a recommendation and a question

[autrelle]

i am thinking of "taking the plunge" and buying a really nice bokken. i was hoping to get some feedback as to what would be a decent bokken. it wouldn't have to be a custom job or anything fancy, but it has to be sturdy, as i plan to use it plenty, for solo and partner practice. any advice is welcome.

also, has anyone here had any experience with Kanai Sensei's kumitachi?

truly

[Soulend]

White or red oak makes a good bokken- which one is personal preference. White oak has a tighter grain, and theoretically should be stronger, but from what I can gather is more susceptable to warp because it doesn't handle humidity as well as the red oak. It also tends to be a bit more expensive. Bokken made of hickory and ash also are good weapons. Although it is expensive, ebony is nearly indestructible and makes a beautiful bokken. If you find one of genuine biwa wood (related to the cypress) email me! I want one!

Stay clear of the Taiwan red-hardwood bokken. Although the price can be tempting, they will just not take the beating, and many feel too light and are improperly balanced.

[WillG]

White oak; yes. Red oak; avoid it. Not even close to the strength of white.

Ash has decent properties but is often very light in weight. When constructing bokken I typically laminate layers of white oak, hickory, and sometimes ash. I don't make solid ones anymore as no matter what the species, I've seen them break. I can't control how others are going to be using the weapons I make so I went to laminated construction as a safety precaution.

Several companies offer laminated bokken as a stock item.

Will Graves