Contrary to the clear language of the Second Amendment, countless areas around the United States bar you from using a firearm. While it may not be an outright ban, the fifty layers of legal gibberish surrounding a gun accomplish the same thing. If you are in one of these areas behind enemy lines, you still need self defense options. Things like pepper spray and tasers are good choices, but today, we are going back a thousand years for our weapon. Today, we will look at using a short sword for home defense.

For Over 1000 Years, People Have Been Using a Short Sword for Home Defense

The Japanese samurai were masters of the sword. While many know the long sword they carried, many don’t know about the wakizashi. The wakizashi is a traditional Japanese short sword that played a significant role in samurai culture. Typically ranging from 11 to 23 inches in length, the wakizashi was often paired with the longer katana in a daishō set, symbolizing a samurai’s honor and social status. While the katana was used for open combat, the wakizashi served as a companion blade, useful in close quarters, indoors, or as a backup weapon.    

The wakizashi was a fast and razor-sharp sword perfect for indoor use. Today, companies like Black Side Customs make modern versions of the wakizashi. Before we roll on any further, however, a note is in order. A well-made short sword is a lethal weapon. It should only be used in a life-threatening situation. Like any weapon, you should seek professional training to master it.

Enhanced Cutting Power and Range

The benefit a short sword has over classic knives is its reach and cutting power. While you may slash someone’s arm with a fixed blade, a wakizashi can cut the arm off. It also gives us a little more distance from the attacker.

In order to cut with a short sword, you need to focus on the last four to five inches of the blade. This portion of the sword will have the maximum velocity and cut the deepest. We also want to cut using our entire body. As you cut, sink into your hips and maintain good posture. You want to come to the “bottom” of your sinking in sync with the blade.

Lastly, we want the blade to follow a single track. Don’t let the edge twist during the cut. Imagine you are slicing the blade between two narrow boards with little space between them. Fit the blade in that area in your mind.  As we cut, make sure you keep your center. Don’t let your head lean forward, and keep your balance.

Using a Short Sword for Home Defense

As with all self-defense scenarios, it is important to do what you must, but only what you must do. Once the attacker stops fighting you, leave the area immediately. The last thing I have to bring up is laws once again. Some communist strongholds in the US limit even the length of the blade you can have. It is your responsibility to know and follow your local laws.

The short sword has been used for over a thousand years as a close-protection weapon. Its small size and razor edge have saved countless lives. While not as glamorous as a $5000 handgun, it is a very effective weapon in trained hands.