Though samurais may be largely associated with 12th-century Japanese nobility, swords, and some sick-looking armor, their reign lasted nearly a millennia, one culminating in the late 19th century. But right before they were about to put down their weapons, several photographers picked up cameras, capturing a few last snaps of these legendary warriors during their last days.  

From sword portraits to sick action shots, here are 22 photos of Japanese Samurai.