Japanese Kodachi    

Just when you thought there could be no more Japanese sword variations, yet there is one more.  The Kodachi, is a wonderful example of Japanese sword making ability.  Like the Tanto this weapon lacked the artistic flair of the Katana or Tachi.  It was a weapon, pure and simple.  The Kodachi, was longer than a dagger but shorter than a Katana; it was the in between weapon.  You may pose the question, “but doesn’t the Wakizashi fill that ‘in-betwee’ niche?”  Close but not quite.  The Wakizashi, was coupled with the Katana, and it’s length was created based on the height of the wielder.  It was a custom weapon.  The Kodachi on the other hand, was a standard length – ‘one size fits all’ weapon. 

Because of the Kodachi’s size, it could be drawn and swung extremely quickly. Thus, the Kodachi could be used as something of a shield, while using a form of hand to hand combat to attack. The Kodachi also features greater curvature than a Wakizashi.

In all the Kodachi is a beautiful weapon, and could easily round out the sword enthusiasts collection.  The Kodachi, is larger than a dagger, but smaller than a Katana and therefore can fit into virtually any room when trying to figure how to display the weapon.  Pay attention to the handle type or the hilt.  The ornate decorations used for these weapons can create a stunning addition to the décor of the room without over powering the room, which sometimes happens with a larger sword.  Todays’ afficonado will have ample opportunities and selections to choose from when purchasing the Kodachi, and so in the end it isn’t so much as “Can I find the right one”, as much as it is more “Of all these ones to choose from, how can I fit them ALL into my room.”