The main differences between a wakizashi and a tanto lie in their size, blade length, and historical usage within the context of Japanese swords:

Wakizashi:

• The wakizashi is a traditional Japanese sword with a blade length typically measuring between one shaku and two shaku (approximately 30 cm to 60 cm or 11.8 inches to 23.6 inches).
• Wakizashis have a slightly curved blade profile, similar to that of a katana but shorter in length.
• Historically, the wakizashi served as the companion sword to the katana and was worn together as part of the samurai's daisho.
• The wakizashi had various uses, including as a backup weapon, as a symbol of the samurai's social status, and as a blade for indoor combat or in situations where the longer katana was impractical.
• Wakizashis were also used for ceremonial purposes, personal defense, and as status symbols.

Tanto:

• The tanto is a Japanese dagger or short sword with a blade length typically measuring less than one shaku (approximately 30 cm or 11.8 inches).
• Tantos have a relatively straight blade profile and a pointed tip.
• Traditionally, tantos were used as a self-defense weapon, often carried by samurai and non-samurai alike for personal protection in close-quarters combat.
• Tantos were also employed as tools for everyday tasks, such as cutting, slicing, and utility purposes.
• Due to its compact size, the tanto was particularly effective in confined spaces, where larger swords would be less practical.

In summary, the key differences between a wakizashi and a tanto are their size, blade length, and historical usage. Wakizashis are slightly longer, curved swords that served as companion swords to the katana and had multiple uses, including backup weapons and symbols of social status. Tantos, on the other hand, are shorter, straight-bladed daggers primarily used for personal defense and utility purposes.