"Shinkendo Tameshigiri: Samurai Swordsmanship &
Test-Cutting"
- 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. 180 pages.