直刃 (Suguha)

What is Suguha in Japanese Katana terminology?

Suguha refers to a type of blade pattern (Hamon) in Japanese swords. It is characterized by a straight line, making it the most basic and traditional blade pattern (Hamon) that has been continued from the Jokoto (ancient sword) period to the present day. This pattern is particularly common in the works of swordsmiths from the Yamashiro and Yamato traditions.

Within the Suguha, there are variations based on the width of the tempered area. ""広直刃"" (Hiro-suguha) refers to a Suguha with a particularly wide tempered area, while ""細直刃"" (Hoso-suguha) refers to a Suguha with a particularly narrow tempered area. ""中直刃"" (Chu-suguha) refers to a Suguha that is slightly wider than the standard Suguha.