Blade evolution

[Tiger Ed]

:smilejapa

We all know that the Katana blade developed over the years as new techniques etc were designed.

How did the blade change when Samurai were not wearing armour all the time and the main use of the swords were not in battle, what changes, if any, were made for this?

Since they did not have to pierce armour alot of the time only clothing, did the Niku get smaller and the blade thinner and longer or did they stay the same?

:smilejapa

[Ren Blade]

Hi Edward. This article can help you.

http://www.bugei.com/niku.html

[Tiger Ed]

That is the thread that got me to post. I wanted to know about different styles history and what other think. Is there was more of a trend or anything like that

Trying to expand it a little you see.

Thanks anyway.

[Ren Blade]

Oh I see. Well, then that's beyond me now. I hope someone here can answer that question.

[Kriss]

Hi,

The evolution from tachi (cavalry sword worn with the "ha" downside) to the katana worn with the "ha" upside occured somewhere between the 16th and the 17th century. Around early Tokugawa period if I could remember what I have read elsewhere.

Less cavalry charge in battles. More combat on foot. Change of clothing too, (here comes the hakama).

May be a more knowledgeable member of the forum will tell us the story.

Cheers.

[TimothyKleinert]

Don't quote on this, as I'm not an expert, but...

A while ago, on these boards, one of more knowledge people said that many of style changes to the design of swords (length, sori, hamon, etc) were for largely aestethic(sp?) reasons, and had little to do with 'practical' concerns. Or to put it another way, the design of swords was subjected to the fashion trends of the day.

Obviously, not ALL changes were made for these reasons, but many were.

Now, hopefully, I haven't stuck my foot too far into my mouth.

Hey, I found that old thread!... I think.
http://www.e-budo.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?s=&threadid=22268
It's down a ways. The post I am referring to was written by W.Bontiford.

[Tiger Ed]

Katana on foot, curved is easier to draw yes and we all know the curves blade gives better cuts when riding and slices better.