Drawing the Samurai Sword: The Japanese Art of Swordsmanship; Master the Ancient Art of Iaido

Description

To the Japanese, the sword is a spiritual weapon. It possesses a particular divinity, reflecting the soul of its maker, owner, and user. Around its mystical powers has grown the centuries-old ritual and practice of Samurai swordsmanship which is still avidly practiced today as a fascinating and intricate martial art. This unique guide unlocks all the mysteries of the ancient tradition of Iaijutsu - explaining the history and significance of the sword in Samurai culture and documenting the techniques of swordsmanship as found in no other martial arts book. Darrell Max Craig is one of the foremost teachers of Kendo in the West. He spent many years in Japan competing and training at the very highest level. His book, Drawing the Samurai Sword, provides a thorough examination of all aspects of Iaijutsu - including information on sword care and selection, necessary gear, sword and dojo etiquette, and useful drills for practice and demonstration. This book also teaches readers how to: Evaluate your Samurai sword and handle it safely Wear the traditional Hakama uniform Perform the Kata forms to hone your technique And much more! Featuring a new preface by the author, original colour photos, and additional information about sword testing, this generously-illustrated book is a treasure trove of information for aspiring students and experienced practitioners alike.

Darrell Max Craig is considered one of the Pioneers of Kendo in the United States of America by the United States Kendo Federation. He began his training while in the U.S. Marine Corps, studying in Japan with Gogen Yamaguchi in 1956, and in Okinawa with Zenryo Shimabukuro beginning in 1958. While in Okinawa, he also began the study of Okinawan weaponry. Among others, he holds 7th Dan in Kendo, 6th Dan in Shito Ryu Karate, Junse Goshin Budo Jujitsu, Iaido and Okinawan Kobudo, and 4th Dan in Jodo, Osae Aikido, Kodokan Judo and Osae Junse Aikido. He was a member of Team USA in 1985 at the 6th World Kendo Championships in Paris, France. He operated the Houston Budokan, Inc., a traditional Japanese martial arts school in Texas, for nearly 50 years and is now retired.

"There are so many good things to say about this book. The author's love of swordsmanship shines through the text. He wants the reader to appreciate the sword as both the instrument of combat that it is, as well as the art piece it paradoxically also is. There are many intricate drawings, which illustrate many of the nuances of the katana. The latest edition does add some very nice color photos in the middle, that help by adding to the story. I think if you have any kind of initial interest in any of the Japanese swords systems: kenjutsu, kendo, or iaido, then this should be a book on your shelf." -- Jaredd Wilson, Martial Thoughts