What Are Supreme Grade Swords?
In the vast world of One Piece, weaponry is as diverse as the pirates who sail the seas. Among all bladed weapons, the Meito (famed blades) represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship. These legendary tools are divided into four distinct tiers based on their quality, history, and power. The absolute highest tier is the Saijo O Wazamono, or Supreme Grade Swords. There are only 12 Supreme Grade Swords in existence, making them the rarest and best swords ever forged. These weapons are renowned for their incredible durability and sharpness, capable of withstanding the most intense battles and even imbuing the destructive power of a user's Haki without breaking. For any swordsman, wielding one of these blades is a testament to their status as one of the world's elite warriors.
Yoru (Mihawk)
The most iconic of all Supreme Grade Swords One Piece has introduced is Yoru, the personal weapon of Dracule Mihawk, the "World's Strongest Swordsman." Yoru is a massive, black-bladed sword shaped like a crucifix, measuring over two meters in length. It is one of the few confirmed "Black Blades" (Kokuto) in the series, meaning its blade has been permanently turned black through countless battles and the constant infusion of Armament Haki. Yoru is famous for its immense destructive capability; Mihawk has used it to cleave through giant ice mountains and entire fleets of galleons with a single, casual swing. Its existence at the top of the Saijo O Wazamono rankings cements its reputation as the most powerful individual sword currently active in the story.
Murakumogiri (Whitebeard)
While most of the Supreme Grade items are traditional swords, Murakumogiri is a unique entry. Wielded by Edward Newgate, better known as Whitebeard, this weapon is a naginata—a Japanese polearm. Despite not being a standard sword, it is officially ranked among the 12 Saijo O Wazamono. Murakumogiri was Whitebeard's constant companion for over thirty years, surviving clashes with the Pirate King himself. The weapon was often used in conjunction with Whitebeard's Gura Gura no Mi (Quake-Quake Fruit) powers, allowing him to focus shockwaves through the blade. After Whitebeard’s death at Marineford, the weapon was placed at his grave, remaining pristine and spotless even after decades of high-level combat.
Ace (Roger)
The legendary Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, also possessed one of the world's best swords. His weapon of choice was a cutlass named Ace. Unlike many of the Wano-inspired katanas seen in the series, Ace follows a classic pirate aesthetic. Roger utilized this Supreme Grade blade to conquer the Grand Line, relying on his mastery of Haki rather than Devil Fruit abilities. The sword's power was most famously demonstrated during his clash with Whitebeard, where the two legends split the very sky. Interestingly, Roger named his son, Portgas D. Ace, after this beloved weapon, highlighting the deep bond between a master pirate and his blade.
Shodai Kitetsu
The Shodai Kitetsu is the highest-ranked of the three Kitetsu cursed blades. While its siblings, the Nidai Kitetsu and Sandai Kitetsu, are ranked in lower tiers, the Shodai is a confirmed Supreme Grade sword. It was crafted by the legendary Kitetsu and carries a powerful curse that is said to bring a violent death to its wielder. For a long time, its location was a mystery to fans. However, it has been widely identified as the weapon carried by Saint Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro of the Five Elders. Recent events have shown the terrifying efficiency of this blade, as Nusjuro used its cursed, icy powers to freeze and cut through massive structures with ease.
Unknown Swords
While five of the 12 Supreme Grade Swords have been officially identified or strongly implied, seven remain a mystery. Fans have long speculated about which other weapons could fill these slots. Popular candidates for the remaining Saijo O Wazamono include:
- Gryphon: The saber wielded by Red-Haired Shanks, which has blocked magma attacks and clashed with Whitebeard.
- Raiu: The nodachi used by Shiryu of the Rain, known for its bloodthirsty nature.
- Yakuza Kasen: The shikomizue (cane sword) used by Admiral Fujitora to channel gravitational forces.
- Rayleigh's Sword: The unnamed blade used by the "Dark King" during his prime.
FAQ
How many Supreme Grade Swords are there?
There are exactly 12 Supreme Grade Swords (Saijo O Wazamono) in the One Piece universe, though not all have been revealed yet.
Is Zoro's Enma a Supreme Grade sword?
No, Enma is currently ranked as an O Wazamono (Great Grade Sword). However, it is stated that if Zoro manages to turn it into a permanent Black Blade, its rank will increase to Supreme Grade.
What is the difference between a Meito and a Supreme Grade sword?
"Meito" is a general term for any named, famous blade. Supreme Grade is the specific ranking for the top 12 most elite Meito in existence.
