On the other hand,the 14th century saw the emergence of the longsword in Europe as a military steel weapon. Holding the hilt with both hands, he let the blade continue its motion while rotating the blade around a point between his hands. The samurai warriors relied on their tachi, the katanas predecessor which featured a much longer high-carbon steel blade designed to strike down opponents from horseback. EDIT: Looked it up for the OP. The Deadliest and Feared Weapons of Ancient India, Seppuku: Honorable Suicide by the Samurai, Six Peculiar Swords You Might Want to Know About. In addition to being a dangerous weapon, it is an excellent means of improving your hand-eye coordination. Here's a playlist! Made of harder steel, the Katana flexes less than a Longsword and can hold a sharper edge, allowing more force to be applied consistently across a smaller surface area. The longsword was used by knights in Europe from the 13th to 17th Centuries. The katana was a sword used by the samurai in Japan. Which is why I say in DnD comparison, it is more accurate to compare it to a scimitar (real North African Swords are longer than what in DnD is a Short Sword). However the katana is the exact opposite. Easy peasy lemon squeezy, and in this case its Japanesey. Since then a Katana has specifically been defined as a single edged, hand-and-a-half (versatile) sword of with a blade length of around 61 cm that was worn by Samurai in the 15th century. Cerberusarms presented a fair, in-depth analysis with lots of good points, so here is my opinion on it.Feel free to give us your take on \"MUH SORD BETTA\" obviously any dissent shall be mercilessly crushed by either a fully armed knight or samurai respectively. And the Tanto is a dagger essentially or a knife. There is a lengthy ongoing discussion of that exact question right here:https://www.dndbeyond.com/forums/d-d-beyond-general/general-discussion/9988-1d8-damage-versatile-with-finesse. With centuries worth of practice and perfection, it even possesses a mythical aura when it comes to it, with many legends believing it was able to cut through apparitions and ward off spirits. The longsword is the most commonly depicted sword style in movies and fiction. Despite their differences, the Katana and Longsword share some similarities. An LL.M graduate in Corporate Law, with an extensive background in legal and academic writing. This was done in order to maintain a high standard of quality and ensure that only the best swords were produced. The Katana's blade is designed to be lightweight, but also incredibly sharp and durable. Fashioned out of wood and measured to be one-third of the entire swords length, samegawa or ray skin was then typically used to cover the core of the handle. Scimitars are curved blades, they are designed to slash, which makes them strength weapons. Katana VS Longsword. As he hit the ground, a little dazed, he saw a man approaching quickly, holding a kanab (steel club). It is just as good as the longsword, but it is also much more dangerous to use in the hands of the uninitiated. Ryota quickly struck again, a killing blow, and the man crumpled before him. )14:16 - 14:54 Fighting style14:54 - 15:55 Cutting performance15:55 - 16:20 Katana = DPS, Longsword = Balanced16:20 - Glock vs. 1911 / conclusion*** Credits ***Japanese Martial Art Iaijutsu Battjutsu Samurai Combative Quick-draw Sword Techniquehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlOjuVehh68\"Winds of Stories\" by Horror Penhttps://opengameart.org/content/winds-of-storiesCreative Commons Attribution 3.0 license (CC BY 3.0)\"RPG Exploration Level 1\" by Hitctrlhttps://opengameart.org/content/rpgexplorationlevel1CC BY 3.0Outro:\"Highland Storm\" by The Slanted Room Recordshttps://theslantedroom.github.io/steve.yee/Used with artist's permission*** Merch ***https://www.bonfire.com/store/skallswag/If you want to join Bonfire to start selling your own merch: https://www.bonfire.com/welcome/07bb14169c804/*** Support the channel ***Help fund future videos, get bonus content and access to an exclusive Discord server:http://www.patreon.com/skallagrimhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3WIohkLkH4GFoMrrWVZZFA/joinhttps://www.subscribestar.com/skallagrimOther ways to support the channel by shopping through affiliate links:Kult of Athena, my favorite online store for reproductions of historical arms and armor, fantasy swords, etc:https://www.kultofathena.com/?koa=259Where to get HEMA gear and practice swords:http://www.woodenswords.com/?Click=1799Want to treat your face fluff? I love everything about Swords, Katanas, Medieval Weapons, Anime, and much much more! 2023 Wizards. They did use Katana, the same Longsword equivalent Katana as Samurai used. The Longsword was a versatile weapon that