Basic Tsuka Shapes of Japanese Katana Swords
By Dremdsword
July 17th, 2024
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The Japanese term "tsuka" translates to "handle". It generally has an oval or cylindrical shape. However, there are variations in the shape of the tsuka, depending on the school of sword-making and personal preferences of the swordsmith. This integral part of the sword not only allows its wielder to use the weapon, but also affects how the weapon is used and presented.
There are four basic shapes of Japanese sword handles as explained below:
1. "Haichi Tsuka", the most common, the mune-side almost straight, the ha-side slightly tapered, following the lines of the sword
2. "Rikko Tsuka", almost hour glass shaped
3. "Imogata" ("potatoe shape"), both sides straight
4. "Morozori", closely following the shape of the saya, mostly with tachi/ handachi
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