Monday, June 14, 2010

Iaido Bokken Sword SE-550


Why is an Iaido Bokken necessary? The Iaido Bokken is necessary for several reasons. The first and foremost is that it is the safeste and best way to practice drawing. You get a real sense of how it feels and you learn to perfect your grip, your stance and your movements.

A bonus about this particular Iaido Bokken, the SE-550 is that it also comes with an awesome wooden scabbard that has a magnetic device to simulate the way an actual katana locks in the sayas koiguchi with the habaki. Also, you get the added benefit of actually being able to re-sheath the Iaido Bokken, thus perfecting your re-sheath technique.

It goes without saying that this is the safest way to practice the art of the draw, especially if you are a beginner as you do not want to train with a live blade and have any sort of accident. This is also an economical way to train as this Iaido Bokken ismuch less expensive then a non live Iai Sword. Of course, saying that, after you have gained your confidence in your draw, you can upgrade to a non live blade and then eventually move up to a live blade, where you will have the experience needed from training first.

If you want to start your training now, purchase your Bokken sword and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you. Be sure to also go to our home page and sign up to become a SamuraiSupply.com Member and you will receive monthly coupons, discounts and MUCH MORE!

Ryumon RY3201 Phoenix Katana Sword


A quality sword which came from a high caliber company, RY3201 Ryumon Phoenix Katana is a special katana sword and one of the prime products of years of knowledge in metallurgy.

RY3201 Ryumon Phoenix Katana came from the family of Ryumon swords, which are generally handmade in Longquan, China, the place commonly known as "City of Treasure Sword." Acclaimed for their expertise in sword-making, Longquan is located in a place where the resources are just right for the crafting of these extraordinary samurai swords. This only ensures you that you will be acquiring a battle- ready and fully purposeful sword.

Fully hand-honed, this sword that came from a vast collection of Ryumon swords has a blade made from 1065 carbon steel. It is sharpened and refined by Ryumon Swords’ best craftsmen. The handle of Phoenix Katana is enclosed in a top quality double pegged ray skin.

However, for this particular kind of samurai sword, you will probably be embezzled by its wooden saya or scabbard for the main reason that it is engraved, hand painted in red with a phoenix scene that is worth beholding and admired. Seeing this particular work of art would surely be a treat you would not want to miss.

This sword coming from the well- crafted Ryumon swords’ family has a bo hi and an iron tsuba or hilt, ornamented with a front and back crane with embossed golden details. This fully sharpened katana sword is embellished by a black Japanese cotton tsuka ito and a handle draped with a high quality ray skin, double pegged to provide you extra protection.

These specific samurai swords have an overall length of 41.5 inches, with its blade and handle measuring 28 and 10.5 inches respectively. It weighs about 2.5 pounds. The Phoenix katana also comes with a black entwined sageo or the cord being used to tie the saya to the belt or the obi when worn. You would definitely not have any problems as to where to put or store this katana sword when you procure it because this comes with a sword bag and a Ryumon signature box as a bonus plus a wall scroll certificate of authenticity, maintenance and reference kits. This is just the more reason why you should buy this Ryumon Phoenix Katana. Aside from its beauty, it also comes with a lot of extras, with the fact that you can buy it for a very low price.

If you are interested in having a beautiful Ryumon Sword for your collection, please visit our site at SamuraiSupply.com or contact us for more information. Please be sure to sign up on our home page to become a SamuraiSupply.com Member and receive monthly coupons, discounts and MORE!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Assemble Your Own Sword - SW340BKD

If you are a sword collector, and you want to make your own blade, you would probably be glad to hear that there is now a big chance for you to do just that at a really low price - yes, LOW price.

This newest treat for you involves the much- wanted katana swords. As you know, they now come unassembled to give you a chance to set up them yourself. Just imagine assembling your own training sword! And to make it all easier for you these katana swords will include instructions and complete hardware so you will be guided as to how you will make your own katana.

The SW340BKD Dragon Katana Sword is a sword which you can set up yourself and would be something you would be proud to do. It is a beginner sword and you can take it apart, put it together and really experiment and not have to worry because that is what it was made for.

