Sakabato

The Sakabato (逆刃刀 sakabatō; lit. reverse-edged sword) is unique type of Japanese sword. While normal Japanaese swords (Katanas) have the shorter side of the blade sharpened, the sakabatou is sharpened on the opposite side. This is why it is know as a reverse-bladed sword. It is non-lethal until turned over. However, this style of blade is less suited to battou-jutsu than a normal katana, which Kenshin compensates for by using the sheath for a second blow.