Nagamaki 長巻 : The perfect combination of sword and spear

El Nagamaki (長巻) is a traditional Japanese weapon combining the characteristics of a sword and a spear, used by samurai and elite warriors during the feudal era. Its unique design, with a curved blade and a long handle, offered a notable tactical advantage on the battlefield. This weapon, which reached its peak between the 14th and 15th centuries, stood out not only for its functionality, but also for its aesthetics and symbolism within Japanese martial arts.

The nagamaki was particularly popular during the Muromachi period (1336-1573) due to its versatility in combat. Although its use was largely replaced by other weapons such as spears (half) or short swords, their legacy lives on in traditional martial arts schools and in historical studies of samurai culture.

The term nagamaki literally means “long coiled handle.” This name refers to the weapon’s distinctive design, where the handle is wrapped in leather or rope to provide a firm grip. Unlike katanas or nodachi, the nagamaki was wielded with both hands, and their combined length gave it the functionality of a spear to keep distance from the opponent.

The nagamaki was primarily used in open combat and duels against mounted enemies. Experienced warriors would use it to dismember enemy horses, knock down horsemen, or engage heavily armored soldiers. Its design made it perfect for executing wide, powerful cuts, which set it apart from other samurai weapons.

Nagamaki is made up of several carefully crafted parts that combine functionality and aesthetic design:

1. Ha (刃): The curved, sharp blade is designed for deep, precise cuts.
2. Nakago (茎): The hidden part of the blade that extends into the handle to give it stability.
3. Tsuka (柄): The handle, which is usually the same length as the blade, providing perfect balance.
4. Tsuba (鍔): The guard, a metal piece that protects the user's hands.
5. Saya (鞘): The case where the nagamaki is stored when not in use, made of lacquered wood.
6. Sageo (下緒): Rope that secures the sheath to the warrior's belt.
7. Kashira (頭): The end of the handle, which helps counteract the weight of the blade for balanced handling.

The nagamaki's design combines durability with precision, making this weapon a highly effective tool in combat.

• Total length: Between 1.2 and 1.5 meters.
• Blade length: Between 60 and 90 cm, similar to a standard katana.
• Handle length: Equal to or slightly longer than the blade.
• Weight: Generally heavier than a katana, making it ideal for powerful cuts.

The nagamaki, although less used today compared to more traditional weapons such as the katana or the yari, continues to be studied and practiced within various schools (ryuha) traditional and modern Japanese martial arts. These schools have developed specific techniques that take full advantage of the versatility and power of nagamaki. Below are the main schools that include it in their repertoires, with additional details on their approach and practices.

1. Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū

Founded in the 15th century, this school is one of the oldest and most respected in Japan. Its focus is on traditional martial arts as a whole, encompassing multiple weapons, including the nagamaki.

• Specific techniques: Nagamaki is used with wide, circular movements, adapted for both individual combat and battle formation.
• Martial Philosophy: Emphasizes strategy (heiho) and situational awareness in combat. Practitioners must understand how to adapt the use of nagamaki to different contexts, whether facing multiple enemies or riders.
• Current training: This school teaches the nagamaki as part of its extensive repertoire, along with weapons such as the katana, yari and naginata.

2. Yagyū Shinkage-ryū

Known for its focus on defense and fluid swordsmanship, this school also includes techniques adapted to nagamaki.

• Characteristics of the school: Founded by Yagyū Muneyoshi in the 16th century, it seeks balance between defense and attack.
• Adaptation to Nagamaki: The movements with this weapon in this school focus on energy economy and strategic movements to neutralize the enemy quickly.
• Specialized training: The school adapts principles of the long sword (nodachi) to the handling of the nagamaki, teaching how to use its length to keep distance from the enemy and control the battlefield.

3. Kashima Shinto-ryu

This school focuses on the spiritual connection and harmony between the practitioner and the weapon.

• Core Philosophy: Kashima Shintō-ryū teaches that the weapon is an extension of the body and spirit. Practitioners must develop a symbiotic relationship with the nagamaki in order to use it effectively.
• Nagamaki Techniques: Techniques include wide, powerful cuts that aim to destabilize the enemy. Low sweeps are also taught, ideal for taking down enemies in tight formations.
• Historical connection: This school has a strong spiritual tradition and a deep connection to the Kashima shrines, where the sword is revered as a symbol of divine protection.

4. Hyoho Niten Ichi-ryu

Founded by the legendary Miyamoto Musashi, this school is famous for its two-sword combat style (Nine-Chinese-Ryu), but also incorporates nagamaki into its arsenal.

• Combat Principles: This school applies Musashi's concepts, such as dual handling and utilizing the length of the weapon to maximize its strategic advantage.
• Specific Techniques: Practitioners learn to use the nagamaki in combat against multiple opponents, adapting the principles of both long and short swords to the weapon's hybrid design.
• Musashi's Legacy: The nagamaki reflects Musashi's focus on adaptability and efficiency in combat, being an ideal weapon to practice his philosophy of heiho (strategy).

5. Ono-ha Itto-ryū

School that emphasizes direct and forceful attacks, adapted to the handling of nagamaki.

• Distinctive style: The itto-ryu It is known for its focus on strength and precision, characteristics ideal for the use of nagamaki.
• Training Methods: Moves include fast, powerful downward slashes as well as side sweeps to take on multiple enemies.
• Strategic Approach: Practitioners learn to use nagamaki as a tool to control the pace of combat, keeping opponents at a distance while looking for opportunities for decisive attacks.

6. Shinkendo

A modern discipline that seeks to integrate several traditional weapons, including the nagamaki, into its repertoire.

• Comprehensive training: The Shinkendo It teaches the handling of the nagamaki along with other weapons such as the katana and naginata, adapting to modern practitioners.
• Technical Focus: Techniques emphasize precision and fluidity in movements, taking advantage of the length of the nagamaki for wide, sweeping cuts.
• Contemporary usage: Although it has no direct roots in feudal Japan, the Shinkendo adopts traditional principles to preserve the functionality of nagamaki in a modern martial context.

7. Katori Shinto Ryu (contemporary branches)

Several modern branches of this school include nagamaki as part of their study.

• Adapted version: Modern techniques focus on applying traditional combat principles in a safe training environment.
• Sweeps and Blocks: Teaches how to use the long handle of the nagamaki to block attacks and counter enemy movements.

Importance of training in these schools

Nagamaki remains an important part of the legacy of Japanese martial arts thanks to these schools. Practitioners not only learn the physical techniques, but also the values ​​and philosophies associated with the use of this weapon. The preservation of nagamaki in these schools ensures that its rich history and tactical effectiveness remain alive for future generations.

Using nagamaki required a perfect balance between strength and precision. Some of the key techniques include:

• Wide, circular cuts: To take on multiple enemies or disarm opponents.
• Downward Strikes: Used to attack from an elevated position or from horseback.
• Horizontal Sweeps: Ideal for taking down enemies in tight formations.
• Precise stabs: Inspired by spears, to penetrate defenses.

Handling the nagamaki required complete control of the weapon, as its weight and length could be a challenge even for experienced warriors.

The nagamaki was not only a tool of war, but also a symbol of Japanese military ingenuity. Its hybrid design reflects the ability of blacksmiths and strategists to adapt to the needs of the battlefield. Although its use declined over time, it continues to be studied and admired as an artifact of great historical and cultural value.

Today, the nagamaki is a centerpiece in samurai weapon displays, traditional martial arts practices, and historical reenactments. It represents Japan's warrior spirit and its constant pursuit of perfection in weapon design.