These assemble yourself katana is prepared from blades made from high carbon steel, which makes it not only good for a show. Putting together this high quality sword would definitely give you delight not to mention that you will be more acquainted in terms of assembling your own sword.

The katana sword’s main feature is its katana blade, which measures 28 inches. This high carbon steel blade has a firm black glossed wood saya or scabbard. Its tsuba or sword guard has a dragon design. It also has two fuchi or hilt collar between the hilt and sword guard. These assemble yourself sword also includes one habaki or wedge-shaped metal choker, which keeps the sword from slipping from the saya or scabbard. There are also two wooden hooks, which will secure and hold the katana sword. A black sword bag also comes with this sword. And for you to successfully make your own blade, the package also contains an instruction booklet.

If you are interested in investing in one of our Assemble Yourself Swords, we have quite a few to choose from. Of course we also offer discounts on our home page for you and for your other friends who might as well be interested in starting a new hobby of collecting swords of a variety of designs.

Although there are many ready- made swords now available in the market for you to choose from, there is also a great advantage of purchasing those which you will assemble yourself. Not only will you be able to learn first- hand the exact way of putting a sword’s part together but the most important is the sense of pride you will feel once you see for yourself the beautiful product of your own hands.

Come and visit SamuraiSupply.com today and pick out a sword so you can make your own sword today or contact us if you need more information as we would be happy to help you find the best sword for you!

Kendo Training

Are you interested in Kendo? It is becoming quite popular these days that's for sure. If you are, then you will need Kendo equipment and here at SamuraiSupply.com we can help with that. Here’s good news for all newbies in Kendo! You can take advantage of the starter kit that includes a sword at a very low price including shipping. If you want to cut down the costs of buying the necessary equipment, you can be happy with this package.

The very first thing that you have to get is the "bogu" or the set of protective armor. Make sure that you pick a bogu that is designed to withstand demanding conditions, especially during training. Safety is another consideration, so get one that is crafted artistically and provides safety to the user. Maximum protection is vital but you need to ensure that the bogu will allow unrestricted movements. Newbies are often confused when it comes to fitting and function of the bogu. Never sacrifice quality to get a cheaper price. There are quality ones out there that are reasonably priced. Shop around and you’ll find the best deals.

Check the stitching of the bogu. Experts say that the quality can be seen from the stitching. Pick a bogu with closer stitching and the trim should be made from a deer leather because this material is not likely to crack. For the ‘Do’ or the torso protector (breastplate), you should get fiberglass because it is lighter and easily adjusts to the impacts received. This is also less expensive as in comparison to bamboo. For your ‘kote’ or the hand and forearm protectors (gauntlets), you should opt for a deer leather because it wears better although it’s a bit expensive.

Of course we also are selling this one unique Bugo set. A machined stitched high quality 4mm/2mm diagonally stitched Bogu comes with a 3+ 1 shinai bag which means that you will have three shinai and a bokken or bokuto inside. This set as well includes a tenugui or a head towel covering and all required himos or strings.

These are some of the things that you will have to look into when shopping for the right equipment. The katana is also a great consideration. For new students, bokken swords are usually advised to avoid accidental cuts. The bokken is a wooden sword and is great for practice and drills. When you have gained more experience, you can now buy a katana or other samurai swords that you may need. Before buying a real samurai sword, make sure that you have already enhanced your strength and skills. It pays to own a quality and beautiful samurai sword.

Investing on quality equipment for Kendo is a wise decision because you will be using them for many months or even years! If you are starting Kendo and are looking for training gear, check us out. If you are looking for something in particular, just contact us and we will get a price for you right away. Buying Kendo equipment has never been easier then now, so visit us today at SamuraiSupply.com!

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Samurai Bokken Sword 1806


Whether you’re training for the use of a classical sword or that of Iaido, you can use the 1806- Samurai Bokken Sword! A samurai bokken is a wooden sword that is usually used during practice training or continuing the samurai sword training course. This type of bokken sword can last for many years, especially if you handle it properly. Cracking can take place when the sword is already old, but you can prevent this by applying oils and wood polish.

