Foundation of Grip

Proper grip is the foundation of effective cutting technique. Without correct hand placement, the practitioner will struggle to maintain a straight cutting line. The grip must support the sword's weight while allowing for precise blade control.

Hand Positioning on the Handle

The left hand is placed on the back side of the handle with knuckles aligned to the diamond patterns created by the wrapping. The right hand approaches from above, positioned at least one finger width away from the guard (tsuba). Both hands grip from above rather than from the sides, with thumbs never placed on top.

Essential Sword Anatomy

The katana consists of the suka (handle), suba (guard), toshin (blade), and saya (scabbard). Critical components include the mekugi (pegs holding handle to blade), same (ray skin), and habaki (collar). Understanding these parts enables proper technique execution and equipment maintenance.

Blade Structure and Cutting Zones

The blade features the ha (cutting edge), mine (back edge), shinogi (center ridge), and bohi (groove). The monochi—approximately nine inches from the tip to the yokote line—is the primary cutting zone. The hamon (temper line) and hoshi (curved tip) are identifying features of blade quality.

Blade Curvature and Maintenance

The katana's characteristic curve (sori) concentrates maximum curvature at the blade's center, optimizing cutting efficiency for iaido and batto. Proper maintenance with a quality cleaning kit ensures the sword remains functional for a lifetime of practice.

Primary Cutting Targets: Men and Yoko Men

The men (head) cut is a direct vertical strike down the body's centerline using the monochi. The yoko men (side head) cut targets the temple area with a lateral strike. Both cuts require proper blade placement and adequate cutting edge depth for effectiveness.

Diagonal Cuts: Keisa and Kiriyage

The keisa cut follows a diagonal line from shoulder to opposite hip, mimicking the line of traditional robes, and can be delivered with either the monochi or kisaki. The kiriyage (rising cut) travels diagonally upward from hip to shoulder blade, reversing the keisa's direction and trajectory.

Torso Cuts: Doe and Variations

The doe (torso) cut targets the main body and can be executed from front or back, with variations including yoko (side) and sui hei (horizontal) cuts. These cuts may angle through the body or strike perpendicular to the centerline, requiring adaptation based on target and positioning.

Masayuki Shimabukuro Samurai Swordsmanship: The Basics [1/11] CD1

34r4k1

Waki Gamae

2 min read·8 key moments·PT10M19S video

Key Takeaways

•Foundation of Grip
•Hand Positioning on the Handle
•Essential Sword Anatomy
•Blade Structure and Cutting Zones

black belt Hall presents: the art of sword of the samurai in the famous Wizard Masayuki Simabukuro (Masayuki Shimabukuro)-Weapons Instructor of the year, 2006-and his senior disciple Karl e. long (Carl e. long) that demonstrate rituals and technology tell us about the history and construction of the sword of the Samurai. This trehtomnaa DVD collection includes the basics of Iaido, intermediate, and advanced level, as well as interviews with both teachers.

Related Techniques

Chudan No Kamae Gedan No Kamae Hasso No Kamae Jodan No Kamae

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this video teach about waki gamae?

This video covers foundation of grip, hand positioning on the handle, essential sword anatomy. It provides detailed instruction from 34r4k1.

How long does it take to learn waki gamae?

The basic mechanics can be understood in a single session, but developing reliable execution requires consistent drilling over weeks of practice. This 8-part breakdown helps structure your training by isolating each phase of the technique.