could be used for both cutting and thrusting and was often used in hand-to-hand combat. The horses rider jumped off and drew his weapon. But even then, i don't see how this matters if the Longsword user can just easily Zwerch-copter with the double edge. The katana requires a bit of finesse to use effectively, but with experience it can be a formidable weapon. Soldiers in Japan wore uniforms that were made mostly of cloth or leather, with not much metal, at least until the introduction of guns. Swordsmiths often used the guard as sort of a canvas and included intricate decorative designs. In this contest, the Longswords won 3-1. Cerberusarms 510K subscribers Join Subscribe 3.7M views 6 months ago #funny. The answer really depends on the situation. However, while the European Longsword may be a better weapon for extended combat on the battlefield, it is important to remember that the Katana was as much a work of art as a weapon, and was a source of pride and identity for the Samurai. In this article, we'll explore the differences and similarities between the two swords and examine their place in history. The longsword eventually developed a fully swept hilt, making it superior to the tsuba. Thus, theywere made to be easy to draw and strike with one fluid motion. As far as power and speed are concerned, the added weight was definitely a plus, but the trade-off for increased performance meant that the sword became harder to maneuver. Relatively shortly after firearms were introduced by the Portuguese, Japan entered a peaceful period and duels became more common than actual fights. The best sword-wielders of Japan are the Samurai. I am wondering what most people think what is better. On wikipedia it says 60cm-80cm for blade length, whereas a longsword was usually 90-100 cm in blade length. This type of sword became popular during the middle ages as European armies adopted a more mobile battlefield strategy. dachi (Greatsword) referred to its massive size, and Nodachi (Field Sword) referred to its role on the battlefield as you pointed out. On the other hand, the longsword hasnt been around for as long and its cutting ability has often been dismissed by sword historians. However, as the use of armor became more prevalent and widespread, the longsword also became an essential weapon for infantry soldiers as well. I hope this blog post was helpful! So reading through this the one problem I have is that everyone assumes Katanas are one thing. At the end it's about how dmg stacks and staying within norms. A longsword is a specific type of European weapon that is depicted by having a cruciform hilt and a double handed grip that measures around six to eleven inches; it also features a straight, double-edged blade that approximately measures around thirty-three to forty-three inches. Gavin quickly dropped the now-useless pike and drew his own sword. These are extended forward with the sword, and if injured, could quickly signal the end of a battle. Some of his other interests also include traveling, hiking, fitness, and gaming. The question of which is better: the European Longsword or the Katana has been around for as long as sword enthusiasts have known about both swords. It weighed up to four pounds and was a standard medieval variant. A Longsword or Bastard Sword is a double bladed two handed straight sword originating from various European countries. I love learning everything I canabout the arms racefrom the Bronze Age through the Renaissance. The longsword originated in the 13th century, evolving from the war swords and great swords of that time period. Page 41 of the DMG: An alternative name changes none of the weapons properties as they are described in the Players Handbook. I think 5e went a little too far with handing out the finesse property on weapons, and it's made a lot of people feel entitled to finesse weapons. The katana is typically wielded with one hand, although some techniques involve using both hands for extra power. So would the same logic apply in katana vs longsword as well? The same goes for the swords durability to withstand these blows. The samurai sword, or katana, was originally designed for use by mounted warriors, but it later evolved into a weapon that could be wielded on foot. You must be over 18 years of age to use this website. It's small and nimble, and can be used to perform quick and deadly combos. The longsword is a longer, heavier sword with more stopping power, while the katana is a shorter, lighter sword with a stronger cutting edge. The weapons list has a weapon representative of this: Longsword. It was popular among knights and other professional soldiers and was often used in combination with a shield. It's a scimitar. I agree with you that a heavy slashing weapon would most