Samurai with a Longsword? - A Kenjutsu Master's Perspective

Skallagrim12 minutes read

The video examines the Western perspective on Japanese swords, focusing on techniques and grip adjustments for the long sword from a kenjutsu background in contrast to historical European martial arts practitioners analyzing the katana. It emphasizes the differences in weight, balance, and grip lengths between long swords and katanas, highlighting the importance of guard orientation for safety and practicality in combat situations.

Insights

  • The video delves into the unique techniques and perspectives of using the long sword from a kenjutsu background, showcasing a different approach compared to historical European martial arts practitioners analyzing the katana.
  • A focus on grip adjustments for the long sword, including turning the guard for specific cuts like the Crooked cut, underscores the importance of strength and versatility in combat situations, shedding light on the nuanced differences between long swords and katanas in weight, balance, and grip lengths.

Get key ideas from YouTube videos. It’s free

Recent questions

  • What is the Western perspective on Japanese swords?

    The Western perspective on Japanese swords is discussed in the video, contrasting with the usual approach of historical European martial arts practitioners analyzing the katana.

  • How does the video explore using the long sword?

    The video explores using the long sword from a kenjutsu background, focusing on different techniques and perspectives.

  • What is the grip adjustment for the long sword?

    The video demonstrates a grip adjustment for the long sword, turning the guard for specific cuts like the Crooked cut, providing more strength and versatility.

  • What are the differences between long swords and katanas?

    The video compares long swords and katanas, noting differences in weight, balance, and grip lengths, acknowledging the variety within each type of sword.

  • Why is guard orientation important for swords?

    The video emphasizes the importance of guard orientation for safety and practicality, discussing how it affects carrying, stacking, and protection during combat.

Related videos

Summary

00:00

Comparing Western and Japanese Sword Techniques

  • Video discusses the Western perspective on Japanese swords, contrasting with the usual approach of historical European martial arts practitioners analyzing the katana.
  • The video explores using the long sword from a kenjutsu background, focusing on different techniques and perspectives.
  • Mention of Fior's use of the long sword in one hand, highlighting situations where single-handed use may be necessary or advantageous.
  • Demonstrates a grip adjustment for the long sword, turning the guard for specific cuts like the Crooked cut, providing more strength and versatility.
  • Comparison between long swords and katanas, noting differences in weight, balance, and grip lengths, acknowledging the variety within each type of sword.
  • Emphasizes the importance of guard orientation for safety and practicality, discussing how it affects carrying, stacking, and protection during combat.
  • Explains the structural advantage gained by turning the edge against the flat in a bind, showcasing a technique for increased reach and control in thrusts.
  • Discusses using the flat of the blade, highlighting differences in rigidity between katanas and long swords, and the importance of using the shinogi to block and parry attacks effectively.
Channel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatarChannel avatar

Try it yourself — It’s free.