The History and Pros and Cons of the Naginata sword

what is a naginata

The naginata katana, known as the long sword or brow-tipped sword, is a traditional Japanese weapon with a wide, curved blade on a pole. Warrior monks initially used it to guard temples during the Nara and Heian periods, showcasing its impressive performance.

However, from the late Kamakura period to the Muromachi period, it became the primary weapon on the battlefield. During the Ōnin War, spears replaced it because it was not effective for close combat.

During the Edo period, there was a period when the carrying of naginata was prohibited for Japanese warriors by the Tokugawa shogunate. The prohibition targeted 'large naginata,' causing difficulties for the inheritance of the martial arts associated with the weapon.

Therefore, the naginata as a 'must-learn martial art for samurai women' survived. Influenced by this, the women's martial art 'female naginata' appeared as a professional school. From the Taisho era to the end of World War II, naginata-jutsu, as women's bushido, was called 'なぎなた' (naginata), and it is also very popular as a modern competitive event.

Advantages

* It has both a broad and long attack range.

* Its damage is higher than that of a katana but lower than that of a halberd.

* It can be used to inflict a large amount of damage on an entire team at once.

* It can destroy ammo boxes at the same speed as a hammer.

Drawbacks

* Its attack time is long.

* It is relatively rare and may not always spawn.

* As it is a polearm, it is difficult to hide when wielded.

* Being a rare weapon, enemies may be attracted to it.

* The handle part does not cause damage when swung.

Strategy

* The use strategy of the naginata is similar to that of the katana, except that this weapon has a longer attack range, higher damage, and slower attack speed.

* In close combat, the naginata's wide attack range allows you to hit enemies even when they can't hit you, making it its greatest advantage. Additionally, facing an unarmored enemy, you only need two hits to kill them.

* This weapon is also handy outdoors, especially when enemies try to get close for a quick attack. Simply draw the naginata and engage in battle, as your chances of winning are relatively high.

Hand-Forged Japanese Naginata Sword 1095 Steel Clay Tsuba Made Of Hardened Brass

  At some events, fans demonstrate their swordsmanship skills, paying tribute to anime's legendary battles. Conventions even hold swordsmanship competitions, letting enthusiasts showcase their passion and creativity with these iconic weapons. Certain anime weapons hold special significance for fans, influencing anime swordsmanship and sparking interest in related merchandise. Celebrations at various anime events further boost their popularity. These weapons symbolize strength and courage, leaving a lasting mark on the anime world.