The Forest Ninja

I was told long ago to not trust the Devil.

Hello, Just wondering how many learned to be be fluent in Japanese. Like how did You go about doing it and how long did it take? Cheers

I got Art of the Japanese Sword in both hardcover and pdf version. I only have the pdf version of The Craft of the Japanese Sword and some information in either book isn't present in the other so I'll get the hardcover version of The Craft of the Japanese Sword someday cause pdf files are not convenients at times.

Thus far, I only have a custom made Bokken, an Iaito and a Paul Chen/Hanwei Katana. So just need a proper Japanese blade or two to round out My collection.

No.

Just found this source in Florida. https://nihonzashi.ecwid.com/Susudake-Bamboo-for-Mekugi-p115341470 Just found this source in Japan. https://www.yamatobudogu.com/products/smoked-bamboo-for-mekugi

Mekugi it is. Thread title edited too.

Hello, Just wondering where You people get Your Mekugi pins for the tsuka? Took apart my Hanwei Katana tonight for the 1st time and and unfortunately one of the Mekugi was impossible to take out. So I drilled it out instead of taking a chance at damaging something else. Thanks,

Saving for something is a good thing. Too many people live paycheck to paycheck.

I really like this person's YouTube channel for polishing. Onishi sharpener

Exactly. I wish there would be Swordsmiths, Polishers, Saya makers, etc. around to chit chat with. It seems finding a honest Politician would be an easier search.

Sashikomi looks nicer I think if the blade can be done that way.

Taking pics of shiny steel is annoying. My eyes and camera are not in synch. I need to try again.

That Hamon looks like it would result in a weak blade if used in combat.

I used tiny files to dig out 2 Japanese knife handles for 2 Kitchen knives I made. I purchased these locally and the 5 tiny files on the bottom right were what I used. Certified Metal File Set with Convenient Carrying Pouch, High Carbon Steel, 17-pc