Why are katanas so popular?

[philwar]

My aikido instructor was a black belt in kenjutsu, incorporated a lot of it into his classes (aiki-ken). I'd been a fan of Japanese swords since childhood, and when I first wielded a bokken, I was sold. I now own a set of factory made but high quality swords, battle-ready, as they say. 1065 steel, sharp as my Gayle Bradley and they cut like crazy. They are both ornamental and practical; when the zombies come, I am ready!

 

[Kohai999]

I'm descended from samurai on my mother's side, and once an older cousin brought out a valuable sword that had been in the family for generations, and was powdering the blade. Unfortunately, I was a kid and wasn't overly interested, but I was impressed with how perfect it looked. Of course, his rule was, 'you can look, but don't touch'.Jim

Come hang out at my dojo when you have time....we will put you on the mat(not literally, you will remain standing).

PM me, and I'll give you address and phone number.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson

 

[Mecha]

The primary difference between the European and Japanese sword is that in Europe the Armorer's won the arms race over the sword, while in Japan that never really happens. We never really see full plate armor in Japan. The sword as a primary military weapon has been in decline in Europe since the 14th century, while in Japan the sword remains an important weapon through the 19th century.

n2s

I've read that Japanese ringmail armor was way more advanced than European versions, with many different link patterns, double and triple rings, varying sizes of rings throughout pieces, and incorporating small plates of steel and such.