Sorato-Ryu Kenjutsu Heiho

Bokken, jo, wakizashi & tanto

All wooden weapons are hand-made and are of the highest quality. After extensive research and high impact use, we have found that maple is the most durable and beautiful wood for our dojo buki. The bokken tsuka (handles) are longer than those found in most martial arts stores, similar to the tsuka found on samurai swords used in the warring period - rather than the shorter tsuka that were fashionable in the peaceful Edo-period. Leather tsuba can be made to order. The jo-staff are eight-sided, again designed for traditional combat use (the sharp edges were more effective in battle). Bokken & jo are each R450, wakizashi are R300 and tanto R150. Leather tsuba subject to availability.

Note how the maple ages to a deep golden colour. The wood improves with age as opposed to oak which becomes more brittle with age. The paler weapons are new and you can compare the two bokken at the bottom of the picture below. The golden one with the leather tsuba is my personal bokken and has been in continual heavy use for about 7 years. Initially you should apply raw linseed oil to help to cure the wood against sweat & damp. Also a light sanding from time to time with 1500 grit water paper will seal the wood and impart a silky feel & shine.