Naginata Samurai Set – 3D Printable STL Miniatures for Tabletop Wargames

Unleash the disciplined might of the samurai on your tabletop with the Naginata Samurai Set. This collection features five exquisitely detailed miniatures in dynamic, combat-ready poses, capturing the formidable presence of warriors who have mastered the elegant and deadly naginata polearm. Scaled for 28mm and 32mm wargaming, these figures are perfect for representing elite infantry, dedicated bodyguards, or heroic characters in your historical or fantasy armies. The set includes a separate sashimono (back banner) to allow for customization, letting you proudly display the mon of your chosen clan.

These STL files are optimized for 3D printing, with intricate details that shine when produced on a resin printer. The textures of the lamellar armor, the fabric of their clothing, and the sharp edges of their blades are all rendered with precision to make painting a rewarding experience. While designed with resin printing in mind, dedicated hobbyists can achieve good results with a well-tuned FDM printer.

The Naginata in History:
The naginata is one of Japan’s most iconic polearms, a weapon that blends the reach of a spear with the cutting power of a sword. Its history is deeply entwined with that of the samurai class. First appearing sometime before the 11th century, it evolved from earlier Chinese polearms and became a primary weapon on the battlefields of feudal Japan. Its long shaft provided excellent leverage and reach, making it incredibly effective against both infantry and cavalry. A skilled wielder could use the curved blade to slash, the shaft to block and strike, and the butt end (ishizuki) to jab, making it a versatile tool of war.

During the Genpei War (1180–1185), the naginata was a favored weapon of the sōhei, or warrior monks, who were renowned for their martial prowess. Samurai also adopted it widely, valuing its ability to dismount cavalry and control space in chaotic melee. However, as battlefield tactics shifted during the Sengoku period (‘Warring States,’ 1467-1615), the simpler, straight-bladed yari (spear) grew in prominence for its effectiveness in tight spear formations. While the naginata saw less use by male samurai in large-scale battles, it gained a new and lasting identity as the signature weapon of the onna-bugeisha, female warriors of the samurai class. For these women, the naginata was a primary tool for the defense of their homes and castles, and they trained with it extensively. Its legacy endures not just as a weapon of war, but as a symbol of the samurai ethos and a respected martial art practiced to this day.