In the realm of weaponry, there’s a lighthearted adage: “A sword is not an axe.” While this may seem self-evident, it underscores the distinct purpose and design of a battle-ready sword. If your goal is to clear brush or chop wood, an axe is the appropriate tool. A sword, however, is meticulously crafted for a

For aficionados of the exquisite and intricately crafted “nihonto,” or Japanese swords, a captivating new film is now available. Titled “Japanese Swords: The World of Swords,” this 60-minute documentary is currently being screened at Tokyo’s TOHO Cinemas Nihonbashi Theater and Osaka’s Toho Cinemas Umeda Theater. The film is set to expand its reach with upcoming

In the late 19th century, a farmer in what is now Toyama Prefecture unearthed an unusual stone while digging for potatoes. Initially used as a tsukemono ishi, a large stone for pickling vegetables, this intriguing mineral was later identified as the Shirahagi Meteorite by geologists from the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce in 1895. Enomoto

The arming sword, often synonymous with the image of medieval chivalry, stands as a prominent symbol of the knightly era. While other swords like the katana or scimitar have their own allure, the arming sword is deeply rooted in the traditions of honor and valor, making it an ideal subject for delving into the anatomy

In the era of Japan’s samurai, warriors were never without their swords, always prepared to defend their honor. Although today’s world is far less dangerous, there are still times when a hint of samurai spirit is useful, such as when tackling a stubborn thread or a difficult snack package. Introducing the mini samurai sword scissors,

The Japanese sword, an emblem of the samurai era, stands as a testament to the intricate artistry and strategic prowess of its time. These swords, revered for their craftsmanship, have become enduring symbols of Japan’s rich cultural legacy. The creation of a Samurai sword is a meticulous process that harmonizes aesthetic beauty with functional excellence.

For any Star Wars enthusiast, Anakin Skywalker’s lightsaber holds a special place in the saga’s lore. This weapon not only played a crucial role in Anakin’s journey but also became a symbol of legacy throughout the series. Imagine owning a replica of this legendary lightsaber! In this article, we delve into the history of Anakin’s

Martial arts films have enchanted viewers for decades, particularly through their exhilarating and expertly crafted sword fights. In this article, we delve into five unforgettable sword duels that have made a significant mark on the cinematic landscape. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) – The Duel of Li Mu Bai and Jen Yu Celebrated for its

In a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, an exhibition has emerged that unites the legendary “Evangelion” anime series with the ancient craft of Japanese sword-making. This innovative collaboration has birthed 30 unique swords, each intricately designed to reflect the essence of the anime, crafted by skilled contemporary artisans. Japanese swords have historically been celebrated

The unexpected return of a stolen sword from the statue of General William Shepard has sparked a renewed enthusiasm for preserving the rich history of Westfield. This resurgence is evident in the recent influx of historical donations to the local Historical Commission. Cindy Gaylord, who chairs the Historical Commission, noted a significant increase in offers

The Ottoman Empire, a dominant power from 1299 to 1923, stretched across Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. At its height, the empire’s reach extended from the Balkans to the Arabian Peninsula and from North Africa to the Caucasus. Within this vast territory, the Ottomans developed a rich martial tradition, with swords playing a

Japanese swords, with their rich history and exquisite craftsmanship, continue to captivate both enthusiasts and newcomers. Currently, two prominent Tokyo museums are offering exhibitions that provide a deep dive into the world of these iconic weapons. Each exhibition presents a distinct perspective, making them must-see destinations for anyone interested in the art and history of

In the heart of Southeast Asia, a fascinating array of bladed weapons reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity, martial traditions, and natural environments. From the renowned Malaysian kris to the versatile Thai machetes, these weapons have historically played crucial roles in both warfare and daily life. Today, many of these traditional blades have been transformed

Renowned writer Garth Ennis has teamed up once again with artist Jacen Burrows to launch an exciting new fantasy series titled “Babs,” published by AHOY Comics. Following their successful collaboration on the horror-themed “Crossed,” this new venture takes a whimsical turn, introducing readers to Babs, a fierce barbarian thief, and her troublesome enchanted sword, Barry,

In the bustling town of New Hampton, New York, the air is filled with the rhythmic sound of metalwork as John Lundemo forges swords that seem to step out of ancient tales. At 60 years old, Lundemo has carved out a unique niche in the specialized market of high-end blades, drawing from both historical and

Iaido, a revered Japanese martial art, centers on mastering combat techniques with a bokken (wooden sword) or iaito (blunt training sword). This discipline emphasizes the execution of precise and effective movements, focusing on the art of drawing the sword from the saya (scabbard) and returning it with fluidity. Practitioners aim to perfect their skills using

Valyrian Steel, renowned for its unparalleled strength and mystical properties, is a rare metal originating from the ancient city of Valyria. This extraordinary metal has been crafted into legendary weapons throughout Westeros, known for their ability to vanquish White Walkers. The Valyrian Steel Catspaw Dagger, for instance, played a pivotal role in the defeat of

The military flail, often romanticized in medieval-themed narratives, raises intriguing questions about its actual historical existence. This weapon, typically depicted as a short handle linked to a chain with a heavy ball, is a common feature in films and literature. However, the reality of the flail’s use in combat is highly contested, with many historians

The arming sword, often synonymous with the knightly sword, stands as a timeless emblem of medieval warfare. While some may initially envision a katana or scimitar, the arming sword is deeply rooted in the ideals of chivalry and valor, making it a fitting subject for an exploration into the anatomy of swords. With a design

An early medieval sword thought to have Viking origins, dated from the 9th or 10th century, has become a most interesting addition to the Army Museum in Białystok, Poland. The extraordinary artifact was found more than two years ago by museum employee Szczepan Skibicki, when he was diving in the Supraśl River. Skibicki found the