Japanese Odachi Sword

By Crusader1307

The Odachi were Feudal Japans version of the European “Great Swords”. These Katana-type blades ranged from 40 to 90-inches in length!. The handles were also large (ranging from 12 to 16 inches). They could weight up to 15-pounds. Constructed with the same care as a Katana (taking many months of Swordsmithing and polishing), they were kept in scabbards. Sometimes used ceremonially as a “pre-battle blessing”, The Odachi was used by Cavalry Forces. The Odachi was seen in the 16th Century.