Yes, samurai warriors in feudal Japan commonly used both the tanto and the wakizashi as secondary weapons alongside their primary sword, the katana.
The tanto is a dagger or short sword with a single or double-edged blade, typically measuring around 15-30 centimeters (6-12 inches) in length. It was primarily used for close combat, stabbing, and slashing in tight quarters. The tanto was considered a versatile weapon for self-defense, as well as for more practical tasks such as cutting ropes or opening packages.
The wakizashi, on the other hand, is a traditional Japanese sword with a curved blade, similar in design to the katana but shorter in length, typically ranging from 30 to 60 centimeters (12-24 inches). The wakizashi served as a secondary sword and was worn alongside the katana by samurai. It was mainly used for indoor combat, as a backup weapon, or for situations that required a shorter blade.
The combination of the katana and wakizashi was known as the daisho, which translates to "big-little." The daisho was a symbol of a samurai's social status and served as a means of identification. It was also practical, as the samurai could use the longer katana for outdoor combat and the shorter wakizashi for indoor settings or when a more compact weapon was advantageous.
The use of the tanto and wakizashi by samurai varied depending on the context, individual preferences, and specific martial arts schools. However, having proficiency in multiple weapons allowed samurai to adapt to different combat scenarios and maintain an edge in battle.
It's important to note that during peaceful periods or times of strict social control, there were restrictions on the public carrying of weapons, including tanto and wakizashi, to maintain order and prevent conflicts.