Longsword

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Longsword - Functionality and Aesthetic for Martial Artists and Collectors Are you a passionate sword collector or martial artist? You've probably stumbled upon one of the most popular and admirable categories of Japanese swordsmanship - longswords. In fact, as a country, Japan is best known and respected for its unique design, premium materials, and handicrafts. Some of their most iconic longswords are believed to defeat every opponent. Let's see what you learn in this article: The different types of longswords Use, origin, and differences between then Symbolism Collectors' tips for maintenance Useful information for martial artists Longsword: Meaning, Types, Origin, Longsword refers to a blade longer than 26 inches, expressed in Japanese traditional measurement units - two shaku. Longswords can be different blade shapes, straight and curved, and have various handle designs, people often call these longswords Daito. Longer reach determined the specific use of these great weapons on the battlefield. Historians and weapon experts believe that Japanese longswords were the deadliest samurai weapons of their time. Warriors used them to break formations and as pikes. Here are the most distinguishable types of longswords: Nodachi - four feet long blade Odachi - curved long blade, similar to Nodachi Naginata - the most famous battle sword, the longest Japanese sword ever made Nagamaki - the same blade and handle length Symbolism Longswords are heavy two-hand swords, so only strong warriors can carry them. These samurai swords stand for strength, honor, and bravery. Like other samurai swords, they symbolize discipline, justice, compassion, and integrity. Collectors' Tips for Maintenance If you are new in the sword world, it is easy to get intimidated by all the tips available online for proper sword maintenance. Longswords are beautiful, and to keep their original look and performance at peak, here are a few tips to use: Use mineral oil for oiling the blade every six months