Hanbon Forge – Oni Demon Nodachi Sword

Instead of another katana, why not get a Nodachi to round out your Japanese blade collection? The “greatsword” of feudal Japan, the Nodachi was a specialized battlefield weapon designed to break up formations, threaten cavalry and be able to strike beyond the reach of other swordsmen and dominate the distance of the fight. This one from Hanbon Forge is a particularly handsome example and though it looks like a katana, its greater stature and proportions come alive in the hand and it becomes clear that the Nodachi is a different beast of a weapon that needs its own specialized technique to come into its own and to make best use of its impressive striking power, reach and tip velocity.

The imposing 36 inch blade is forged from resilient and durable 1095 high carbon steel and both well-tempered and sharpened for use. For as long as the blade is, the bo-hi groove the runs almost the whole length of the blade greatly reduces weight and keeps the sword surprisingly easy to use at less than 3 lbs of weight and balanced at 6 inches above the hilt. The tsuba, fuchi and kashira hilt components are well cast alloy with an antiqued brass finish. The long hardwood tsuka grip is matched with panels of genuine same rayskin with a green lacquered finish. Knotted green tsuka-ito of synthetic silk bound over the grip completes the sword. Included with the sword is a cloth sword bag, a scabbard bag, a manufacturer’s production certificate, sword stand and a gift / display box for a complete presentation.

The Nodachi (野太刀), meaning “field sword,” is a large Japanese sword characterized by its exceptionally long blade and imposing presence. Used primarily from the medieval period onward, the Nodachi was particularly suited to open-field warfare, where its extended reach and powerful cutting ability could be brought to bear against enemy infantry and cavalry. Its size made it considerably more difficult to wield than a conventional katana, requiring considerable strength, skill, and space to use effectively. Often associated with the battlefield warrior, the Nodachi embodies the samurai ideals of martial prowess, discipline, and courage, while its dramatic proportions have made it one of the most distinctive and formidable forms of traditional Japanese sword.