Dai Katana (Chapter)

HistoryDai katana were the first real attempt to make light red weaponry a normal part of Verdite's war machine. They were the first real exposure to the benefits warranted by 'dodge and strike' techniques. For a short time, powerful Verditians utilizing these weapons were considered some of the most dangerous fielded. However, as the meta adapted to these new practices, the low range of the dai katana proved to be a major downfall to it's general field application.
As such, dai katanas found their combat role filled by the increasingly popular kokatana.
In modern day, dai katana are used by Verditians seeking to challenge themselves or to have a manageable red weapon as a backup. It is rare to see them utilized as a primary weapon.
Because of game-standards on minimal weight requirements, dai katana have no alternative variants as they would be too light for game-rules (24 ounces).
Interestingly, dai katana require some of the most involved building processes to ensure they are at least 24 ounces.
Weapon Properties
Consult the following image for a quick property chart. 
The categories are explained as followed:
* Speed - The weapons ability to accelerate and combo.
* Range - The effective combat range of the weapon.
* Weight - The overall weight of the weapon.
* Difficulty - The learning curve of the weapon in terms of how much work will be required to be considered proficient.
* Value - The combat usefulness in a war situation.
Variants
Because of limitations enacted through standard game rules, there are no dai katana variants. It is possible to make slightly longer versions however.
Modern Usage
==== In War ====
The most common war practice concerning dai katanas is to use it as a sidearm/backup. It's often a favorite for archers as a manageable back-up red, although the kokatana is slowly replacing even this field application.
Warriors who use only a dai katana as a primary field weapon are often limited to flanking and support roles. The dai katana alone is heavily reliant on free-flowing combat engagements to be able to get into effective range. Unlike the katana and the sengatana, the dai katana can break shields and bypass low-tier armor if pressed into a situation where it can rapidly strike.
In many ways the biggest strength of the dai katana is the surprise to your enemies that you have a red weapon at your disposal.
However, notable users such as Lactoes have often shown that with overwhelming proficiency you can actually make the weapon have similar effectiveness as more specialized light reds. It should be noted that this level of skill is not normal.
==== In Dueling ====
Against other equipment, the dai katana has some drawbacks. with a short effective range it only boasts the advantage of being able to deliver red-damage.
Effective technique in dueling is attempting to use the stability and maneuverability of the weapon to outplay and out-speed your opponent. However, other light-reds have been designed to handle these situations with greater proficiency and are often recommended instead.
==== In Training ====
However, as dueling weapon the dai katana is one of the most effective training weapons. It shares the same principles that make the katana a great tool for improvement. All combat lessons can be reinforced through dai katana proficiency and forcing yourself to adapt to and overcome weapon advantages will promote stronger fighting techniques and easily fast-track your rank progress.
Notable Users
Hrazlinne
Derath
Lactoes
Gallery
20170616_185100.jpg|Shinko, a Kelm-Class Dai Katana
Dai Katana Kokatana.jpg|Dai Katana and Kokatana lengths