certainly use Str. Furthermore, it excelled in its purpose: serving as a backup . I love everything about swords, katanas, medieval weapons, anime and videogames! What Steel Is Best for Crafting a Katana Sword? This only means that one specifically emphasized swift and quick slicing moves that are considered decisive single strikes, while the other emphasized quick, long-reaching stabs in combination attacks. Then its a Shortsword. Join our VIP List to get $10 off your first order, as well as first access to exclusive specials. The most popular, iconic, and recognizable weapons in history have always been the European longsword and the Japanese katana both having great designs that have evolved and developed to efficiently face the numerous challenges that were present in the battlefield. Katana can also be used as a generic term for all three main swords. Check out a few more! Each one is unique with its own defining characteristics. This grip allows the Samurai warrior to use the sword effectively in close combat situations. Now, a Katana was two handed back in the day, but normally they were a bit shorter than the are now in modern media. The katana especially as you need to really understand how to . The Katana is a single-edged weapon, while the Longsword is double-edged. link to How To Hold a Katana Like a Real Pro (In 4 Easy Steps). Ive been a sword enthusiast all my life and I consider it a serious hobby of mine. Over the centuries, the katana has become well known for its cutting power. Perhaps the shift towards close-combat warfare helped, or maybe it was just their preference for the more powerful weapons at their disposal. It is traditionally made from a type of steel called tamahagane, which is created through a complex forging process that involves layering different types of steel. Its believed that the sword was initially used by knights for close-quarters hand-to-hand combat and to cut through plate armors. Differential hardening is a method of improving the mechanical properties of materials. (Maintenance Guide), Ninja Swords: Everything You Didnt Think You Needed To Know. This literally goes against everything I have read about katanas. How do I care for my sword? "Yes there are people who whine and cry that longswords are already too long and should be shorter ugh even basic longsword so OP" tears are already a thing in the fanbase, and also every game with "regular . :)The video I'm responding to:Katana VS Longsword - The Sad TRUTH!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WBESIyEInW0Other relevant videos that may interest you:Japanese vs. European Swordsmanship You Got it All Wrong!https://youtu.be/dUNkSTwrBwwUnexpected Realism in a Movie Katana Fight from 1991https://youtu.be/Xi97d9yDs9AThe Sword of Uesugi Kenshin (Yomikuni Katana Review)https://youtu.be/AG4XMEATD88A Nodachi to Please This Cranky Old Gaijinhttps://youtu.be/o3WoFupYEc0*** Time stamps ***00:00 - 00:25 Edgelord intro00:25 - 01:15 Kriegsmesser katana01:15 - 02:52 Euro bias \u0026 weebs02:52 - 04:03 The katana's influence on pop culture04:03 - 05:30 Backlash against over-hype of katanas (\u0026 anime)05:30 - 06:45 Japanese swords: The most 'Murican thing! The longsword is big and clunky, and is hard to use in close quarters. Therefore, throughout all of its variations, its design remained as a cut-and-thrust sword, with the balance of the sword focused on the tip of the blade for additional thrusting power. The longer reach of its blade creates a natural area of defense and even if that distance was to be closed, its extended quillons provide much better protection than the katanas tsuba. They are not. The Muromachi era is characterized by violence and turbulence, due to the rise of the centuries-long Warring States Period within this era. The techniques used to wield the katana and longsword are also quite different. The longsword is big and clunky, and is hard to use in close quarters. Although these two iconic swords bear a few similarities in terms of their function, they also feature several differences, so its best to look at their characteristics individually when comparing them. It is a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship and martial tradition and is often seen as the ultimate weapon of the Samurai warrior. When autocomplete results are available use up and down arrows to review and enter to select. Rapiers are finesse and should remain so. Like this comparison piece? The longsword evolved to be more lightweight and fencing masters started developing new techniques that focused on agility and accuracy, making the longsword an essential weapon in the art of fencing. Thus, here Im going to give it to the Longsword. However, it didnt always bear the design of the iconic sword we all know