Wakizashi

Wakizashi – Handmade Japanese Short Swords for Training & Collection

The Wakizashi (脇差) is a traditional Japanese short sword historically worn by samurai alongside the katana. It served as a backup weapon and was essential for indoor combat, close-range defense, and ceremonial use. Today, wakizashi swords are widely used for martial arts training, tameshigiri cutting practice, cosplay, and Japanese sword collecting.

At HanBon Forge, every wakizashi is hand-forged using high-carbon steel, offering excellent balance, durability, and cutting performance for both practitioners and collectors.

What Is a Wakizashi?

The wakizashi is a short Japanese sword typically ranging from 30 cm to 60 cm blade length, traditionally worn through the obi (belt). It was part of the samurai daishō pairing (katana + wakizashi), symbolizing status and honor.

Key characteristics:

• Shorter blade than a katana
• Designed for close-quarters combat
• Worn indoors where katana was often removed
• Used as a backup weapon and for ritual purposes

Handmade Wakizashi – Built for Real Use

At HanBon Forge, our wakizashi swords are not decorative replicas. They are fully functional Japanese-style blades crafted for performance and durability.

Features:

• Full tang construction for strength
• High carbon steel options (T10 / 1060 / 1095 / folded steel)
• Balanced design for fast handling
• Razor-sharp edge suitable for tameshigiri
• Custom fittings, handle wraps, and saya options

Best Uses for Wakizashi Swords

Our handmade wakizashi swords are ideal for:

• Iaido & Kenjutsu training
• Tameshigiri cutting practice
• Samurai sword collections
• Cosplay & film props
• Martial arts demonstration weapons

The compact size makes it especially effective for fast draw, indoor training, and controlled cutting practice.

Custom Wakizashi Options

Build your own wakizashi with full customization:

• Blade steel: T10 / 1060 / 1095 / Folded Steel
• Blade finish: Polished / clay-tempered hamon
• Tsuka (handle): Silk / cotton / leather wrap
• Saya (scabbard): Gloss, matte, or battle-worn finish
• Fittings: Iron / brass / alloy styles
• Optional engraving available

Why Choose HanBon Forge Wakizashi?

• Direct forge pricing (no middlemen)
• Traditional hand-forging methods
• Fully functional cutting swords
• Worldwide shipping available
• Custom build support for practitioners & collectors

Each wakizashi is made with attention to balance, durability, and cutting performance, not just display aesthetics.