When a Japanese sword arrives from Tozando, it comes in one of two states: in a koshirae — the complete mounting with lacquered scabbard, wrapped handle, and guard — or in a shirasaya — a simple, unfinished wooden scabbard and...

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This is the third in our popular series! We will continue introducing Japanese idioms that related to the sword. Seppa tsumaru (The seppa is stuck) Seppa is a long elliptical thin metal piece on both sides of the swordguard. One is...

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Different types have different lengths and weights Length and Shape If you are thinking of collecting Japanese swords, you should know that there are different lengths and weights for different types of Japanese swords! By understanding this, you will be...

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What is Fuchi-gashira? Fuchi-gashira is a decorative metal fitting attached to the handle of a Japanese sword. It is a general term for two metal fittings: the Tsukagashira (commonly known as "kashira") attached to the end of the handle, and...

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