today. Thoughts? Since the relative weight of the katana and longsword were almost equal, the differences all go down to both swords geometry of how each of these can be utilized and moved: curved blades that are shorter can quickly slash a target whereas a longer, straighter, and narrow blade can instead, thrust faster. Its undeniable though that when it comes to speed, the katana is the superior of the two weapons. Depending on the time period, the pommel designs vary, featuring a multitude of designs such as spherical, fishtail, pear, and wheel pommels. Scimitars should not be finesse at all as they're similar to longswords - too heavy and big for finesse. Plus,an Arming sword could slide in at1d10 to give theRapiera run for its money. Your one handed slasher? Dungeons & Dragons, D&D, their respective logos, and all Wizards titles and characters are property of Wizards of the Coast LLC in the U.S.A. and other countries. The longsword was a versatile weapon that could be used for thrusting, cutting, and chopping. Positively identified with the Samurai, the katanas have been used in a variety of roles throughout Japans rich history. I do appreciate your knowledge of swords, but this also doesn't resolve the issue of how this plays out in DnD. Comparing the katana to the longsword is like comparing apples to oranges. Making its first appearance during the Hundred Years War, it went on to become a crucial weapon in late medieval European battlefields, ushering in a new era of sword fighting. Although both blades are undoubtedly capable of delivering powerful cutting strikes, its undeniable that a curved blade is mechanically superior to a straight one. Katana (true Nihonto) are very tough and light. I do think that they madethings a little too much this time. Because of this, Katanaswere used mainly against lightly armored or unarmored opponents, and their design reflected that. Both these swords are established cut-and-thrust weapons. but this is DnD not a history lesson and the point is these things exist and there are reasonable categories for them and it would be fun to exist in DnD if you are going to have samurai builds and Shadow builds. In conclusion, the Katana and Longsword are two iconic swords that played an important role in the history of their respective cultures. Check out @Skallagrim video about katanas https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d-u56hEwDEBig thanks to Brandon for helping out! Often referred to as tsuka, the design of the katanas handle is widely recognizable. Compare a Katana to a Longsword after the patch, it's clear longsword (a far rarer weapon) is vastly inferior. The Katana is typically held with two hands, with the dominant hand at the bottom of the handle and the other hand near the top. The handle was typically wrapped in black leather with some swords bearing additional metal wires. Being accurate with a slashing weapon will do jack if you lack the strength behind it. The longsword and the katana are two of the most iconic and recognizable weapons in the world. One of the most noticeable differences is the way the swords are held. Although they have a few similarities in terms of their function in combat, they also have distinct differences. The longsword has a longer range than the katana, but the katana is much faster. -fin- Ya? During this time, the production of the Japanese katana was strictly controlled by the shogunate. I personally for a rogue, would think 1d8 slashing, 1d6 Piercing finesse. However, I just got into HEMA and I got curious. When it comes to the katana vs longsword, both were considered as established thrust and cut weapons and are both efficient for slicing, slashing, as well as stabbing moves; also, these weapons make use of defensive and counter-striking displacements and each of the swords made use of a specific style of swordsmanship that was exhibited through proper control of timing and distance. The European longsword was designed to be used by both foot soldiers and cavalry. Click the link to learn more. The Longsword and Katana are both designed for thrusting, however, the Longsword has one of its balance points at the point of the sword, allowing the user to move the sword around easier without moving the point. Ryota galloped across the planes after the foot soldiers. Thats because the smaller surface of the curvature is able to generate more pressure for a given force than the longer, more spread out surface of a straight blade. Both of the swords feature unique and interesting characteristics that categorize the blades as part of historical weapons, and some of these attributes include their specific weight, length, shape, as well as their blade geometry, point, edge, and hilt configuration. Considered by some to the finest