PUBLIC MARKS with tags sword & glossary

Online Nihonto Glossary with English and Japanese Text

This glossary is intended to provide a basic vocabulary to beginning sword collectors and practitioners. Terms are listed alphabetically and can be accessed directly from the letters below.

Welcome to the Japanese Sword Guide. I started this site several years ago to share my enjoyment of the art of the Japanese sword and to aid others in understanding this complex topic. I have been a student of the Japanese sword for about 30 years although I've been studying antique knives and swords of various types including bowie knives, kris (keris), puukko, antique pocket knives, bronze age weapons, damascus steel knives and swords, and early English cutlery for well over 50 years. I enjoy all types of fine cutlery.