded with either one hand or two hands, most are designed for use either a single hand or both hands. The traditional Japanese katana, for instance, was most effective when wielded with a single hand, while the Korean Ssangsudo was most effective with two hands.
Are katanas swords?
A katana (刀 or かたな or カタナ) is a Japanese sword characterized by a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. The official term for katana in Japan is uchigatana (打刀) and the term katana (刀) often refers to single-edged swords from around the world.
What is kanji for death?
死 means ‘death’
Can a katana cut a bullet?
The sword wins, cutting the bullet in two. And with no dents, scratches or nicks in the blade. It’s extremely difficult to cut a human being in half at the torso, no matter how sharp your blade is.
Why is a katana curved?
At first, the Katana had straight blades, but as time passed, these received curves due to their efficiency in battle. Since the Katana are slicing weapons, its blades are made curved to execute a better cutting motion.
Why did samurai wear their swords upside down?
One reason the katana was worn with the cutting edge facing up is that it allows for faster unsheathing and drawing. Samurai warriors could grab the katana’s hilt with one hand and quickly unsheathe it, thereby giving them an advantage over their enemies.
What does the K stand for on a sterling silver crown?
The crown stands for Sheffield, the Lion stands for sterling, and the HA is the initials of the silver maker Atkin Brothers. The K is the date, but you will have to look on the Encyclopedia of Silver Marks website to match it with the correct date. They will have a list there under British, Sheffield silver that you can find it on.
How are swords graded in rarity?
The swords are graded in rarity on a scale of 1 to 10. This is solely in my opinion. Other peoples opinion may differ. Please note that this is very “General”. There is obviously CONDITION, MAKER, GRADE, and the individuality of certain pieces, which would alter rarity and value.
When did the government start using swords?
Federal Period ~ Circa 1800 – 1840 Nathan Starr was the premier sword contractor to the government up until the rise of Ames in the 1830’s. Below are examples of early 1812 Cavalry, 1826 Naval, and 1818 NCO sword. These swords are not pretty, or elegant, but they served their intended field of use admirably.
What is the antique sword library?
This is an exciting and comprehensive site to help identify antique swords and is designed to hold a vast library of information of use to the antique sword collector. We wish to promote the study of antique swords.