Most samurai bokken swords are synonymous with the katana due to its relative weight and size. Using this type will help you master the handling and balancing as of practicing with a real katana. The usual blade length is 30 inches with a total of 40 inches overall. Made from a solid oak hardwood, this bokken comes with a tsuba (sword hand guards) and a rubber stopper. The swords handle is carefully wrap in cords as most real katana blades are.

Make sure that you wrap the sword with a fabric and avoid excessive moisture at all times. At first glance, you will think that the sword is a real samurai sword. In fact, the bokken is balanced and weighted like that of a real sword with blade. Steel swords are not used during practice for safety reasons. It’s easy to cut yourself with a real Samurai sword but by using a training sword like that of the Samurai Bokken, it’s much easier to learn the basic and advanced techniques.

It’s not only the new students who are using samurai bokken. In fact, even masters are using wood swords to protect students and partners when practicing a various kind of techniques. In most stores, customers should be of legal age (18 years and above) to be able to purchase the sword. If you’ve watched the movie "The Last Samurai", then you already know what a real samurai looks like… and this is just what you can expect from a bokken. For under $20, you can already purchase a new sword that you can use during practice sessions.

When buying a samurai bokken, you have to go for only the quality swords in the market. The sword can serve as your companion as a novice swordsman. With the right maintenance and usage, the sword will accompany you as you learn advanced techniques and become a master swordsman while you hone your skills by using a quality Bokken Sword.

The Bokken wood training swords are now available in different colors and designs and you can find a black samurai as well as a red. By shopping online at SamuraiSupply.com, you can find the best Bokken Sword that meets your standards. Check out the different training swords we have to offer and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Tiger Bokken Sword 1802T


Tired of breaking bokkens? Why not choose the Tiger Bokken (1802T) also known as the Ebony Bokken which is made from the best Asian hardwood. Sword practitioners and martial artists are now using tiger bokken swords for their trainings. The tiger Bokken is a wooden sword that comes from hardwood like oak. It serves as a training sword in place of a real sword with sharp blades. The Bokken sword is a must when learning the basic and advanced sword techniques. If you’re looking for a quality bokken, you can try the Tiger Training Bokken.

The usual training blade has been made gorgeous and great looking for you to utilize. This features a wood-burned decoration along the edge and the hilt. This 40 inch long bokken makes you stand out from the rest and can be of great used for Aikido, Iaido, all sort of Kata, Kendo, and Kumdo.

You will be amazed on the aesthetic beauty this bokken has. Though it is crafted without the cords on the handle, the functionality of a traditional bokken has not been compromised. You can use the swords during martial art drills and in sword sparring. You will enjoy the realistic training provided by this bokken. It is safe and economic as most of the bokken swords.

The tiger bokken comes with a removable tsuba and has a firm grip, also made from wood. It is usually made from an exotic Asian Ebony which is crafted with tiger strips of light brown in color. You can find this type of bokken as always as smoothly polished. With a little amount of investment, you can already learn how to use this sword.

The Tiger Bokken looks like and handles like a real sword but the only difference is that it is made from wood. If you are interested to learn how to use a sword, this is a great investment for you. It’s best to have your own Bokken so that you can practice at home. Aside from the uniforms, you will need to invest on a quality Bokken. Use the internet to find a great sword that you will use for many years.

The rarity of this beautifully crafted type of bokken makes it difficult to find. It is perfect for fitness freak and martial arts experts.

Many masters value their Bokken, and you will too, once you’ve mastered many techniques using your wooden Bokken. Choose among the many designs available today and you can try the 1802T- Tiger Training Bokken Sword! Check out our Bokken Swords today at SamuraiSupply.com and if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us so we can get that perfect training sword for you!

Monday, March 29, 2010

New SamuraiSupply.com T-shirts


Just wanted to send out a quick blog to mention our new SamuraiSupply.com t-shirts that we just had designed with our new logo. They are quite sharp and they have the Bushido symbols on the front, with our logo on the front and back.
This is a great addition to any order or just to have for yourself to wear at the dojo or ANYWHERE for that matter! Check out the SamuraiSupply.com t-shirts and perhaps order one today or get one for a friend. If you have any comments or input, please send them to info@samuraisupply.com as we would love to hear what you think of them! Of course, if you are looking for a great samurai sword to go along with it, visit our website at SamuraiSupply.com and don't forget to go to the home page before ordering and sign up for our SamuraiSupply.com Members area as it will give you an immediate discount code that you can use towards your order. How is that for customer service!

