However, when the student is ready, there is much to be learned in practicing with a shinken. This is determined by the teacher and not by the student. For safety reasons, we do not condone the use of live blades (shinken) until the student has attained enough skill. They are poorly balanced and often do not have the craftsmanship to ensure safe practice.)Р”Р„fter years of practice you will want to buy a РІР‚СљliveРІР‚Сњ blade. (Please note: decorative swords such as those sold at cutlery and souvenir stores are usually not suitable for Iaido practice. Unfortunately, there are many poorly made Japanese style swords that are unsuitable for Iaido use. Do not purchase a sword on your own until speaking with your teacher. We can assist you in purchasing the correct sword for you. These range in cost from $400 to several thousand dollars. Once you choose to stay with Iaido you will want to purchase an Iaito (practice sword). These can be acquired locally although better quality uniforms can be purchased from Japan (see Buying Equipment). When you feel ready, you may purchase the practice uniform (traditional split skirt called Hakama and top called Uagi/Keiko-gi). Also suggested is a plastic saya, a sheath that the sword can fit into. To begin practice all you need is a wooden sword (bokuto/bokken), good-quality sports knee pads, a belt that can wrap around your body three times and comfortable clothes such as sweat pants and a t-shirt. At that time, we can answer any question you may have. We recommend that you contact us by e-mail before you view a class just to be sure that practice is scheduled on the day you choose to visit. Ken Maneker Calvin Dang Our dojo is open to anyone interested in Iaido, the traditional Way of the Japanese Sword, and we invite you to visit the dojo during a regular practice to watch a class.

Iaido practice sword