What katanas can be used for?

Question

I was wondering which katanas can be used for sparring or combat against other blades or katanas.

Answer 1

WOODEN ONES!!!  Even the experts only do the live stuff once or twice in their lives, as I always say at my dojo 'I have work on Monday!'

Answer 2

Use the bamboo or wooden ones for all practice.  Never unsheath a real katana unless you are putting it on display or planning to defend yourself.  Honestly, if it comes down to a sword fight...shoot your opponent.  A sword fight sounds too much like a knife fight to me...and in a knife fight everyone gets hurt.

Answer 3

Katanas, live blades, are used only in kata practice.

You use a wooden bokken or a bamboo shinai for sparring, self-defense, or Kendo competition.