Musashi Glorious Dragon Katana Sword SS755


The Glorious Dragon, a mythical creature that appears in dozens of ancient cultures around the world. Whether it’s the large, winged, fire-breathing beast of European lore or the wingless water serpent of Asia, the Dragon has a majestic and commanding presence. It’s no wonder that we frequently see depictions of these creatures in the world of sword collecting, especially among Asian blades such as the Japanese Katana.

Japan’s own history with the Dragon is very interesting and unique. In their native form, the Japanese versions of the serpents were Water Gods, associated quite frequently with the sea. The Japanese Emperors are often said to be descendants of Dragons, perhaps an allusion to Japan’s relationship with China. This is not hard to imagine, since they are often used to represent the ancient Chinese Emperors.

Unfortunately, this powerful symbol finds itself being used for profit rather than tradition far too often. I frequently notice stainless steel display katana and sword sets adorned with dragons galore in malls all over the place. These rat-tail tang blades that aren’t made for anything more than cheap décor sell more popularly than the honest to goodness blades made by traditional smiths and companies devoted to making blades used by martial artists or owned by true collectors worldwide.

This mass production of sacred symbols is nothing new since there are many aspects of world cultures being sold as consumer products with no actual concern for historical accuracy behind them. Well, I can think of several companies that break that cycle, and will continue to do so as long as there exists in some place a market of devoted enthusiasts. Whether for art appreciation, historical enthusiasm and passion, or the practicality of a functional martial arts weapon, collectors can turn to Musashi swords for a blade that is functional, aesthetically appealing, and economical. When Musashi puts a Dragon on one of their products, it is because they have earned that right by being passionate about making real, functional swords in a modern take on traditional Japanese sword-making techniques.

When observing the Glorious Dragon Katana Sword offered by Musashi, I immediately noticed the prominence of gold coloring on a lot of the detailing, evoking the imagery of an Imperial Palace of China or a Shinto temple honoring the kami (gods or spirits, ancient protectors of Japan). This wasn’t simply a functional blade, which Musashi is renowned for making, it is a work of art. Well, a work of art that will still cut like a dream. The blade is hand forged with 1050 carbon steel, and is water tempered bringing the hardness to 55 HRC. To put it in layman’s terms, this is a vast improvement from the stainless steel paper wieght in the mall back home. The blade is beautiful and the hamon, or temper line, is genuine and prominent.

To the collector who is more inclined to have an artistic piece, the saya, or scabbard, steals the show. The creature depicted is unmistakably the water serpent of Asian myth, done in a Chinese style. For those who’d like a quick lesson, the Chinese Dragons are typically shown with four claws on each foot. This is, of course, unless it appears as an Imperial seal or furnishing, in which case there will be five claws. The Japanese, almost without fail, depict the serpents as having three claws per foot. The choice of the Chinese version of the Dragon may be a reflection of the forge which makes Musashi’s blades, located in China. It may also be a reference to the relationship between China and Japan, culminating in the beauty and unchallenged supremacy of Japanese style sword making meeting the ancient legacy of the Chinese take on the water serpent. Since the Japanese language and writing systems are highly influenced by classical China, it is not too much of a stretch to believe that this sword was made as it was intentionally.

The tsuba, or hand guard, on this model is a motif of a Dragon appearing in traditional Chinese fashion. The tsuba and other metal parts on the tsuka (hilt) of the sword are done in copper. Those who are familiar with metals may know that copper has a tendency to react to oxygen resulting in a discoloration called a patina. On a sword like this, this would not be detrimental. A patina effect naturally suggests an old or ancient aura to whatever it may appear on, and the same is true for swords. When observing a copper furnished katana that has had time to oxidize and patina, one might very well be reminded of the history behind that particular blade’s art or style. Nothing could be more fitting than to have such a feature on a sword featuring the regal water serpents of Japan and China. For those who do not want such an effect to take place, sealants are available at very cheap prices which will protect the copper.

