Wakizashi

A shorter companion sword to the katana, carried as a backup close-combat weapon by Japanese swordsmen, including Wokou raiders active along the East Asian coast. Its shorter length made it useful in the confined spaces of a ship or narrow alley during a raid. It was typically worn paired with the katana.

Quick Facts

Weapon TypeBladed
Era Used14th-16th century
Range / UseMelee
Notable UsersWokou (Japanese pirates)

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