How to know the proper length of a katana
There are a few different ways to measure a katana, depending on what you're looking for. The most common way to measure a katana is from the tip of the blade to the hilt, which is called the "katana length." This measurement is generally between 60 and 70 centimeters, or about 24 to 28 inches.
Another way to measure a katana is from the start of the blade curve to the end of the handle. This measurement is called the "curb length" and is generally between 50 and 60 centimeters, or about 20 to 24 inches.
Finally, you can also measure a katana by its overall length, which includes the handle and the scabbard. This measurement is called the "nagasa" and is generally between 90 and 100 centimeters, or about 36 to 40 inches.
Nagasa (長さ) is the Japanese word for "length". It is a common measurement used for the length of a sword. There are two main units of measurement for nagasa: the shaku (尺) and the sun (寸). The shaku is the larger unit, and is equal to about 30 cm (11.8 in). The sun is the smaller unit, and is equal to about 3 cm (1.2 in).
What is the average length of a katana
The average katana length is about 60 cm. The length of a katana can vary depending on the specific sword, but is typically between 60 and 80 cm (23.62–31.5 in). However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. Some katanas made for ceremonial purposes may be much shorter or much longer than this. And, of course, there are always custom-made katanas that can be any length the customer desires.
Katanas are traditionally used as two-handed swords, so the extra length provides more leverage and power when swinging the sword. However, some people do use them as one-handed swords, in which case a shorter katana would be more suitable. Ultimately, it is up to the individual swordsman to decide what length works best for them.
Best katana blade length
While the length of a katana may seem like a minor detail, it can actually have a significant impact on how the sword is used. For example, a shorter katana may be better suited for close-quarters combat, while a longer katana may be better suited for open-field combat. The length of the katana also affects the balance of the sword, with longer katanas being more difficult to control than shorter ones.
So, what is the best length for a katana? Ultimately, it depends on the individual swordsman and his or her specific needs. Some swordsmen prefer longer katanas for the added reach they provide, while others prefer shorter katanas for the greater control they offer. There is no right or wrong answer here – it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
How to choose katana length
There are a few things to consider when choosing the length of your katana.
First, think about what you'll be using the katana for. If you plan on using it primarily for decoration, then a shorter blade might be better. However, if you plan on using your katana for training or actual combat, then a longer blade might be better.
Second, consider your own height and size. A taller person might be able to handle a longer blade, while a shorter person might find a shorter blade easier to control.
Third, think about the length of the katana's hilt. A longer hilt can provide more leverage when swinging the sword, while a shorter hilt might be easier to control. Finally, consider the weight of the katana. A heavier sword will be more difficult to swing, but it will also have more power behind it.
Choose the length of your katana based on these factors, and you'll be sure to find the perfect blade for you.
Katana shaku method
An effective method to choose a katana adapted to your size is to refer to the shaku method.
A shaku is a Japanese unit of measurement that is equal to approximately 1 foot (30 centimeters). The shaku was originally used as a unit of measure for fabric and other textiles, but it is also to measure the length of Japanese swords. The standard length for a katana, for example, is generally between two and three shaku.
Here is the table of recommendations of the length of the blade (handle not included) of the katana according to your size.
| Swordsman's height (cm | in) | Katana length (cm | in) | Shaku |
| 150 | 4'11'' | 66.7 | 26.2" | 2.20 |
| 155 | 5'1'' |
68.2 | 26.8'' |
2.25 |
| 160 | 5'3'' |
69.7 | 27.4'' |
2.30 |
| 165 | 5'5'' |
71.2 | 28'' |
2.35 |
| 170 | 5'7'' | 72.7 | 28.6'' | 2.40 |
| 175 | 5'9'' | 74.2 | 29.2'' | 2.45 |
| 180 | 5'11'' | 75.8 | 29.8'' | 2.50 |
| 185 | 6'1'' | 77.3 | 30.4'' | 2.55 |
| 190 | 6'3'' | 78.8 | 31'' | 2.60 |
