I once saw a video talking about how the katana isn't the right sword to compare with a longsword. Longsword was a battlefield weapon; katana was more of a decorative sidearm. Kind of like an officer's sabre. Another weapon, called a "tachi" if I recall correctly, was more common in an earlier era when Samurai spent far more time on actual battlefields. It was a longer and heavier blade.

[–] Maestro@kbin.social 1 points 1 year ago

True, but swords (including longswords) are largely a backup weapon or ceremonial too. A sword doesn't do much against maille or plate armour.

[–] CookieJarObserver@sh.itjust.works 1 points 1 year ago

Yes but even the officer sabers are good weapons by themselves.

Also real longswords where really expensive most soldiers have also fought with spears because they are much easier to handle.