The kodachi, literally translating to "small and short tachi (sword)," is one of the swords traditionally made and used by the samurai class in Feudal Japan. It serves as an intermediate between the wakizashi and the katana. The kodachi is primarily used for defense as its smaller size (59 cm) allows for faster movements compared to larger swords, although it may not deliver strong attacks.
The kodachi has a slightly larger blade curvature than the wakizashi and is slightly lighter. Its size is closer to that of the wakizashi than the katana. It is often mistaken for the wakizashi.
Currently, there are practitioners who use a pair of kodachi to incorporate techniques from other martial arts styles such as karate, judo, and most commonly kenpo. Historical records suggest that ancient ninjas combined these techniques with ninjutsu. Ninjas also used the kodachi for self-punishment.