How to Calculate Katana Handle Length

A Katana is a specific type of sword with Japanese origins. The handle of a Katana is the part opposite the blade. If you want to calculate the length of your Katana handle you can do so with a regular tape measure. This measurement can help determine how you need to hold the Katana as well as influence your decision to purchase a new blade or make repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Lay your Katana on a flat surface, such as the floor or a table. Both the blade and the handle of a Katana are curved, but the measurements of both parts of the sword are taken in straight lines. The only way to measure accurately is if the sword is laying on a flat surface.

2. Place a tape measure along the bottom portion of the Katana handle. The end of the tape measure should be touching the bottom portion of the handle.

3. Stretch your tape measure in a straight line across the handle to the point where the handle meets the blade. This portion of the Katana is called the "tang." The tape measure should not be touching the handle for the duration of this distance. Read the measurement (in inches) off the tape measure. This is the length of your Katana handle.

References

• Earthlink: Japanese Sword Measurement
• Little-Raven: Frequently Asked Questions