Samurai Sword Parts and Their Definitions

What Are The Parts of a Samurai Sword?

I've noticed that there are a ton of different names and variations for the parts of a samurai sword. Two things I can tell you for sure; it depends on the time period in which it was made, and the method used to make the sword.

This is my best explanation of the parts of a Samurai Sword. If you would like to add anything, please do.

1) Kissaki (Point) - This is the fan shaped cutting tip.

2) Yokote (Point Line) - Line differentiating the kissaki from the rest of the blade.

3) Yakiba (Hard Section) - Tempered edge of the blade.

4) Hamon (Temper Line) - Pattern along the cutting edge produced during the hardening process.

5) Ji (Softer Section) - Area between the ha and shinogi.

6) Shinogi (Ridge Line) - Ridge along the side of the blade between the edge and the mune.

7) Shinogi-ji (Flat Section) - Flat surface between the shinogi line and the mune.

8) Mune (Back) - Back edge of the blade.

9) Nagasa (Blade Length) - Measured from the notch at the back of the blade marking the top of the tang to the tip of the kissaki.

10) Nakago (Tang) - The tang is the part of the blade inserted into the handle. Full Tang means this runs through the entire length of the handle.

11) Mei (Signature) - Makers mark; usually an inscription in the tang.

12) Habaki (Ferrule) - Metal collar around the blade just below the guard.

13) Tsuba (Guard) - Guard just above the handle meant to protect the hands.

14) Seppa (Spacers) - Spacers placed both above and below the tsuba.

15) Fuchi (Sleeve) - Metal sleeve and the end of the hilt.

16) Mekugi (Peg) - Peg used to secure the blade in the handle.

17) Menuki (Ornament) - Decorative metal fitting that is placed under the hilt wrappings.

18) Tsuka (Handle) - Where you grip the sword.

19) Kashira (Pommel) - End of the hilt.

20) Kojiri (End Cap) - Metal cap at the end of the scabbard.

21) Saya (Scabbard) - Houses the sword.

22) Sageo (Cord) - Cord used when carrying sword.

23) Kurikata (Knob) - Used in conjunction with sageo for carrying.

24 Koiguchi (Scabbard Mouth) - Opening at the end of the scabbard where the sword is inserted.

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