Shinai
Bamboo sword used for fencing, and Suburi (cutting/swinging
practice), in Kendo. The picture shows a
shinai complete except for the Tsuba (sword guard). A metal block inside
the staves keeps their shape.
The shinai is assembled and held together by a leather cap on the
tip, (Sakigawa), a leather strip (Nakayui) wound round the staves,
and a leather sheath on the hilt called the Tsuka Gawa. A string, the Tsuru,
connects the leather parts and is secured with a knot and loop
method at the Tsuka.
Shinai should be inspected regularly for cracks in the Staves, and
for tightness of the leather/Tsuru assembly. Shinai cost from
£18 to £50 depending on quality of materials and
manufacture.
|
|
|