Yes, samurai did use the tanto, which is a type of Japanese short sword or dagger. The tanto was a standard part of a samurai's armament, alongside the longer katana and the shorter wakizashi. The combination of these three swords, known as the "daisho," symbolized the social status and identity of a samurai.

The tanto typically had a straight or slightly curved blade and a relatively short length, typically measuring between 15 to 30 centimeters (6 to 12 inches). The tanto served various purposes for a samurai:

1. Self-defense: The tanto was primarily used as a personal self-defense weapon. It served as a backup weapon when the samurai's primary sword, such as the katana or wakizashi, was unavailable or impractical to use. The tanto allowed for quick and precise strikes in close-quarters combat.
2. Utility tasks: The tanto had practical uses beyond combat. Samurai would use it for tasks such as cutting food, preparing camp, or performing daily activities that required a sharp blade. Its compact size and versatility made it suitable for a range of utility tasks.
3. Symbolic and ritual purposes: The tanto held symbolic significance within the samurai culture. It represented the samurai's readiness for self-defense and their commitment to the code of bushido. Tanto were sometimes used in specific rituals and ceremonies, including acts such as ritual suicide (seppuku) or as offerings during religious ceremonies.

While the tanto was not as prominent as the katana or wakizashi, it played an important role in a samurai's armament and daily life. It provided a versatile and effective close-quarters weapon and held cultural and symbolic significance within the samurai tradition.