Kasane in Japanese Katana terminology
What is Kasane in Japanese Katana terminology?
The term "Kasane" (重ね, かさね) refers to the thickness of the blade of a Japanese sword. When measured at the back ridge of the sword, it is referred to as "Mune-Kasane" (棟重ね), and when measured at the ridge line (Shinogi), it is called "Shinogi-Kasane" (鎬重ね). A sword with a thin Kasane is characterized by its excellent sharpness, however, it also tends to be more prone to bending. This term is used to describe a specific characteristic of a Japanese sword's structure, which can significantly affect its performance and functionality.