nihonto

A Japanese style sword made in Japan by a Japanese swordsmith.

Literally, Japanese sword.

While an American can make a Japanese style sword, it cannot be called a nihonto.

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katana

A Japanese style long sword that is curved, and worn thrust through the belt. The primary weapon of the samurai. Can also be called daito (long sword) and, if made in Japan, nihonto (Japanese sword).

Iaido, or the art of drawing the sword, teaches one to use the katana.

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