Wakizashi are considered a samurai's side arm and supplemental weapon. It is effective weapon when fighting in confined spaces as typical Japanese dwellings had low ceiling. Samurai warriors often sleep with their wakizashi and carry them even when inside castles, residences unlike the katana that they sometimes had to leave to a servant. The use of the wakizashi though was not limited to the samurai as merchants, craftsmen and other individuals sometimes carry it for protection. 

The blade is made of 1095 high carbon steel, it can be used on heavy targets without compromising its edge. It's unokubi zukuri, the thickness on the back becomes thinner from the half of the blade towards the tip, but the back turns to thick near the kissaki. The tsuka is made of hardwood, wrapped with red genuine same and black synthetic silk ito. The fittings are optional.