(Newswire.net — October 26, 2018) — The wakizashi and tanto are two of the most popular traditionally made Japanese swords. Both of them originated in the feudal period in Japan and were often carried by Samurai at that time. So, what is the difference between wakizashi vs tanto? Here are three things you need to know.
Differences in Length and Size
The most significant difference between the wakizashi and the tanto is their length and size. While there are always a few exceptions, most standard wakizashis feature a blade length of around 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 25 inches), while most standard tantos feature an average blade length of from 20 to 30 centimeters (8 to 12 inches).
With a longer blade, experts state that the wakizashi comes with an unmatched strength and performance compared to the tantos. It enabled samurai warriors to approach and engage their enemy from a safe distance and get a considerable advantage in the battle. Whether cavalry or infantry, samurai warriors would protect themselves from dangers while using the wakizashi. Due to its shorter and smaller shape, the tanto was often used in close-quarter combats. If the samurai warrior was suddenly attacked in a small area, he would pull out his tanto quickly to defend himself.
Differences in Use
As said earlier, the variation in length and size allowed the samurai warriors to use the wakizashi and the tanto for different purposes. In the feudal period, all Japanese samurai warriors were required to carry 2 swords by law, a rule known as daisho. These included the primary sword – the takana and the backup sword – the wakizashi. In many cases, some samurai warriors carried both of them during the battle or dangerous situations. In fact, wearing both the wakizashi and the katana was the official sign of a samurai.
The tanto, on the other hand, was initially used as a weapon to stab and pierce the enemy’s amour in a fight. Also, thanks to its small size and length, it was very useful for the warriors to defend indoors where a long sword might be inconvenient. However, this type of weapon gradually evolved over the years in design and became more ornate. Unlike the wakizashi and katana, commoners can also wear a tanto alongside with them just like samurais for defending purposes.
The Tanto Came Before the Wakizashi
The tanto was actually created and popularly used before the wakizashi. Many documented reports of the tanto date back to Japan’s Heian period (from 794 to 1185), during which this type of dabber was forged to be more aesthetically pleasing. The primary use of the tanto was a type of stabbing weapon and slashing tool. It features a distinctively thick cross part which aids in piercing the enemy’s armor.
On the other hand, it was not until the 15th or 16th century that the wakizashi was used by samurai as an auxiliary or backup sword for the katana. Originally, this type of sword was used for close fighting to behead a defeated opponent or commit the seppuku, the ritual suicide.
So what is wakizashi vs. tanto, and what’s the difference? While both the wakizashi and tanto swords originated from the same era, they both have their differences. The main difference between the two are their size. The tanto’s blade is shower than the wakizashi’s, and they are both used in different ways during battle.