Sword Forum Bugei

I have been looking at Iaido swords lately, as I am planning on buying one in the next few months, and I want to learn as much as possible so I can make an educated decision. I have looked at offerings from as many companies as I can find, and the options I find out there, both in quality and price, are staggering at times. The two different types of blades that I find most often are steel blades and various alloys, the most common of the latter I've come across being a combination of zinc/aluminum. What are the pros and cons between these different metals? By that I mean as far as care and maintenance are concerned, but anything you think it would be advantageous for me to know would be very helpful.

I would recommend the zinc/aluminum alloy blade. They are time tested and easy to maintain. They can also be brought into Japan, unlike their steel bladed counterparts. A good alloy iaito can be found for quite reasonable prices (for the JSA community that is). The reviews I've seen of the steel bladed iaito are mixed at best. I personally own an alloy blade and it has been a very solid sword for the 5 years I've had it.

Will this sword see a lot of use? What kind of use? What does your instructor think?

I am currently searching for a dojo near my home, so as it stands right now I have so sensei. I suppose that makes me a ronin.

That being the case, I would suggest holding off on the purchase of an iaito until you have a dojo to train at. Instead, get a good bokken. A good bokken is something everyone who practices Japanese Swordsmanship should own. It will also serve you well for many years if treated well.

The reason I say this is that different styles have different views on proper length of the blade and handle, sori, mountings, etc. They also may have a dojo discount. For example, my iaito is very good for Mugai Ryu. In Mugai Ryu we tend to use shorter blades, so a length of 28" works really well. It is a little short for Toyama Ryu, but not too bad. It would be way too short by Shin Shin Sekiguchi Ryu standards. Someone my size often has a 33-36" blade. I think you see where this is going.

Also, while the edge is blunted, it can still cut. The kissaki is also often very sharp. There is a thread stickied to the top of SFI where an individual wasn't paying attention during noto and drove his iaito through his arm. Major damage done.

Unless you plan on just looking at it, I would wait to get one until you have proper instruction. Your enthusiasm is appreciated, but can lead you down the dangerous path of "self instruction." I always keep this quotation in my head as it's one of my favorites: "Always learn from the skillful. He who teaches himself hath a fool for a master." -Ben Franklin. The short version of my rant on this topic is this: self instruction teaches your muscles bad habits that are much harder to unlearn, then it is to learn it right the first time. I'd recommend using the money you've saved to attend a seminar or two, or maybe a tai kai. There is a big one coming up over Labor Day in California. I highly recommend going if you can.

Thanks for the advice!

No Problem. FWIW, tai kai are also great for meeting people who can help you find a dojo. Often, they'll draw in people from all over the country. A great way to network. Also, many of them know about places to train, even if those people aren't there themselves.

BTW, I may be able to help you in your search. If you want to post where you are, or PM your location, I'd be happy to help in whatever way I can.

AdamSyntet, what part of the country do you live? I'm in Santa Monica, CA. I am also with out a teacher.

Victor