A sword has many different parts each with their own names. At one time there were artisans all across Japan who would specialize in making just one part of the sword. The katana refers to the blade itself even though it requires more to make it a functional sword. The katana was considered to be the soul of the Samurai.
According to Toki (2021) earlier swords of Japan more resembled the straight blades one might see in ancient China. It was around 700 CE (Heian period) that one would see swords resembling the katana. Typically it was Samurai that would use the Katana and would wear what is known as the daisho the Katana (long sword) and Wakizashi (short-sword) or possibly tanto (dagger). The samurai used katanas most commonly from about (1185-1600) and contining through the era of the Shogunate ending about 1868 [Edo Period 1603-1868] (Retrieved from the Toki Website on 3/21/2024).
Today at sword shows such as the Japanese Sword Show in South San Francisco you can find some of these artistic pieces crafted by masters of making that specific piece.
Dov Nadel Sensei would go with his students semi-annually to this event. This can be a wonderful opportunity to interact with weapons experts and experience the rich culture.
For more information please click the following link for the Japanese Sword Show.
School of Sword and Staff 