Properly Display a Samurai Sword.

There is a correct way to display the Japanese sword on a sword stand. A lot of people automatically display it wrong.

Many feel that the sword(s) should be displayed on a stand in the same fashion as they were worn by the warrior, blades facing upward, this is felt to be the correct way as it allowed for a quick and decisive draw and strike. Displaying the swords with the blade edge facing down (Incorrect) is considered not good for the sharpened edge (ha) and misused to match the shape of oriental roofs.

Some say that the side of the stand that the handle is placed on carries some type of significance. I know since I am right handed that it just makes better sense to me that the handle (Tsuka) be on the right. Back when the swords were actually used for self defense, a handle on the right afforded a quicker drawing of the sword and therefore offered a better defense. If you are left handed then the same would apply with the handle being on the left side of the stand.

Since today's displays are more ceremonial and of pride of ownership. The handle location is a matter of preference to the individual displaying the sword. If you have a engraved blade and/or painted saya, you may choose to display the side that best shows of your prize possession.

Please do not display your Katana or Wakizashi with bare blade. This is extremely dangerous and not good for the steel. If you do choose to display your sword with a bare blade (not recommended), do so for a short period of time and be sure that the sword is in a safe location and can not be knocked into or touched by anyone. Clean and oil the blade before returning it to the saya.

How To Wrap Tsuka-ito

There are several wrap styles for the tsuka of your Katana, Wakizashi and Tanto. Below is the standard (most used) style. We offer this video which can also be found on youtube.