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Types of Swords & Daggers

Edged weapons are usually used in combat, duels or in self defense. Many different swords and daggers were used on ancient battlefields and have their root in ancient martial arts histories. Some edged weapons are heavy and thick so that they can be used effectively when the combatant is fighting against an armored opponent. But other swords and daggers are light and swift for use in duels or other situations where the wielder needs to be quick. Whether you are a martial artist or a collector, there are several types of swords and daggers you can add to your weapons collection.

Dao
- The dao is a broadsword and has historically changed shape, but usually it has a narrow tang and a broad tip. Although some ancient Chinese broadswords had narrow tips, the tip was still slightly broader than the tang, or the end of the blade inserted into the handle. The blade of a dao is curved and sharpened on only one side, which allows the wielder to protect himself during broad, sweeping movements or to block an opponent’s strike. According to Cultural China.com, the dao was often used in combat and was one of four weapons--including the spear, jian and gun--commonly used in ancient combat.
Jian
- A jian is a Chinese double-edged sword. There are two different types of jian: the combat jian and the dueling jian. A combat jian is designed for combat, so it is typically made of sturdy folded steel. Heavier than the dueling jian, a combat jian is made for heavy blows that can cut through armor. The dueling jian is much lighter, with a sharp but slightly flexible tip. Because it is so light, a dueling jian can be used with one hand. The tangs of both swords are sometimes wrapped with leather or another type of gripping material, and the blades are often decorated.
Katana
- A katana is a Japanese sword originally used by the warrior class in feudal Japan. Commonly associated with the Samurai or Ninja, a katana is a relatively light sword used with two hands. The blade is slightly curved and sharpened on only one side. The tang is often bound with leather and is about equal to the width of the blade. Although there is often a small guard separating the blade and the tang, many katanas have no guard.
Kattari
- Originally from India, a kattari is a push knife used in close combat. The blade is short and normally has an H-shaped cross section, which allows the wielder to attach the blade to his fingers for more gripping power. Lighter kattari can also be thrown, similar to any type of throwing knife. Due to its light weight, this knife allows for a swift attack. More common in ancient Indian combat, the kattari lost its popularity during the 19th century and is not as widely used as it once was, according to Hinduism World.

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