Wakizashi VS Tanto: Break down the difference in details
Table of Content
Understanding the Difference Between Wakizashi and Tanto
There are many types of Japanese sword, While the katana is the most iconic one, there are longer swords like the tachi(太刀) and naginata(薙刀), and shorter blades such as the wakizashi(脇差) and tanto(短刀). Among these smaller swords, it's easy to get them confused. In this article, we will focus on the detailed differences between the wakizashi and tanto—so that not only will you be able to tell them apart, but you'll also gain reliable, in-depth knowledge about both.
Main Differences Between Wakizashi and Tanto
1. Size
The most straightforward way to distinguish a wakizashi from a tanto is by size. The wakizashi is essentially a shorter version of the katana, while the tanto is even smaller—more like a dagger.
However, it's not just a matter of eyeballing the length, there are rules about it. During the Edo period, official regulations outlined specific dimensions for different swords. According to the Buke Shohatto (武家諸法度), any Japanese sword with a blade length between 1 to 2 shaku ((about 30.3–60.6 cm, or 11.9–23.9 inches)) is classified as a wakizashi. For tanto the blade lenght should be shorter than 1 shaku (30 cm, or 11.8 inches).
So yes—if it’s longer, it’s probably a wakizashi, but now you know there’s actual legal backing behind that assumption.
2. Blade Shape and Curvature
One of the most unique feature of Japanese swords is the sori, the curvature of the blade, created during the clay tempering process (which also produces the beautiful hamon line).
• A wakizashi, due to its length, usually has a noticeable sori, much like a katana.
• A tanto, being much shorter, typically has little to no curvature.
In terms of blade construction:
• Wakizashi often use the shinogi-zukuri style, which features a central ridge line and is also standard on katanas.
• Tanto blades are commonly hira-zukuri (平造り)—flat, with no ridge. This design, similar to a modern kitchen knife, provides excellent cutting efficiency.
3. Fittings (Koshirae)
The koshirae, or sword fittings, also differ between wakizashi and tanto:
• Wakizashi fittings are usually similar to those of a katana. Parts like the tsuba, seppa, and habaki are often interchangeable. The tsuka is a bit shorter, as the wakizashi is designed for one-handed use. It typically does not include the kozuka (小柄) and kogai (笄) found in a katana’s scabbard—or may include only the Kozuka.
• The tanto, due to its smaller size, often uses a style of mounting called aikuchi (合口), which doesn't have tsuba at all, giving it a sleek, dagger-like appearance. The tsuka might not be wrapped at all—some are simply made of rayskin or decorated wood, emphasizing aesthetics over combat practicality.
4. Usage and Purpose
Wakizashi: The Samurai’s Sidearm
During the Edo period, it was customary for samurai to wear two swords, a combination called daisho (大小): a katana (uchigatana 打刀) and a wakizashi. However, only samurai were permitted to carry a katana. The wakizashi, not being considered the primary weapon, was not restricted, and even commoners or ronin could carry it for self-defense while traveling—earning it the nickname "sword for the road" (道中差).
The wakizashi also served a critical role indoors. When visiting a daimyo’s residence, samurai were required to leave their katana at the entrance, but were allowed to keep their wakizashi. In case of any conflict, this was the only weapon they could rely on.
A lesser-known but interest use of the wakizashi was during kirisute gomen (切捨御免)—the legal right of a samurai to strike down a commoner who disrespected him. In such cases, the samurai might hand over his wakizashi to the offender, giving them a chance to defend themselves.
Tanto: Defense and Symbolism
On the battlefield, the tanto was often used for piercing armor at close range. Though Japanese armor was lighter than European armor, it was still highly effective against arrows or strikes by Katana. The most efficient tactic against a fully-armored enemy was to tackle them to the ground and use a tanto to stab through armor gaps. A specific type of tanto made for this purpose is called the yoroi-dōshi (鎧通), literally means "armor piercer."
There’s also claims that tanto were used to wedge into stone walls as climbing aids during sieges, though given their size and shape, we doubt if this is actually possible.
Outside of war, the tanto held symbolic and practical importance:
• Women, especially daughters of samurai families, carried a kaiken (懐剣), a type of tanto used for self-defense.
• In modern times, the kaiken is worn by brides during traditional weddings as a protective charm (omamori) and is sometimes gifted to newborns.
• Contrary to popular belief, the tanto—not the wakizashi—was typically used for seppuku (ritual suicide).
Conclusion
While both the wakizashi and tanto are small Japanese blades, their differences in size, design, fittings, and function are quite distinct. The wakizashi served as the samurai’s loyal sidearm, with utility both in battle and etiquette, while the tanto was a versatile tool for close combat, defense, and ceremonial use.
Understanding these details not only allows you to identify each sword accurately but also offers a deeper appreciation for their cultural and historical significance.
