[SauronOfMordor]

Ping on the katana sharpness and slicing blows. All Japanese cutting tools are designed for pulling/slicing, a Shinto concept of drawing life/death/life toward oneself.

Actually, the way my sensei taught me, the slicing blow is delivered so as to push the opponent away from you.

[petro45acp]

" Actually, the way my sensei taught me, the slicing blow is delivered so as to push the opponent away from you."

Good point, a well executed cut with the last 10 inches or so of the blade is most efficiend, delevers the most force, and would push the opponent away. Another technique, when passing an opponent's line, is to plant the tip-edge and push. Not a stab really, but a long slicing movement that when complete brings the tip back in preparation for conventional slicing blow from the opposite side.

Thanks,