The Samurai Sword: A Handbook a Handbook

by John M. Yumoto

The samurai sword: symbol of the spirit of old Japan it embodies the samurai's steely discipline, unswerving devotion, and peerless skill. A feat of craftsmanship by hereditary artisans, the samurai sword is often judged superior to the famed blades of Western Damascus and Toledo. This complete handbook reveals the lore of the samurai sword, fascinating both for owners and for the intrigued. Detailing the origins and development of the samurai sword, its historical background, styles, famous schools, and differences in construction, outlining methods of identifying and researching the sword, as well as caring for it properly.

Genres: Nonfiction, Martial Arts, Japan, History, Japanese Literature, Reference

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1979

Reviews

[Robert Jr. · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a quick 3-hour read. Most of its chapters are structured as lists or are comprised mostly of lists. It goes through the eras of Japanese history as well as the eras of sword-making. It mentions the five schools of Japanese swordsmiths and goes into fine detail about the parts of the samurai sword. There are also lists of the maker marks that can be found on the swords as well.

It was a quick read and I did gain a couple of tidbits of information I did not have before reading the book. The read itself was not necessarily an entertaining one. However, this book is more of a reference handbook than anything else and is probably recommendable to those who need detailed info about samurai swords on hand. Otherwise, I would not really recommend this book.

[Leen Van · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allthough its an old book, it is a nice starting point into the world of japanese swords. A bit outdated on some details, but solid nonetheless. If you are a bit further it is still an okay read but you might want to try more indepth books

[Ed · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting historical artifact. Swords are cool.

[hd72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

must have if your interested in Japanese swords

Great overall reference, I would suggest this as a first and detailed and necessary read for Japanese sword enthusiasts!
Enjoy

[Jake · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very indepth and detailed book. Which not only provides an indepth view into the craft of a Japanese Katana but the hidden history into the development of the blades shape from it's early conception to it's now iconic shape.

[Michael Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book largely deals with the details of handling and care of a Samurai sword. It also provides a short history of their use, as well as an introduction into the evolution of the design and creation process.

[Micahlibris · Rating 4 out of 5]

More of a detailed appraisal guide than a description of the sword-making process.

[Cameron Wofford · Rating 4 out of 5]

Offered in-depth insight into the making, history and detail of Japanese swords that is hard to find anywhere else in such a collective manor.

[Belle Meade School]

739.72