ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Iaitō

Okay, kiddo, so have you ever heard of a samurai sword called a katana? It's a very popular type of sword in Japan. Well, sometimes people want to practice using a katana sword without actually hurting anyone because they're not trained yet. That's when they use something called an iaitō.

An iaitō is a practice sword that looks like a real katana, but it's not sharp at all. It's made with a blunt metal blade so it can't cut anything. The handle is usually made of wood or another lightweight material so it's easy to hold and swing around.

People who are training to become samurai, or just like practicing with swords, can use an iaitō to get better at using a katana. They can learn how to swing it properly, how to draw it from its sheath, and how to use it in different situations.

Even though iaitō swords aren't sharp, it's still important to be careful when using them. You should always handle them with respect and follow proper safety rules. With practice, you may one day be able to use a real katana, just like a real samurai!
Related topics others have asked about: