Samurai swords have long been an integral part of Japanese history and culture. The Samurai sword came to symbolize the proud warrior tradition of the Japanese elite, serving them both in ancient times and into the modern during World War II.

This warrior tradition has early roots, starting at the turn of the first millenium with a rising class of warrior aristocrats. The Samurai served his Daimyo, or feudal lord, until death.

As a part of this important service, the Samurai came to be identified with the swords that he carried.

The origins of the Samurai sword are shrouded in mystery, with several legends surrounding its appearance and gradual evolution. Amakuni Yasutsuna is said to have forged the first Samurai sword in the service of the Emperor.

The curved shape of the blade became more pronounced over the years. Masamune is another legendary figure in the Samurai tradition, having produced some of the most prized swords in the history of Japan. Produced as weapons of war, the Masamune line of swords is widely regarded to be the height of craftsmanship.

The first Samurai swords were made in a simple fashion, with straight blades. Later improvements in design would introduce the curved shape of the blade that is more familiar today. The curve is a product of the quenching process, during which rapid changes in temperature cause the metal to contract.

The blade has a reputation for its deadliness, especially when in the hands of a Samurai. The blade was usually worn with the edge facing up, so that the drawing of the sword could lead quickly to an attack. The katana is famed for its sharpness, where European blades tended to be larger, inflicting more of a blunt force attack.

You can find Japanese swords in two major varieties, with longer swords commonly known as the katana, and the shorter variety known as a wakizashi. These swords symbolized the worth and integrity of a man, and were among his most important possessions. Samurai swords also had a religious significance that was crucial in Japanese society.

Samurai swords stood for purity, rarity, and value. The development of the swords began at the turn of the millenia, with the swords introduced from China and Korea. Talented blacksmiths arrived in Japan during this time, teaching their craft to others.

The forging process of a real japanese katana remained a matter of pride and fine craftsmanship until the 16th century and the introduction of the gun into Japan. The gun changed the dynamics of warfare forever, and many swordsmiths focused instead on building guns for a more modern army. This shift in focus resulted in a loss of skill when it came to sword production, with many of the old secrets dying away. The Samurai class retained the sword, however, and production continued in a more decorative style. As Japan approached the twentieth century, Samurai swords largley became decorative fixtures for the upper class. In 1876, Japan banned the wearing of swords, officially bringing to an end the Samurai class.

World War II saw a strong return of the Samurai sword with the feverish pitch of nationalism that gripped Japan. Thousands of Japanese officers wore swords during the war, and this period accounts for a great deal of the collectible items that are seen today.

When looking for an authentic Samurai sword, it pays to be wary of factory replicas that have flooded the collectible market. Ebay and other such sites may have Samurai swords available, but care should be used when looking for an authentic item.