Iaito & Shinken Tsuba

About Iaito & Shinken Tsuba

The Tsuba (鍔) has the function to protect the hand from the opponent's blade but also from having one's hand sliding onto the blade during Tsuki (thrust).
It though has two more qualities: aesthetic and balance adjustment. During the Edo period, the Tsuba turned progressively into a decorative ornament, often generously worked, giving every sword a personal and special touch.

The Tsuba can present one or two holes on the sides that were used to draw the Kogatana (small knife) or Kogai (hair spike) that were fitted inside the sides of the Saya. The Tsuba used to be made by entire dynasties of craftsmen who only specialized in that particular field, almost vanished in the present time.

A heavy Tsuba will tend to shift the balance downwards the handle, making the Iaito easier to handle whereas a light Tsuba will push the balance towards the Kissaki, the tip of the blade. The latter one is recommended if you decide to focus on cutting training. You will find below some photos of all our Tsuba but also details on size, material, and weight.

All models are, of course, entirely handmade in Japan.