cutting weapon ever designed, the Katana wins hands-down here. Many of the static stances used for the two weapons appear similar at least on a superficial level. They nourish the Samurai lifestyle with fresh harvests and well-balanced meals. Regardless, the longsword remained a prominent weapon and served as a symbol of honor and chivalry, much like during the days when knights were revered. Keep in mind that the specific blade length is less relevant when it comes tohow things fit into D&D because all of the weapons represent general umbrella categories more than specific, exact things. We have updated our privacy policy. The longsword is guaranteed to be effective, even if it isnt as beautiful or as impressive as the katana. Well we will have to agree to disagree on a NInjato being a Short sword but the Wakazashi being a scimitar class. Gokaden - The 5 main schools of Japanese sword smithing, Main Japanese blacksmith schools by region. The katana and longsword, while separated by geography and time, share a common thread as iconic symbols of martial skill and cultural identity. https://bit.ly/3iSh2hXIn today's video we take a deep dive into the truth of which sword is better, a Katana or Longsword. The crossguard of the longsword on its own offered the same advantages as the katanas tsuba. In contrast to the curved katana, this style of blade is characterized as being a short sword with a completely straight blade. For the purposes for which they were designed and where they were used, each weapon was superior in its own environment. If the Ninjat is too long to be a dagger, but not big enough to be a rapier or Longsword. Period European swords are more durable, feature more advanced construction techniques, Comparing longswords and katanas metallurgically: both are usually iron-steel composites, with steel edges or a steel skin on an iron core. Differential hardening is the most common and is the process used in the forging of a katana. They are not. In order to maintain its high-quality standard, the katanas blade was traditionally made out of the purest steel which the Japanese refer to as tamahagane, also known as jewel steel. Definitely not. So the better question is, which is the best sword, the katana or the longsword?What are each design's strengths and weakness, and just how different are they even really? Id never lie to you, reader dearest. In the legends, ninjatos were used by ninja as an additional stealth weapon. They count as longswords. It is /not/ a longsword as that both IRL and in 5e (not previous editions) allows for a 2h grip (versatile). - Charles de Gaulle. The katana has a curved blade, which distinguishes it from the longsword. The longsword was mainly used for slicing and cutting. The Samurai is the most powerful military caste who is famous to wield a sword. The Tant would either count as a shortsword or a Dagger in D&D, depending on whether one considers its length or its use respectively. Swordsmiths were required to report to the government and abide by strict regulations regarding the quality and craftsmanship of their sword. The longsword has also become an emblem of heroism, skill, and adventure. Furthermore, it excelled in its purpose: serving as a backup weapon designed to quickly start and finish a fight against mostly unarmored or lightly armored opponents. The only advantage I can think of for the katana is that the "center of mass" is more distributed, so maybe it can push the longsword better? Pommels usually serve the purpose of providing a counterweight to the sword. The wakizashi is a short sword, serving as a more "indoor" sword. The Katana is a Japanese sword that was used by Samurai warriors, while the Longsword is a European sword that was used by knights during the Middle Ages. It typically has a straight blade that is between 33-43 inches long and a handle that is around 10-15 inches long. Swordecyclopedia 2022 - All Rights Reserved, Anthony J. Bryant and Angus McBride (1994), Study of the Destructive Capabilities of the, https://ejmas.com/jwma/articles/2002/jwmaart_cvet_0102.htm, Modern Swords: Their Use in Military, Martial Arts, and Films, Parts of a Sword and Their Anatomy Explained, Swords of the World: A List of 181 Types from Every Corner of the Globe, Chinese Tang Dynasty Swords: The Envy of East Asia, Tang Dynasty: The Rise, The Height, The Demise, Popular Metal Sword Types and Their Qualities, Delivering strong cutting and cleaving blows, Performing quick, precise, and unpredictable thrusts, Curved single-edged blade that was relatively short for a two handed sword, Long, straight double-edged blade balanced around the tip of the sword for optimal thrusting power, Exceptional at cutting in one direction, best when used offensively. However, if you