What is a Chisa Katana?

The Chisa Katana (小さ刀), also known as the “short Katana,” is a specialized sword that occupies a space between the Wakizashi (short sword) and the full-length Katana (long sword).

With a blade length typically shorter than the standard Katana, the Chisa Katana offers a unique balance of reach and maneuverability, making it highly effective in specific combat scenarios where speed and agility are needed without sacrificing the cutting power of a long blade.

Blade Characteristics of the Chisa Katana

The most defining feature of the Chisa Katana is its shorter blade, which typically ranges between the length of a Wakizashi and a standard length Katana sword.

While it maintains the traditional curvature and single-edged design of a Katana, its compact size makes it more maneuverable and easier to wield in close-quarters combat.

• Blade Length: The Chisa Katana generally has a blade length between 55 and 70 centimeters (21 to 27 inches). This is shorter than the standard Katana, which ranges from 60 to 80 centimeters (24 to 31 inches).
• Overall Length: Including the handle (tsuka), the overall length of a Chisa Katana can range between 70 and 85 centimeters (27 to 33 inches).
• Weight: The Chisa Katana is relatively lightweight compared to a full-length Katana, weighing approximately 0.8 to 1.2 kilograms (1.7 to 2.6 pounds), making it easier to handle and faster to draw.

The shorter blade allows for faster draws and strikes, making it a favored weapon in certain martial arts disciplines that focus on speed and precision, such as Iaido and Kenjutsu.

Despite its smaller size, the Chisa Katana retains the cutting power and durability of a full-sized Katana, making it a highly versatile weapon.

China Katana Historical Origins

The Chisa Katana likely evolved during the later feudal periods of Japan, when combat was moving away from large-scale battlefield engagements toward more personal and close-quarter duels.

Samurai, who were traditionally equipped with both a Katana and a Wakizashi (forming the daisho, or “big-little” sword set), found a need for a sword that was longer than a Wakizashi but shorter than a Katana—hence, the development of the Chisa Katana.

In the Edo period (1603–1868), samurai were often required to navigate urban environments where large, sweeping motions with a long sword were impractical. The Chisa Katana offered a middle ground, providing the reach of a longer sword while maintaining the compact size needed for confined spaces.

Some samurai and martial artists preferred the Chisa Katana over the Wakizashi sword for its balance between speed and reach. This allowed warriors to draw and strike quickly, particularly in one-on-one duels or surprise attacks.

Chisa Katana Combat Style

The Chisa Katana excels in situations where agility and speed are essential, without the need for the long reach of a full-length Katana. It is particularly well-suited for indoor combat, urban environments, or close-quarters fighting where movement may be restricted.

Speed and Maneuverability

The shorter blade makes the Chisa Katana quicker to draw and allows for more rapid strikes. Its lightweight nature reduces fatigue during extended combat, making it easier to handle over longer periods.

One-Handed or Two-Handed Use

Although it is shorter than a standard Katana, the Chisa Katana can be wielded with one hand or two, depending on the situation. This makes it a versatile weapon, as the user can switch between quick one-handed strikes or more powerful two-handed cuts.

Iaido and Kenjutsu Training

The Chisa Katana is popular in martial arts disciplines like Iaido and Kenjutsu, where drawing techniques (iai) and precision cutting are paramount. Its shorter blade allows for smoother, faster draws, especially in scenarios where immediate action is required.

Close-Quarters Combat

Due to its compact size, the Chisa Katana is ideal for close combat scenarios where larger weapons might be cumbersome. It provides a combination of slashing and thrusting capabilities, with the user able to switch between techniques seamlessly.

Construction and Blade Geometry

Like other Japanese swords, the Chisa Katana is constructed using traditional forging methods that emphasize strength, flexibility, and sharpness. The blade is typically differentially hardened, with a hard cutting edge and a softer spine, allowing the sword to absorb impact while maintaining a razor-sharp edge.

Blade Geometry

The Chisa Katana usually features a shinogi-zukuri blade geometry, which is the most common form used for Katana and emphasizes a sharp ridge line (shinogi) that adds strength and durability to the blade.

Curvature (Sori)

The curvature (Sori) of the Chisa Katana is similar to that of a full-length Katana, providing the same advantages in cutting power. The gentle curve allows the blade to follow through on slashes, making cuts smoother and more effective.

Handle (Tsuka)

The handle of the Chisa Katana is typically proportionate to the blade, shorter than that of a standard Katana, but long enough to accommodate both hands. The handle is often wrapped in rayskin (samegawa) and then tightly bound with ito (handle wrapping) to provide a secure and comfortable grip.