What makes a blade a tanto?

What makes a blade a tanto?

What Is a Tanto Knife? Tanto knives are easier to spot than nearly any other blade type. They’re characterized by an angular, almost noncontinuous edge made up of two cutting planes instead of the flat or curving belly of most pocket knives.

What is a tanto knife blade good for?

Tanto blades are great for stabbing things. That reinforced tip is tough to beat as far as durable penetrating power is concerned. If you use your knife to stab things primarily, then the tanto could be a great choice.

How thick should a tanto blade be?

8.0 mm thick
The general blade shape is approximately 25 cm long, 17 mm wide (near the tang), 8.0 mm thick (near the tang) and approximately straight.

Are tanto blades better?

Pros of a tanto blade: Crazy strong blade, with a stronger point. Excels at stabbing through hard materials. Very similar in shape to a chisel point. Relatively easy to sharpen, even in the field.

What did samurai use tanto for?

Throughout history, the uses of the Japanese Tanto in battle varied. Generally, it was a combat weapon that specialized in piercing and stabbing. This short sword was one of the preferred weapons of the Samurai for close-range combat.

What does tanto mean in Japanese?

tanto. Parts of speech adverb (fukushi) (poss. Kansai dialect) many; much; a great amount. Parts of speech Meaning excessive amount.

What is a reverse tanto blade?

The reverse tanto sharply angles down to the blade, instead of up to the spine. Most knives in this style have more of a belly than the American tanto, so they have more use as an everyday carry.

Who invented tanto blade?

The invention of the Tanto The tanto was invented sometime during Japan’s Heian period (794 to 1185). During this time, samurai warriors discovered the need for a smaller “companion” sword. Prior to the tanto’s invention, samurai warriors carried a single, larger sword, such as the katana.

What is the tanto made out of?

Rather than using standard steel, for example, they used tamahagane steel. Because of its higher carbon content, tamahagane steel offered greater strength and durability, allowing for a better all-around tanto. Like many traditional Japanese swords, the tanto began to fade from use.

What was a tanto used for?

The tanto is essentially a dagger-like sword that was used primarily for stabbing — but also for slashing — attacks throughout feudal Japan. It’s been designed in several variations, some of which include a straight edge, whereas others include a double edge.