Warning! This article contains spoilers for Ahsoka episodes 1 and 2.
Summary
Ahsoka wields two lightsabers, with one being shorter, setting her apart from other Jedi and lightsaber users. This shorter lightsaber, known as a shoto blade, offers enhanced control and additional support during dual-wielding battles.
Ahsoka's aggressive fighting style, learned from Anakin, has made her the sole wielder of a shoto blade among the Jedi. This rare attribute has contributed greatly to her success in lightsaber duels.
In the series, Ahsoka employs two lightsabers, one of which is shorter than the other. Initially, she began her Jedi training under Anakin Skywalker's guidance during the Clone Wars using only a single lightsaber, contrasting with her current dual-wielding style. Alongside the evolution of her lightsabers, the color of her kyber crystal has also changed. It initially emitted a green hue, then shifted to blue, before ultimately settling on the distinct white color seen in Star Wars Rebels and Ahsoka. These exceptional qualities and modifications to Ahsoka's lightsabers have solidified their iconic status over time, further complemented by another notable detail.
Ahsoka wields two lightsaber blades, with one being shorter than the other. This is unusual as most Jedi and lightsaber wielders have blades of equal length. Ahsoka is not the first to use the dual-lightsaber fighting style of Jar'Kai, as characters like Asajj Ventress and Darth Sidious also utilize this technique. However, their lightsabers are typically the same size as each other and have elongated blades. Ahsoka stands out as one of the few Jar'Kai fighters who wields a shorter lightsaber blade. As with everything concerning Ahsoka, there is a specific purpose behind this choice.
Ahsoka's Second Blade Is A Shoto Blade
Why We've Never Seen A Shoto Blade Before
The smaller sized blade, known as the shoto blade, made its first appearance in Star Wars: Attack of the Clones. Yoda exclusively used this type of lightsaber due to his small stature. A shoto blade serves as a dagger-like weapon, providing dual-wielders like Ahsoka with enhanced control over their weapons and offering additional reinforcement for both defensive and offensive maneuvers. Ahsoka incorporated her shoto blade into her arsenal even before her encounter with Anakin and Obi-Wan Kenobi on Mortis.
During the Clone Wars, Ahsoka underwent Jedi training that differed from the typical Padawan experience by emphasizing combat and aggression. Her master, Anakin, aimed to ensure her survival and protection in the war, resulting in a unique and aggressive fighting style. This distinctive method included Ahsoka's utilization of a shoto blade, a weapon seldom seen among other Jedi. This strategic approach consistently provided Ahsoka with an edge in lightsaber duels, as evidenced by her repeated successes.
The shoto blade has become an iconic element of Ahsoka's fighting style and appearance. It has greatly contributed to her success in duels against formidable opponents like Nightsister Morgan Elsbeth and Inquisitors in Star Wars Rebels. The distinctive blade remains just as effective in live-action as it was in the animated series. Now that Ahsoka is revealed as Sabine Wren's master, she may one day pass on this tradition to her Padawan.
Catch the new episodes of Ahsoka on Disney+ every Tuesday at 6pm PT / 9pm ET.
