Katana Nagasa Know how to measure katana blade the right way

Everything You Need to Know About Nagasa

Nagasa, or the length of the blade, is among the most important considerations while buying a Katana. So, if you're planning to buy a Katana soon, you might be curious to know more about this part. This guide will help you in this regard.

What Is Nagasa?

The Katana's Nagasa designates the length of the blade. And it can be determined by measuring a straight path from the kissaki towards the Munemachi groove at the Habaki's back.

The standard katana length is around 72 centimeters. A katana's Nagasa may range between 60 and 90 centimeters in length. Whereas the Nagasa of a tanto is normally below 30 centimeters, that of a wakizashi is generally around 30 and 60 cm. However, a kodachi's Nagasa typically ranges from 40 to 60 cm. There is not really any standard rule for Nagasa. You can get it of any length you desire. 

What's the Usage of Nagasa?

The Katana's length or Nagasa greatly influences practically everything about the weapon. In the Japanese art form of Iaido, choosing the right length of Katana is crucial. A Samurai's life could be at risk because of the millisecond lag added by each additional inch of a sword's length.

In most circumstances, a 100 cm-long Katana may be a lethal weapon. The Katana's curvature and length ensure its mass center is in the grip or middle. And it might well reduce the effectiveness of the Katana if its length is significantly more or less because the central mass may move.

The Japanese Katana would be difficult to swing and manage if it is excessively large. Additionally, if the swing is out of control, one risks hurting themselves and their training partner.

Well, handling a considerably longer Katana will become difficult and unconventional. Moreover, if the Katana is bigger, it will be possible to utilize its advantages.

Furthermore, swords are tougher to maneuver the heavier they are. Thus, the Katana would be heavier the lengthier it is.

Besides, Japanese short swords are lighter than long Katanas, making them easier to maneuver. Moreover, Katanas having small Nagasa may swing more quickly and change course better since they are lightweight and have a smaller mass. So, a ninja who moves quickly would appreciate this.

What Are the Common Lengths of Nagasa?

The Katana Nagasa may differ based on how the sword is intended to be used. For instance, a katana designed for thrusting can have a smaller blade than one designed for cutting. However, katanas with lengthier blades are typically more attractive among individuals.

The Nagasa is vital whether you are searching for a sword for self-defense, collection, or to showcase on the wall. Yet, it might be challenging to figure out where to begin when so many distinct katana Nagasa options are available. 

You can, however, limit your choices and discover the ideal Katana for your requirements by bearing in mind the Katana's intended use and the preferred blade's length. The following table shows different common types of Nagasa lengths best suitable for one's height:

If you need to make a customize nagasa katana, you can do that in our custom katana section

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Longest Katana Sword?

The O Katana is the Katana having the longest Nagasa. It typically measures between 76 and 100 centimeters.

How to Properly Measure a Nagasa?

Measure the samurai sword from the Munemachi to the kissaki to determine the proper blade length. After that, you must add 30 cm from the handle to the measurement of the Katana.

What is the Average Katana Length?

The average Katana length or Nagasa is around 100 cm.

Conclusion

One can only regard Katana as the most powerful weapon in the world if it's in ideal shape and of the correct length. So, one must carefully choose the Nagasa of the Katana sword while buying. Thanks for reading through. For more katana parts please check this blog.