Nodachi vs. Katana — What's the Difference?

A large long Japanese sword, having a long handle suitable for multiple two handed grip positions.

A katana (刀 or かたな) is a Japanese sword characterized by a curved, single-edged blade with a circular or squared guard and long grip to accommodate two hands. Developed later than the tachi, it was used by samurai in feudal Japan and worn with the blade facing upward.

A pre-katana style large long sword.

A long, single-edge sword for use with two hands, traditionally worn by samurai.

A type of Japanese longsword or tr=nihontō, having a single edge and slight curvature, historically used by samurai and ninja.