A samurai sword consists of many individual elements.
All components have Japanese designations. There are many of these together with the different versions. We provide a brief overview of frequently used terms here.
Samurai sword components - a graphic overview:
In connection with the blade:
In alphabetical order:
Habaki |
Blade ferrule that holds the sword in the scabbard. |
Hamon |
Hardening line on the blade |
Hasaki |
Cutting edge area of the blade |
Hi |
Optional notch in the blade |
Kissaki |
Blade tip |
Mune |
The back of the blade |
Nakago |
Fishing rod of the blade |
Yokote |
Burr at the transition from the blade to the blade tip |
You can find more information on the construction of the blade of a samurai sword here here.
In connection with the stabbing blade (tsuba):
In alphabetical order:
Seppa |
Thin discs between habaki and tsuba and on the other side of the tsuba between tsuba and fuchi. Not a direct part of the tsuba. |
Tsuba |
The blade of the samurai sword is called the tsuba. This naturally serves to protect the hands, but also has more artificial aspects. |
In connection with the handle (Tsuka):
In alphabetical order:
Fuchi |
Handle ferrule at the end of the handle towards the blade. Usually made of metal and decorated. |
Kashira |
End cap of the handle. It is usually made of metal and is often decorated. |
Mekugi |
Wooden pins that hold the sword tang in the handle. |
Menuki |
Decorations under the grip tape |
Same |
Rayskin, which serves as an inlay on the handle. On cheaper swords, this inlay is often made of imitation rubber or plastic. |
Tsuka Ito |
Grip tape made from cotton, silk, leather or synthetic materials |
In connection with the sword scabbard (saya):
In alphabetical order:
Koiguchi |
Opening in the scabbard. Often reinforced with horn or metal. |
Kojiri |
End cap of the scabbard. Made from horn or metal. |
Kurigata |
Eyelet for the Sageo |
Sageo |
Strap on the scabbard. Made from cotton, silk or synthetic materials. |
Saya |
The scabbard itself is usually made of wood. Different woods are used depending on the price. |
