The tantō's traditional overall length was 11.93 in (1 shaku, about 30 cm). The blade's length was about 5in to 12in (12 1/2 cm to 30 cm). Blades that were bigger (13 to 14 inches) were called ko-wakizashi, meaning "small short sword." The tantōs which varied from the traditional size were called O-tantō or Sunobi tantō.