What are the differences between the naginata, the nodachi, and the nagamaki?
Naginata - polearm with a blade fashioned similar in shape and curve to a katana's blade. Can be used either as a polearm or on combination with riding horseback to make it easier to knock other riders off, or to have more reach against footsoldiers.
Nodachi - a sword with a large blade, assumed to be used on horseback for further reach (similar to above - however, the nodachi was less used and very likely filled in a more symbolic/ceremonial role).
Nagamaki - a sword with a larger hilt than blade (often both are similar in length), not often used - very likely to be used against mounted soldiers, as it has a reach comparable to polearms/spears.
None of the three weapons (excepting the naginata, but again for only a short period of time) were in widespread use throughout Japanese history - more common were the bow and spear.