Introduction to Draw Cutting

Draw cutting is an advanced wakizashi technique that combines the unsheathing and cutting motion into a single, fluid movement. Three primary variations exist: downward cuts, horizontal cuts, and upward cuts. Practitioners should review foundational unsheathing and resheathing techniques before attempting this method.

Safety for the Practitioner

All draw cutting practice must begin with a bokken (wooden sword) to prevent serious injury. The cutting motion must remain continuous and smooth—any hesitation or backward motion risks the blade contacting the practitioner's arm. The sword exits the scabbard and cuts in one uninterrupted motion without reversal.

Protecting the Equipment

Improper draw technique damages both the blade and scabbard. The sword must be drawn straight, maintaining traction on the spine (non-sharp edge) as it exits. Only after the blade fully clears the scabbard should the cutting angle change—downward, horizontal, or upward—preventing arc cuts that damage the sword's edge.

Downward Draw Cut Mechanics

The downward draw cut initiates with the body rising as the blade exits the scabbard. The practitioner rotates through the torso during the cut, allowing body mass to travel upward then downward into the target. This kinetic sequencing maximizes force transfer through the blade.

Horizontal Draw Cut Mechanics

For horizontal draw cuts, the body begins slightly rotated toward the target. As the blade unsheathes, the entire body rotates through the cut in a singular sweeping motion. This full-body rotation generates power throughout the horizontal arc.

Upward Draw Cut Mechanics

Upward draw cuts at mid-level targets require the practitioner to begin in a lower stance. The body rises through the unsheathing and cutting motion, channeling upward momentum into the blade. High-level upward cuts allow for greater flexibility in body positioning.

Wakizashi vs. Katana Considerations

The wakizashi's shorter blade simplifies the draw phase but complicates the cutting phase due to reduced mass. Unlike the katana, which carries through targets via blade weight alone, the wakizashi demands greater body mechanics and muscular control to achieve effective penetration. Practitioners must emphasize proper body mass utilization when training with the shorter blade.

Advanced wakizashi technique-draw cutting [wakizashi tutorial/tameshigiri]

Just a Bug

Coupe

2 min read·7 key moments·PT5M59S video

Key Takeaways

•Introduction to Draw Cutting
•Safety for the Practitioner
•Protecting the Equipment
•Downward Draw Cut Mechanics

Today I go through how to do a draw cut and some tips and tricks of how to add more force and mass into the strike for a better cut. I am practising with my usual sword of choice; the wakizashi, but I include some clips of me draw cutting with a katana too. My apologies, I point to the wrong side of the screen when referring to links. Swords-T10 clay tempered wakizashi 55cm blade length -1060 steel katana 70cm blade length Tameshigiri targets -Pool noodles-these require good edge alignment or they will not cut, very little power required. Also pool noodles that have been bent or manhandled have their fibres break and become incredibly difficult to cut as they have a tendency to bend instead -Newspaper-these are more forgiving on edge alignment but require more power and a proper acceleration through the target. The target difficulty can be adjusted based on rolling tightness and number of papers in the roll Always be aware of your surroundings and minimise harm to yourself, others and your environment. Never use weapons when intoxicated or upset or for any act of violence. If you would like to support the channel you can buy me a coffee here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/justabug Thanks to everyone who has supported the channel, your coffees are much appreciated! Check out my Instagram at just_a_bug_swordsman for more content. For messages and reaching out to the channel email me at [email protected]

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about coupe?

This video covers introduction to draw cutting, safety for the practitioner, protecting the equipment. It provides detailed instruction from Just a Bug.

How long does it take to learn coupe?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 7-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.