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Zaza Iaito Wakizashi
Are you seeking the serenity and discipline of the samurai in your daily practice? The Zaza Iaito Wakizashi is a beautifully crafted tribute to the resilient bamboo ("Zaza"). In Japanese tradition, bamboo represents growth, purity, and fortune due to its straight form and fresh green colour. It bends in the wind but never breaks—a metaphor for the martial artist's spirit. This unsharpened practice sword allows you to train safely while admiring the intricate details that make it a stunning display piece for any collector. Further product information ...
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Zaza Iaito Wakizashi – Bamboo Spirit by John Lee
Designed for Iai Practice and Display
This wakizashi is an Iaito, meaning it features a completely blunt blade designed for the practice of drawing techniques (Iaido) and forms (Kata). It is safe for training without the risk of cutting yourself. The blade features a groove (Bo-Hi) which reduces the overall weight and produces an audible feedback sound (tachikaze) when you perform a cutting motion with the correct alignment. Whether for the dojo or your living room wall, this sword commands respect.
Historical Significance
The Wakizashi was the samurai's constant companion. While the longer katana was removed indoors, the shorter wakizashi remained at the warrior's side as a "guardian of honour." The Zaza theme is omnipresent on this piece. From the hand-worked metal fittings (tsuba, fuchi, menuki, kashira) to the delicate gold bamboo leaves on the scabbard, every detail tells a story of nature's strength. The use of buffalo horn for the scabbard endings (kojiri, kurigata, koiguchi) adds a touch of historical authenticity often missing in modern replicas.
Features and Craftsmanship
John Lee has spared no expense in materials. The blade is hand-forged from 420 stainless steel in the Shinogi-Zukuri style. The handle (tsuka) features real ray skin (same) under a tight black cotton wrap (Hineri-Maki). Importantly, the sword is secured by two bamboo pegs (mekugi), allowing it to be fully disassembled for maintenance. No plastic parts are used—only authentic materials like wood, metal, and horn.
Step-By-Step Instructions: How to Disassemble (and Assemble) a Katana?
Specifications
| Blade Style | Shinogi-Zukuri with groove (Bo-Hi), blunt |
| Blade Material | 420 Stainless Steel, hand-forged |
| Handle Wrap | Black cotton (Hineri-Maki) over real ray skin |
| Scabbard (Saya) | Black lacquer (Cha-Ishimi style) with buffalo horn fittings |
| Tang | Full tang, secured with 2 Mekugi |
| Fittings | Brass and metal with bamboo design |
Care Instructions
To keep your Zaza Wakizashi in pristine condition:
- Maintenance: Although stainless steel is resistant to rust, wipe the blade clean after every session to remove oils and sweat.
- Handling: Avoid touching the blade with bare hands to prevent smudges.
- Storage: Store in the included cloth bag inside a dry room.
- Care and Maintenance of Samurai Swords and Japanese Swords
Safety Warning
This is a practice sword (Iaito) with a stainless steel blade. It is not suitable for cutting tests (tameshigiri) or contact sparring. Stainless steel can be brittle under impact. It is designed strictly for solo forms and non-contact practice. While the edge is blunt, the tip is pointed, so always exercise caution.
Consider pairing this with the Zaza Iaito Katana to create a matching Daisho set for your collection.
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