What is Kamasu Kissaki in Japanese Katana terminology?

The term "Kamasu Kissaki" (かます切先, かますきっさき) refers to a type of tip on a Japanese sword. The name is derived from its resemblance to the head of a barracuda fish (Kamasu in Japanese), characterized by a lack of curvature (Fukura) at the tip. This design is often seen on swords that have inherited the style of the Jokoto period (pre-987 AD), and it was particularly prevalent during the mid-Heian period. Despite the lack of curvature, the Kamasu Kissaki is known for its sharpness and cutting ability. However, one of the drawbacks of this design is that if the blade were to chip, it would be difficult to re-sharpen due to the straightness of the tip. As a result, this design fell out of favor in later periods.

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