Yamamoto Tsunetomo is attributed with the following quote from the text, Hagakure; “It is said that what is called the Spirit of an Age is something to which one cannot return. That this spirit gradually dissipates is due to the world's coming to an end. In the same way, a single year does not have just spring or summer. A single day, too, is the same. For this reason, although one would like to change today's world back to the spirit of one hundred years or more ago, it cannot be done. Thus it is important to make the best out of every generation.” There is no practical need for a katana as a weapon of warfare or self-defense. However, that does not mean that we cannot honor the spirit of nobility and honor of a warrior class who’s influence is now felt worldwide, not confined to Japanese borders anymore than the sun is confined to the horizon of any one country. If you choose to pay tribute to the Samurai and their legacy, choose a blade that has meaning, a blade you can be proud of. Leave the plastic clad stainless steel abominations unsold on the shelves of mall stores where they belong.

A sword should tell a story. Whether through the nicks in the blade resulting from use on backyard targets or tameshigiri mats, remembering when and why you chose a sword, remembering receiving the it as a special gift, or simply knowing the story behind a blade model’s name or the artwork adorning it, a sword should always tell a story. Without stories, there is no legacy. Without a legacy, we are nothing.

If you would like more information on this blade and others, please visit SamuraiSupply.com Sword Articles. You can also check out Musashi Swords and shop for good quality, economically priced pieces to add to your collection at SamuraiSupply.com. If you have any questions or comments, please direct them to info@samuraisupply.com.

Musashi Rose Blossom Katana Sword SS782BL


The vibrant colors of flowers call our attention to them many times without fail. In spring when the snow has melted who among us can behold the beauty of the first blossoms and not smile? Children will pick flowers for their mothers, fathers will put flowers in the hair of their daughters, and young men will often take the risk of gifting a flower to a young woman who has caught their eye and captivated their heart.
It is amazing that so simple a thing could attract such attention. After all, a flower does not try to be beautiful. It simply is by nature of existing. In much the same way, true Samurai were said to be the way they were without effort. While there were many who lived and died as members of the Samurai class, what many might refer to as true Samurai possessed a natural charisma, just like a flower. In fact, flower arranging was a practice learned by many Samurai, particularly after the establishment of the Tokugawa Shogunate when Samurai found themselves living in a time of newfound peace. The Samurai found new devotion to practices of culture and philosophy to help occupy their time and allow them to still be of service and value when their swords did not need to be drawn.
These were the Samurai of virtue, those who remembered that the word Samurai means, “One who serves.” There are many stories of Samurai who abused the power that came with their status without taking their roles seriously, but again, there are those legendary names that will never lose their luster.
Among the world of flowers, the rose is one which, in the western world, is written about quite frequently. It is like a queen among flowers, a symbol used for hundreds of years to represent the very pinnacle of beauty. In Japan, as well, the rose is a beautiful flower used frequently in flower arranging.
Every rose has thorns, this is simply a fact. However, the rose of the Musashi Sword Line is, aptly named, the Musashi Rose Blossom Katana Sword. When looking at the subtle beauty of a traditional style katana without elaborate and intricate ornamentation, a collector is not left wanting. While such lavish ornamentation can be appreciated and applauded, there are some swords that do not fail in their beauty and by nature of existing, they are beautiful.
The Musashi Rose Blossom Katana sword is hand forged and fully functional, perhaps making this rose almost all thorn while still retaining the beauty of a petal. The gold plated copper tsuba artwork, for which most katana models are named, depicts rose blossoms on a vine. The dark blue saya is well lacquered and works well with the copper and brass furnishings to add to the overall subtle aesthetic appeal to this sword.
For more information on the Musashi Rose Blossom Katana sword SS782BL visit or read the SamuraiSupply.com Sword Articles. Musashi Swords are a wonderful addition to anyone’s collection, combining functionality and authentic sword making styles with economical pricing to bring customers a blade they can appreciate without breaking the bank. If you have any questions or comments, please direct them to info@samuraisupply.com.

