A samurai traditionally carried a pair of swords known as the daisho, which translates to "big-small" or "long-short" in Japanese. The daisho consists of two swords:

1. Katana: The katana is the longer sword of the daisho pair. It has a curved, single-edged blade, typically measuring around 60 to 80 centimeters (24 to 31 inches) in length. The katana served as the primary weapon of the samurai and was used for cutting, slashing, and thrusting techniques.
2. Wakizashi: The wakizashi is the shorter sword of the daisho. It also has a curved, single-edged blade, but it is smaller in size compared to the katana. The wakizashi typically measures around 30 to 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) in blade length. It served as the samurai's backup weapon, often used in close-quarters combat, indoor settings, or as a symbol of social status.

The daisho had both practical and symbolic significance for the samurai. It represented their status as warriors, their readiness for different combat situations, and adherence to the code of bushido (the way of the warrior). Wearing the daisho was regulated by etiquette and indicated the samurai's rank and social standing.

It's important to note that the daisho was primarily associated with the samurai class in feudal Japan. Other individuals, such as certain high-ranking officials or those granted special privileges, may have also been allowed to wear the daisho, but it was not a common practice among the general population.