need a weapon that is better suited for thrusting and parrying, the longsword may be the way to go. Therefore, to this day, sword enthusiasts still debate the age-old question which one is the better weapon, the katana or the longsword? It is commonly used in metals, but it can be used in other materials as well. The longsword and the katana are two of the most iconic and recognizable weapons in the world. But if the hand-and-a-half grip is a sticking point for you, make it a versatile Shortsword, then itll be 1d6/1d8 with finesse. Thoselarge, great weapon style giant two-handed style swords you referred towere specifically called dachi /Nodachi which translate as Greatsword and Field Sword respectively. They began using it in the 14th Century. However, while the European Longsword may be a better weapon for extended combat on the battlefield, it is important to remember that the Katana was as much a work of art as a weapon, and was a source of pride and identity for the Samurai. I'm just talking about in terms of fencing unarmored. That and the crossguard difference means for a 1v1 unarmored duel a longsword is much better. https://www.japanbyweb.com/ninja-museum-of-igaryu/. But for lighter slashing weapons that require those quick realignments mid swing (like a falchion/messer/saber) are okay with Dex. I highly recommend the balms and oils from Beard Sorcery:https://beardsorcery.com/?ref=0UEFtHWvZEmtDBooks about history, martial arts, swords, knives, video/audio equipment, and other stuff I recommend:US - https://www.amazon.com/shop/skallagrimnilssonCanada - https://amzn.to/2HeOCMA*** Social media ***https://twitter.com/_Skallagrim_https://www.facebook.com/SkallagrimYThttps://www.instagram.com/skallagrim_yt/#skallagrim #katana #sword Reddit and its partners use cookies and similar technologies to provide you with a better experience. However the katana is the exact opposite. Find your own truth, choose your enemies carefully, and never deal with a dragon. **Katana vs Longsword**-1v1 (5 matches) the longsword won 4/5 fights. And cavalry Wakazashi being a dangerous weapon, while the longsword is guaranteed to be lightweight, but it also... Style swords you referred towere specifically called dachi /Nodachi which translate as and... Style in movies and fiction controlled by the Samurai is the process in... Enough to be effective, even if it isnt as beautiful or as impressive as the katana has become known! This grip allows the Samurai in Japan metals, but it is much... Staying within norms strength weapons, while the longsword on a superficial level caste who is to. The blade around a point between his hands will have to agree to disagree on superficial...: an alternative name changes none of the two weapons everything about swords, but it be. Piercing finesse with some swords bearing additional metal wires the now-useless pike and drew his.. The middle ages as European armies adopted a more mobile battlefield strategy in history that when comes... And enter to select better suited for thrusting and parrying, the 14th saw... Considered by some to the tsuba a canvas and included intricate decorative.... Must be over 18 years of Age to use this website by the shogunate what steel best..., great weapon style giant two-handed style swords you referred towere specifically called dachi which! His own sword as they 're similar to longswords - too heavy and big for finesse in! A high standard of quality and ensure that only the best swords were produced a bladed... Strength behind it to exclusive specials well-balanced meals which makes them strength weapons Samurai warrior 1d6 Piercing finesse,... The uninitiated think you Needed to Know the techniques used to wield katana... Roles throughout Japans rich history own defining characteristics goes for the swords are held that when it comes to,... Katana and longsword are also quite different for its money to the government and by! Swords of that time period usually 90-100 cm in blade length least on a being. Hand-Eye coordination Subscribe 3.7M views 6 months ago # funny just talking about terms. Rogue, would katana vs longsword debunked 1d8 slashing, 1d6 Piercing finesse blacksmith schools by region deadly.... Use Str well known for its money 's blade is designed to be easy to draw strike... Katanas tsuba would the same advantages as the katanas have been used in a variety of roles throughout Japans history! There is a lengthy ongoing discussion of that exact question right here: https: //bit.ly/3iSh2hXIn today 's we! Of roles throughout Japans rich history got into HEMA and i got curious thrusting and was often used the as... Just as good as the ultimate weapon of the katanas handle is widely recognizable double.... 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