Wado Ichimonji
The Wado Ichimonji is the most significant blade in Roronoa Zoro's collection, serving as a cornerstone of his identity. It is a Meito belonging to the 21 Great Grade Swords (O Wazamono). Originally forged by Shimotsuki Kozaburo, it was the prized possession of Zoro's childhood rival and friend, Kuina. After her tragic passing, Zoro requested the sword from her father to fulfill their shared promise of becoming the world's greatest swordsman. Throughout the entire Zoro sword list One Piece, the Wado Ichimonji is the only blade that has remained with him since the beginning of his journey, usually held in his mouth when performing his signature Three-Sword Style.
Sandai Kitetsu
Zoro acquired the Sandai Kitetsu in Loguetown. This Grade sword is a "Cursed Blade" (Yōtō) forged by Tenguyama Hitetsu. Despite the shopkeeper's warnings about the bloody deaths of its previous owners, Zoro tested his luck against the sword's curse by throwing it into the air and letting it fall over his arm. The blade spared him, signifying its acceptance of him as its master. As a member of the Kitetsu series, it is known for its sharpness and bloodthirsty nature, often making it difficult to control for lesser swordsmen. Among Zoro swords, the Sandai Kitetsu represents his willingness to gamble with fate to gain power.
Yubashiri
Also obtained in Loguetown, Yubashiri was a gift from the shopkeeper Ipponmatsu, who was so moved by Zoro's skill and courage that he gave him his family heirloom for free. It was a Skillful Grade sword (Ryo Wazamono) known for being exceptionally light and fast, which greatly enhanced Zoro's speed-based techniques. Unfortunately, its time in the Zoro sword list One Piece came to a tragic end during the Enies Lobby arc. The blade was rusted away by Shu, a Marine captain with the Rust-Rust Fruit. Zoro later laid the remains of Yubashiri to rest at the Rumbar Pirates' grave on Thriller Bark.
Shusui
Shusui was once the blade of the legendary samurai Ryuma, the "Sword God" of Wano Country. Zoro won this O Wazamono grade sword after defeating Ryuma's zombie on Thriller Bark. Shusui is a "Black Blade" (Kokuto), meaning it has been permanently hardened through countless battles and the infusion of Haki. It replaced Yubashiri and became Zoro’s primary powerhouse blade due to its incredible weight and destructive force. However, because it was considered a national treasure of Wano, Zoro eventually agreed to return it to Ryuma's grave in exchange for a new, legendary weapon: Enma.
Enma
Enma Zoro is a pairing that has redefined the swordsman's power ceiling in the New World. One of the 21 Great Grade Swords, Enma was formerly wielded by Kozuki Oden and was the only weapon known to have scarred the "Strongest Creature," Kaido. Enma is unique because it forcefully drains the wielder's Haki, manifesting as a massive discharge of power that is difficult to regulate. During the Wano Arc, Zoro's struggle to master Enma led to his awakening of Advanced Conqueror's Haki. Enma Zoro represents the pinnacle of his current strength, turning him into a warrior capable of damaging Yonko-level opponents.
Sword Grades Explained
The world of One Piece classifies exceptional blades into specific tiers of quality and history:
- Supreme Grade (Saijo O Wazamono): The 12 finest blades ever made, such as Mihawk's Yoru and Whitebeard's Murakumogiri.
- Great Grade (O Wazamono): 21 swords of legendary quality, including Wado Ichimonji, Shusui, and Enma.
- Skillful Grade (Ryo Wazamono): 50 blades of high quality, like the Yubashiri.
- Grade (Wazamono): High-quality sharp swords, including the Sandai Kitetsu.
Cursed Swords
In the lore of Zoro swords, cursed blades or Yōtō are swords that bring misfortune to their owners. The Kitetsu series is the most famous example. These swords are said to have a will of their own and a thirst for blood. While many fear them, Zoro believes that a sword's curse is simply a testament to its quality and that a true master should be able to dominate the blade's spirit rather than be consumed by it.
Zoro's Future Sword
Fans speculate on the final evolution of the Zoro sword list One Piece. Many believe Zoro will eventually turn the Wado Ichimonji into a permanent Black Blade, mirroring Mihawk’s Yoru. There is also the possibility of Zoro obtaining a Supreme Grade sword, perhaps the Shodai Kitetsu, to complete his mastery over cursed blades. As he nears his final confrontation with Dracule Mihawk, his arsenal will undoubtedly represent the highest peak of swordsmanship.
FAQ
Which of Zoro's swords is the strongest?
Currently, Enma is considered the strongest due to its ability to draw out massive amounts of Haki and its history of wounding Kaido.
Does Zoro still have Shusui?
No, Zoro returned Shusui to Wano Country as it is a national treasure. He received Enma as a replacement.
How many swords has Zoro broken?
Zoro has lost several swords, most notably his two nameless katanas during his first fight with Mihawk and Yubashiri at Enies Lobby.
