chiten

Chiten refers to a type of Japanese sword, specifically a short sword, that was commonly used during the Sengoku period and the Edo period. While often translated as "short sword," chiten is more accurately described as a sword with a blade length typically between 30 and 60 centimeters. It falls into the category of shorter swords, distinct from the longer katana.

Historically, chiten were practical weapons, often carried as a secondary or backup sword. Their size made them more manageable in close-quarters combat or in situations where a longer sword might be cumbersome. They were also favored by certain social classes and professions. For instance, samurai might carry a chiten as part of their attire or as a ceremonial weapon. Merchants and commoners, who were not permitted to carry swords openly, might possess a chiten for self-defense in a less conspicuous manner.

The construction of a chiten generally followed the same principles as other Japanese swords, involving folded steel and a differential hardening process. However, due to their smaller size, the forging techniques might have had slight variations. The hilt and guard (tsuba) also varied widely in design and material, reflecting the owner's status and personal taste. While not as prominent as the katana in popular culture or historical accounts of major battles, the chiten played a significant role in the daily lives and martial practices of people in feudal Japan.