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First off, I would like to apologize in advance for my niavety concerning subjects held in high regard at the forums and I hope I don't offend anyone here.
I have been considering taking up some kind of weapons based training for some time now (Swordsmanship, Archery, what have you) and have narrowed it down to a Japanese style of swordsmanship. Part of the reason is my fascination with Japanese art & style. But the main reason is the etiquette, manor, and mind development that go along with this regions training. However, I realise that that is not all that narrow and was trying to find information on the various styles that exist. I have searched on the 'net some, but I almost always just get sites that sell swords and kamas and such.
I suppose what I am looking for at the moment is reference materials. Books and the like that can possibly help me get started with learning proper grip and basics of this nature. I realise that to properly train, I should find a school to join.(By the way, what is a ryu exactly? I was assuming is was either 'school' or 'style' or something of this nature perhaps?) However, due to my current situation (living in the boonies with no liscence for a few more months yet), that is just not an option at the moment.
I plan on checking the school that is within a tolerable driving distance from my home when I get my liscence back. I suppose since there isn't really a second option, would it be wise to perhaps see what style the one place that will be an option practices? I suppose that would be the best option, but I was hoping to find some materials on the basics, so that it could be applied to many styles.
I realise this post was probably a bit vague and extremely uneducated sounding, but I'm hoping that everyone understands what I am getting at. Any information on anything related to this post would be extremely appreciated as I have had a hard time finding any.
One further question: If Kenjutsu is "The Art of the Sword", what is practice of the Kama called? That is a weapon that has been really intriguing me. I've been wanting to see someone wield it as it seems like a difficult weapon to properly utilize.
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Again, thank you everyone for any information and for not beatin' down the stupid 'noob. (nudge, nudge)