Katana: The Samurai Sword

The katana is the ultimate evolution of the Japanese sword, whose traditions date back to ancient Japan. Arguably the finest edged weapon ever made, combining a lethal cutting edge and with a flexible and resilient core, a fine katana is as much a work of art as a deadly weapon. For centuries it was also the defining icon of the samurai, as it was above all the possession of a katana that identified those belonging to Japan’s warrior class. 

This book explores the astonishing craftsmanship that gave the katana its particular qualities, as well as the swordmanship of famous samurai and great masters, and recounts dramatic tales of the katana’s use – from private duels and revenge killings to its role in full-scale samurai warfare. 

• Written by Stephen Turnbull
• Number 5 in the Weapon series
• Paperback edition 
• Published in 2010 
• 80 pages
• Dimensions: 18cm x 25cm