Weapon

Sword

   Info: Made famous by the Samurai of Japan the sword is one of the deadlist weapons available to the martial artist. In today's world, however, the sword is used primarily for sport, as in Kendo, for ceremonial purposes, or as to often the case, for decorative perposes.

   Parts: Though the Japanese sword has numerous parts, with complex names for all of them, we will familiarize ourselves with the parts common to almost all swords. The blade of the sword will vary greatly, as with knives, and may be straight or curved; single or double sided. The thickness of the blade will also vary by the type of sword. The handle (often called the hilt or tang) of most swords will be long enough for the wielder to place both hands on to allow greater manipulation of the blade. Many swords will also have a guard above the handle to protect the hands from an opponents blade.

   Concepts: Though varied in their uses swords share many of the techniques used with other bladed weapons. The main techniques used with a sword will rely largely on what type of sword is being used. The Japanese Katana shares many of the concepts, attack angles and blocks found in Kali. The main focus when studying with the Japanese sword should be on the discipline towards the sword. The sword, above all others, is a weapon of finality.

Cursory List of Techniques

Opening Ceremony with Sword
Basic Concepts
Basic Attacks
Waza