Shinkendo Tameshigiri: Samurai Swordsmanship & Test-Cutting Book by Toshishiro Obata

The second book on shinkendo written by its founder and headmaster, Shinkendo Tameshigiri focuses exclusively on tameshigiri (test-cutting) — its history, its current practice, the different types and purposes of tameshigiri, including shito or sword-testing — and its role in shinkendo. Obata-soke has been instrumental in implementing and raising the standards of the practice of tameshigiri in swordmanship training worldwide, starting from his participation in the tameshigiri championships in Japan and perhaps culminating in the publication of this definitive volume. Included are detailed diagrams of cutting techniques and sword anatomy, step-by-step photos of maintaining swords, preparing tatami-omote, tameshigiri waza, and more. This book also extends beyond the scope of shinkendo to incorporate Obata-soke's extensive experience as a shitoka, or professional sword-tester. Intended as a resource for students and anyone interested in finding out more about shinkendo and the practice of tameshigiri.

Paperback

180 pages