A history of more than 1000 years characterizes the Japanese sword. It served as weapon as well as symbol of power and authority. It is reported about the classification, the origin and the development of Japanese swords. Different designs of the blades are described. The special beauty of the swords is mentioned. The traditional manufacture of Japanese swords is presented, where details of the choice of material, the forging technique, the heat treatment, and the surface handling are described. The most important property of a sword is the quality of the blade stressed as an optimum combination of hardness and toughness.
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