Basic Weapons

Name: Katana
Classification: Sword
Rank: D
Description:
The Katana is generally defined as the standard size, moderately curved Japanese sword. This specific katana has a blade length of 36 inches, and width of 1.5 inches. The hilt measures twelve inches in length. The Katana is sturdy yet will break if enough pressure is placed against it. It is sharpened on only one side yet extremely so, as it is made for slicing and stabbing. Some such weapons, have no tip for stabbing. Instead, the blade comes to a squared end.

Name: Ninjatō
Classification: Sword
Rank: D
Description:
This is the most common sword of any Shinobi choosing to wield such a bladed weapon. It is a short sword that possess a straight blade with a square tsuba. The Ninjatō is 36 inches in total length and weigh only 2 pounds. The blade measures 26 inches and the hilt ten. The scabbard of the Ninjatō is usually longer than the sword itself, to facilitate faster drawing of the weapon. It is sturdy and sharpened on only one side.

Name: Tantō
Classification: Short Sword
Rank: D
Description:
The Tantō is simply a smaller version of the katana or ninjatō. It usually measures no more than 30 inches in total length.

Name: Nodachi
Classification: Field Sword
Rank: C
Description:
A nodachi is a large two-handed Japanese field sword. Similar in every way to the katana with the exception of size, the nodachi takes more skill to use as the blade is longer and thus not practical for closer combat. The blade measures 48 -60 inches in length and the hilt measures twelve inches in length. The blade is sharpened on one side.

Name: Naginata
Classification: Pole Arm
Rank: C
Description:
A naginata consists of a wooden shaft with a curved blade on the end. Usually a naginata has a tsuba between the blade and shaft. The blade measures anywhere from twelve to 24 inches. The shaft is usually 48 -60 inches long. This is ideal for long-range, close combat that keeps the wielder out of the opponents reach.

Name: Manrikigusari
Classification: Chain and Weight
Rank: C
Description:
Manrikigusari is a hand held weapon used in feudal Japan consisting of a length of chain with a weight connected to each end of the chain. The length of chain varies anywhere from twelve inches to 48 inches. The weights are usually iron on both sides, with one side being fashioned much like a handle. The Manrikigusari is used as a hidden or concealed weapon and as a self defense weapon. It can be swung above the head and used to bind an opponent or cause blunt damage if swung.

Name: Bō
Classification: Long Staff
Rank: D
Description:
The Bō is a Japanese long staff weapon which is typically around 6 feet in length. It is made of hard wood such as red or white oak, or bamboo.

Name: Sasumata
Classification: Mancatcher
Rank: C
Description:
The Sasumata is a Japanese mancatcher and firefighting tool. It measures 78 - 80 inches in length, with a U-shaped head. The shaft is sturdy, iron-enforced wood. Spikes and other sharp protrusions can be found along the top of the pole, near the head.

Name: Kusarigama
Classification: Sickle and Chain
Rank: C
Description:
The Kusarigama is a traditional Japanese weapon. It is a sharp sickle attached to a weighted chain. It may be used to attack opponents, or to incapacitate them with the chain. Some skilled kusarigama users can even steal their opponents' weapons by throwing the chain so as to wrap it around the opponent's weapon. The sickle is usually used for striking and slashing while the weighted end of the chain is swung at the opponent to bind them, steal their weapon, or cause blunt damage. However, skilled users have been able to swing the sickle end as well, thus not employing the chain in the above manner, despite that being the most effective use of the weapon.