What were the swords of the samurai made from and what advantages did it have over European and Arabic swords?

Samurai sWords, primarily the katana, were traditionally made from high-carbon steel, which was forged using a unique folding technique that created a strong, flexible blade with a sharp edge. This process produced a harder cutting edge while maintaining a softer spine, allowing for resilience during combat. Compared to many European and Arabic sWords, which were often heavier and less curved, the katana's design allowed for quicker, more precise strikes and greater maneuverability. Its ability to be drawn and cut in a single motion, known as "nukitsuke," provided samurai with a tactical advantage in battle.