How to maintain your bokken, jō and tantō… For an unvarnished new weapon or one that needs serious maintenance you can start with very fine grit (P400), then work your way successively through P600 up to super fine grit (P1200). Wooden weapons are best maintained by regular sanding and oiling. A hard, smooth surface makes your weapon not only less… Read more →
When the founder of aikido passed away in 1969, sword training at the Honbu dojo in Japan ceased to exist as a part of the regular curriculum. The importance and history of sword training in the study of aikido is discussed in this article by BiIl Gleason Sensei, chief instructor at Shobu Aikido of Boston. (~1300 words) At that time sword training… Read more →