Roronoa Zoro, a member of the Straw Hat Pirates with Luffy, is known for his exceptional swordsmanship and unique three-sword style, “Santoryu.” This article explores Zoro’s katanas, their significance, and the different swords he has wielded throughout the One Piece series.
The Santoryu Combat Style
Santoryu, or “three-sword style,” is a combat technique developed by Zoro himself. He wields one katana in each hand and a third in his mouth. This unorthodox method allows him to execute fast and powerful attacks, often in the form of cross cuts or spiral attacks. Zoro has repeatedly demonstrated his mastery of this technique throughout the One Piece series.
Zoro’s Katanas
Wado Ichimonji
The Wado Ichimonji is Zoro’s first katana, which he inherited from his childhood friend and rival, Kuina, after her death. The Wado Ichimonji is a high-quality katana considered a national treasure. Zoro typically holds this katana in his mouth when fighting using the Santoryu style.
Characteristics
- Smith: Shimotsuki Kozaburo
- Ranking: Great Grade Swords
- First Appearance: Episode 2, Chapter 5
- Description: White blade, golden oval tsuba, white saya
Sandai Kitetsu
The Sandai Kitetsu is a cursed katana that Zoro acquired in a weapons shop in Loguetown. Despite the curse on the sword, Zoro chose to use it and successfully tamed its cursed nature. The Sandai Kitetsu is a well-balanced and sharp sword, ideal for fast combat.
Characteristics
- Smith: Sukiyaki
- Ranking: Grade Swords
- First Appearance: Episode 49, Chapter 97
- Description: Blue flame-shaped hamon, golden cross-shaped tsuba, reddish-brown tsuka
Enma
The Enma is a legendary sword that once belonged to Kozuki Oden, a samurai lord. Zoro received Enma after returning Shusui to the Land of Wano. This sword is extremely powerful, capable of draining the user’s Haki (spiritual energy) and channeling it to increase the power of its attacks.
Characteristics
- Smith: Shimotsuki Kozaburo
- Ranking: Great Grade Swords
- First Appearance: Episode 955, Chapter 954
- Description: Lilac blade with flame-shaped hamon, clover-shaped tsuba, lilac-lacquered tsuka and saya with golden patterns
Zoro’s Former Swords
Shusui
The Shusui is a legendary katana that once belonged to Ryuma, a famous samurai from the Land of Wano. Zoro obtained this sword after defeating Ryuma on Thriller Bark Island. Shusui is a “black blade” due to its black and sharp blade.
Characteristics
- Ranking: Great Quality Swords
- First Appearance: Episode 342, Chapter 448
- Description: Black blade with reverse wave hamon, octofoil tsuba, black tsuka
Yubashiri
The Yubashiri is a superior quality sword given to Zoro for free by Ipponmatsu when he purchased the Sandai Kitetsu. Unfortunately, Yubashiri was destroyed by Shimotsuki Ryuma.
Characteristics
- Ranking: Superior Quality Swords
- First Appearance: Episode 49, Chapter 97
- Description: Long blade with cross-shaped tsuba, black tsuka and saya
The Importance of Katanas to Zoro
Katanas hold great significance for Zoro, not only as weapons but also as symbols of his commitment to his dream of becoming the world’s greatest swordsman. Each katana he has owned and used over the years reflects a stage in his journey and a part of his personal history.
Zoro’s Katanas in Popular Culture
The popularity of One Piece and Zoro in particular has led to a fascination with the character’s katanas. Many fans buy replicas of these swords to complete their collections or use them at conventions and cosplays. Replicas of Zoro’s katanas are often crafted with great attention to detail, faithfully reproducing the unique characteristics of each sword.
In Summary
Roronoa Zoro’s katanas are key elements of the One Piece universe and the character himself. Each katana holds special meaning for Zoro and helps him progress towards his ultimate goal of becoming the greatest swordsman in the world. Through his mastery of the Santoryu combat style and the use of his iconic katanas, Zoro has become one of the most beloved and recognizable characters in the series. Whether through sword replicas or lively fan discussions, Zoro’s katanas continue to inspire and fascinate One Piece enthusiasts around the world.
