Arts Entertainments

How to measure yourself for a katana

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As an experienced Iaido trainer, I receive many students in my class who enter the program with katana swords that are not suitable for them. Since Iaido is the art of removing the katana from the sheath (saya), striking, and then placing the sword back in the saya, all in one fluid, controlled motion, the length of the blade is important.

I will even admit that my first katana was too big for me, resulting in an accidental cut to my left hand. Fortunately, nothing too serious, but it changed my perspective from having a katana that looks good to one that really fits the intended purpose for the training I was enrolled in.

When working with a 26 “+ sharp blade, safety is my main focus, therefore I changed my enrollment process to inform incoming students about size calculations before class started.

How does having a sword that is too long affect safety?

Not having the katana of the proper length can cause difficulties in controlling the thrusts of the blade, as well as false depth perceptions. What I mean by “false depth perception” is that if the blade is too long, it is easy for one to underestimate the range it will have during training. If the actual length of the blade goes further than you perceive it will go, you can easily injure yourself or others who are training with you.

How to size the sheet

There are numerous methods for sizing, and depending on the sensei you speak with, each may suggest a different sizing method. There are two considerations to keep in mind when sizing a katana; the length of the handle (tsuka) and the length of the blade.

1.) To measure the tsuka, place your arm at your side with your forearm straight forward so that your elbow is at a 90-degree angle. Now use a tape measure to measure the length from your elbow to the base of your wrist. This is roughly the length your tsuka should be. If your tsuka is too long, it can interfere with your movement and get caught on your side causing the blade to slip.

2.) To measure blade length the method I have found works best and I suggest my students follow is a blade height to length ratio table (you can see one below in the resource section) . If it is 5’2 “tall, the length of the blade should be 27.5” and for every 2 “in height, add a half inch to the length of the blade.

If you’re still not sure what length to get, you can always start Iaido training with a Bokken, a wooden training sword. In fact, I recommend it as it allows you to become familiar with the art without risking injuring yourself or others around you.

Now keep in mind that these sizing methods are simply my method of sizing my students and you should consult your sensei on the proper length before purchasing a katana.

Iaido is a beautiful martial art and the katana is a great weapon derived from ancient Japanese tradition. I advise all readers to use good judgment and use a katana at your own risk.

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