Musashi Elite Samurai Sword SS700-1


There is no such thing as the mythic Samurai Swordsman who never loses, the swordsman so skilled that no man would dare approach him for fear of losing their head. Such a figure is the work of cinematic deception found in pop culture films from American and Japanese film makers alike.

It is a good thing that I am writing this rather than giving a public speech. I don’t think I could have said all of that with a straight face. There is at least one swordsman whose life and skill have become legend, and who’s name will never be forgotten. Miyamoto Musashi. Arguably, he was the greatest swordsman in Japanese history, perhaps even in the world. He lost one duel in his early life, and vowed never to lose again, a promise he kept. He fought over 60 duels and never lost, though he once came to a tie.

His dueling style was unlike anything that the Samurai of his time had seen before. Being taller than most in his day, Miyamoto likewise required a longer sword than most. He did not fight with this sword alone, however. A Samurai typically carried two swords worn on the waist at any given time, a practice put into law by the Tokugawa Shogunate. The two swords were the long sword, or katana, and the short sword, or wakazashi. Miyamoto fought with both swords, one in each hand, simultaneously. To be able to do this adequately takes a great deal of skill, let alone doing it with the proficiency that has earned Musashi’s place in the annals of history.

Musashi himself actually fought against Tokugawa and his army at the Battle of Sekigahara, choosing instead to side with the army of Ishida Mitsunari. Though Musashi’s personal achievements during this battle were great, the Ishida Army lost, resulting in the establishment of the Tokugawa regime.

Years later, Miyamoto Musashi defeated another legendary swordsman of the era named Sasaki Kojiro. What’s more, Miyamoto used only one sword in this duel; a sword he carved out of a boat oar while on his way to the island where the duel was to be held. The fight lasted mere moments and resulted in Kojiro’s death.

It is said that Musashi became somewhat disgusted with killing men in duels, and would do whatever it took to avoid being challenged in the first place. It is rumored that he actually stopped bathing and wore the same dirty clothes for weeks or months at a time, resulting in a stomach-churning stench that would keep would-be challengers from even wanting to approach him, let alone fight him.

Musashi’s book, the Book of Five Rings, gives instructions to young swordsmen seeking to hone their skills both in battle and in individual dueling. The book has been adapted to business practices by companies around the world, and is seen as a corporate success tool. Whether Miyamoto would approve or not, who can say for sure.

What I can say is that Musashi Swords is a company which produces swords from their forge in China, and their swords often feature the two-ring iron tsuba design which was actually on Miyamoto’s personal blades. For the company to name themselves after such a legendary swordsman is a bold claim, but one which is not all talk. Musashi Swords offers many blades at economical prices, allowing people in our day and age who are suffering side-effects from the global economy to still collect swords without spending too much. In fact, their basic katana is offered for a mere $50.

However, for the collector who wants a Musashi Sword that is truly worthy of holding the name of a mythic swordsman, the Musashi Elite Samurai Sword (SS700-1) is a higher end blade that commands respect. The two-ring tsuba is done in an oxidized copper, giving it that aged and legendary appearance. The blade is hand forged from carbon steel and clay tempered, resulting in a hamon, or temper line, which is natural and beautiful. To clarify, the hamon is a part of the blade which must be examined with discrimination by the die-hard collector, since many low end swords feature a hamon which is wire-brushed. Musashi Swords offers low end swords with such a temper line, but the elite hamon is genuine and prominent.

The Musashi Elite Samurai Sword is simply beautiful. I’ll admit, my personal preference is toward a blade that doesn’t have a lot of artwork or gold-clad furnishings. That means that while many would claim this sword to be beautiful simply to try and make a sales pitch, I truly believe it to be a worthy addition to any collection. It is fully functional. After all, Miyamoto would have it no other way if he were around to give his two cents worth.

Every sword should tell a story. This one tells a legend.

For more information on this and other Musashi Swords, please visit SamuraiSupply.com Sword Articles, or visit our website at SamuraiSupply.com. If you have any questions or comments, please send them to info@samuraisupply.com.