Shobu-zukuri:  loosely translated means "iris leaf-construction". Unique in its appearance,

the kissaki is long and sweeping, and without yokote. The tip is a little more delicate

than the hira-zukuri shape, but will penetrate unarmored flesh with ease.

Hira-zukuri:  this is the definitive tanto, or wakizashi shape. All business, with a short kissaki, no yokote

and no shinogi ridge line, making this design one of the sharpest cutters available. Even modern

competition cutting blades mimic the geometry.

Osoraku-zukuri:  Shocking in appearance, the kissaki has a yokote that is half the length of the

blade or more! It has a needle like tip for ultimate penetration through leather and flesh.

Kanmuri-otoshi-zukuri:  A double edge on a upward sweeping blade makes this very unique. The

shinogi gives way to a diamond shaped cross section near the tip, this is very effective for

penetration, and a quick back slash.

Kissaki-moroha-zukuri:  With an acute point, and double edge, this animal stands alone. The

shinogi supports the blade for a strong cutting stroke, while the double edged symmetrical tip

allows for great penetration.

Ken tanto:  The Japanese dagger. A fully symmetrical double edge runs the entire length of the

blade. This is the rarest design of all, usually reserved for rituals, or as temple blades for worship.

Yari:  An armor piercing, razor sharp spear point with a very long tang. Usually mounted on a 1-2

meter shaft, the long tang supports the shaft making it a very durable weapon. Some yari are

mounted like a tanto. The shape of the blade is called Hira-sankaku-zukuri.