Users' questions /

Can you fight with a bokken?

Can you fight with a bokken?

While bokken are safer for sparring and practice than katanas, they are still lethal weapons in the hands of trained users. A famous legend to this effect exists involves Miyamoto Musashi, a ronin known to fight fully armed foes with only one or two bokkens.

Is Bokken good for self defense?

Yes, it is. Any strong, good sized stick will make a good self-defenses weapon.

Is Bokken a martial art?

Bokken are wooden swords primarily used for martial arts weapons training. They are used in Japanese martial arts such as Kendo, Kenjutsu, Ninjutsu, Budo/Bujutsu and Aikido. Bokken are traditionally constructed from hardwood (traditionally red or white oak) and are roughly the same shape and weight as the Katana.

What is kata called in kung fu?

Kata is a Japanese word (型 or 形) meaning “form”. It refers to a detailed choreographed pattern of martial arts movements made to be practised alone. It can also be reviewed within groups and in unison when training. It is practised in Japanese martial arts as a way to memorize and perfect the movements being executed.

How long should my bokken be?

The various lengths of classic and stylized Bokken (Koryu)

Model Total length Tsuka length
Kashima Shinto Ryu Bokken 106 cm 28 cm
Kashima Shin Ryu Bokken 104.5 cm 26.5 cm
Katori Shinto Ryu Bokken 97 cm 27 cm
Shinto Ryu Bokken 101.5 cm 24 cm

Are bokken sharp?

Overview of the Bokken The term “bokken” literally means “wood sword.” Unlike the shinken, the bokken isn’t made of metal, nor does it feature a live blade. Instead, it’s made entirely or mostly of wood, meaning it can’t feature a sharp edge.

How long can a bokken last?

This can take a few years for a poor quality Bokken, but 10 to 20 years for a more consistent wood. But whatever the wood; it’ll always end up wearing, losing its virtues and eventually, break.

Are Bokken sharp?

Can you carry a bokken in public?

Without getting into too many details, you’re basically fine to carry or transport a sharp sword in public, as long as you aren’t threatening anyone with it. If you draw the sword, then you’re threatening someone by brandishing a weapon and can be charged with assault because you threatened them with harm.

How heavy is a bokken?

The various thicknesses of classic and stylized Bokken (Koryu)

Model Tsuka thickness Weight in white oak
Standard/Deluxe Bokken 37 x 26 mm 600 g
Iwama Bokken 38 x 28 mm 700 g
Iwama Takemusu Bokken 39 x 29 mm 750 g
Niten Ichi Ryu Bokken 33 x 20 mm 330 g