Katanas are katanas. 'Sword' is contractual here, as it has very different method of use. No parrying, different kind of combat use (not cutting through armor - cutting it's bindings to remove protection). I used both, and decided not to play with the katana, even if it was just a normal metal replica. Its fast, tough to handle, and works only with quick, short movements, unlike the sword (which depends more on your own strength and it's application, and can easily hurt someone through armor).
I know that's just me grumbling, but they're as different as it can be. Just look at swords and sabers. Even they're totally different kinds or weapons, they have more in common than with a katana. Hell, a katana could cut through a chainmail if you used a long, flat, pulling move. But it would be useless after one or two strikes - too much strain on the material, totally dulled.
That's also why in all those samurai movies everything ends in one attack. Or two-three at the least. One strike at an unarmored opponent kills or cripples him.
P.S. I have some meelee training, and knowledge. But by no means am i an expert. I just use logic, and can off course be wrong, when it comes to 'official' scientific terms.
