Weapon Type	Cost	Approximate Weight in Pounds	Size S or M	Size L	Notes	Length	Space Required	Speed Factor	0	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	10
Katana ()	10 ch'ien  (includes scabbard)	6	1-10	1-12	-	c. 3'	3'	4	-5	-4	-3	-2	-1	0	0	0	+1	+2	+3

    The katana is a single-edged slightly curved sword ending in a chisel point.
It evolved gradually from the normal sword and is noted for its
superior construction & design. It is perhaps one of the finest types of
swords made. Great care is taken in making the katana and the forging
and construction of it is considered a rare and valuable art. The weaponsmith
must labor long hours to achieve the correct temper of the blade.
When correctly made, the blade is light, well-balanced, and combines
great strength with flexibilty and resilience. The quality of the metal & forging
allows the blade to be ground to a razor-sharp edge. In addition,
such blades are often beautifully decoreated with etched designs,
prayers or family lineages. Equal attentioin is also given to the hilt, guard, and
scabbard of the weapon. Katanas often have individual names, reflecting
deeds of glory in which it has been used.

    For the samurai character, the katana is more than just a sword, it is part
of his honor and the honor of his family. It is his personal weapon, not to
be used by others. To touch the scabbard of the sheathed katana is to insult the samurai.
To draw the blade without permission is an insult. A single katana may have been in the same
family for generations, becoming a treasured heirloom. To lose such a weapon is a shameful
disgrace that can only be swept clean by the recovery of the weapon and the punishment
of those who have taken it. Many samurai have given their lives to recover the family's weapon.

    The value of a katana can vary greatly, depending on the quality of workmanship and the history of
the weapon. The price listed on the equipment list is for an average weapon.
Others may be of greater or lesser price, depending on the quality and artistic workmanship of the weapon.