http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_swordsmithing
The Japanese Katana is made up of a number of different parts. The main ones are the following:
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Habaki: (Blade collar): Small square metal collar around the base of the blade. - Hamon: (Edge pattern): Waveform marks found on the edge of the blade resulting from the fire for tempering and cooling during the coating process of clay.
- Hi: (Groove): Lengthwise depression of the blade, used to lighten the piece and avoid the stress of concentrated shock that can break or bend the blade of the sword.
- Mune: (Back): Back edge of the blade of the sword. This is the part of the blade is not sharp.
- Kashira: (Pommel): Pommel or knob found on the bottom of the handle.
- Kissaki: (Point): Rounded tip of the sword. This is the most difficult part to polish.
- Mei: Signature of the dealer, usually on the Nakago (shaft).
Mekugis: Bamboo pins that function as screws keeping the spike, "nakago" in place under the handle (tsuka). These pins must be durable, but flexible enough not to break the sword when it is struck. - Menuki: small ornaments or sculptures (usually of animals) on the side of the handle. Traditionally used to indicate the nature of the sword holder.
- Mune: (Back): The back edge opposite the cutting edge.
- Nagasa: Whole blade of the Katana (length).
- Nakago: (Shaft): Shaft of the sword that goes into the handle.
- Sageo: (Hanging cord): Strap which attaches the scabbard to the belt.
- Samé: (Ray skin): Tsuka (handle) backing. It used to be made of shark or ray skin to prevent slippage of Tsuka-Ito.
- Saya: (Scabbard): Sheath that protects the blade from damage and protects every person who comes close to the blade. They are usually made of wood.
- Tsuba: (Guard): Hand guard. It's a work of art in itself made by the clans and dynasties responsible for 'tsuba'.
- Tsuka: (Handle): Handle or grip that is wrapped with a cloth or string: the tsukaito.
- Yokote: line between the tip of the rest of the blade
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