Ninjato and katana are two of the most popular Japanese historical quality swords. Of the two samurai swords, the katana is more popular. The ninjato, however, is closest to the covert secret shinobi (ninja). Just in case you are in the market for a ninjato or comparing katanas and ninjato prices, this article will enlighten you on how to compare, learn about their history, and know where and how to procure a replica or real sword.
What Is a Ninjato?
The ninjato or ninjato sword, of course, was previously said to have been utilized by spies and feudal Japanese assassins. As opposed to the katana, which was an instrument of honor, the ninjato was a functional sword that should be employed in a clandestine manner and only to obtain the objective.
Ninjato Features:
l Straight Blade: Contrary to the katana curve, the ninjato blade was straighter to provide smooth draws and thrusts.
l Shorter Length: Typically a 24-27 inch length, less intrusive and more practical in tight spaces.
l Square Guard (Tsuba): An actual square guard for functional use and not for show alone.
l Multipurpose Scabbard (Saya): The scabbard would also serve as a breathing tube, resting place, or emergency bludgeoning tool.
Aside from the supposed historical reason for the ninjato, modern interpretation is more functional to collectors and practitioners.
Ninjato vs. Katana: A Detailed Comparison
To better observe the distinctions between these two swords, let's put them side by side:
|
Feature |
Ninjato |
Katana |
|
Shape of blade |
Straight or slightly curved |
Pronounced curvature |
|
Length of blade |
24-27 inches (approx. 60-70 cm) |
23.6-29.5 inches (60-75 cm) |
|
Guard (Tsuba) |
Simple, square design |
Ornate, often circular |
|
Use sneaking |
Stealth, rapid strikes |
Honor-based dueling, battlefield |
|
Historical Function |
Shinobi (ninja) tool |
Samurai weapon |
|
Use of Scabbard |
Doubled as a tool or weapon |
Primarily to protect blade |
Although a comparison of the katana ninjato has a tendency to highlight differences in function, both swords have cultural significance in Japanese history.
Where to Buy a Ninjato or Katana
If you need to buy a ninjato, the below are where you can get one:
1. Trustworthy Online Store
TrueKatana – Hand-forged reproduction ninjato and katana.
Kult of Athena – Real historical Japanese swords.
HanBon Forge – Custom blades with blade selection.
2. Martial Arts Distributors
All martial arts shops and dojos offer student training in ninjato.
3. Online Auction Sites & Antique Shops
For antique swords (actual), try:
eBay (authenticate first)
Japanese sword auctions (such as Aoi Japan)
4. Custom Swordsmiths
If you would like a distinctive, personal, one-of-a-kind combination katana-ninjato, buy a knife specially made by a swordsmith to ensure you have something unique.
Conclusion
If you’re a collector, artist, or just want to learn a little history, it’s never a bad idea to learn about ninja swords and samurai swords.
If you're a collector, an artist, or simply want to learn a little history, it can never be a bad idea to be familiar with what a ninjato and a katana are. A ninjato is for whatever other purpose other than ceremonial purposes, alongside a katana, but they're both excellent representations of the samurai background of Japan.
In buying ninjato for sale, make sure to buy quality craftsmanship from legit sellers. If you buy a ninjato, katana, or a cross-ninjato-katana sword, you have one of these swords with centuries of history and artwork in your hands.
Do you ever find yourself wondering if you would have wished to own the sly and cunning character of a ninjato sword or the samurai lineage of a katana? Comment your thoughts below!
