lightsabers and their relatives

At one time a popular melee weapon amongst elite forces throughout the galaxy due to tales of the Jedi’s prowess with them in battle

Yes, they can deflect blaster bolts if the user has sufficient reflexes.

Plasma blades are a similar technology utilized by The Mandalorians.

-Unlike a lightsaber, they generate significant heat

-they also draw much, much more power than a lightsaber, requiring the user to be in powered armour

-Often used by Assault Troopers during boarding operations

-The blades have a much more wild, jagged appearance

-members of the infamous combat unit known as The Knights of Ren was particularly renowned for their use of the plasma blade