Flashing Steel: Mastering Eishin-Ryu Swordsmanship

by Masayuki Shimabukuro, Leonard J. Pellman

This book is much more than an introductory guide to Muso Jikiden Eishin-Ryu Iaijutsu. It manages to emphasize a melding of the Eastern philosophy and the technique of the art, in a marvelously eloquent yet concise manner. Flashing Steel describes and pictures forty-two kata (formal training patterns) which govern this system, with ten partner exercises applying iadid principles in realistic attack and defense systems. These kata are also widely practiced by students of kendo, aikido, and other martial arts which use swordsmanship.

Genres: Martial Arts, Nonfiction

First published April 7, 1995

Reviews

[Vex · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good reference guide for at least one style of iaido, in which the pictures are actually fairly illuminating. I also enjoyed the time taken to speak to the development of iaijutsu, and philosophy about training and the nature of a dojo.

[Serge Pierro · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine book on Iaijitsu. Excellent coverage of forms and techniques of the use of the Katana. Includes historical and philosophical treatises. This was the book I used when I first started to become interested in using a Katana, and found it to be very instructive!

[Ellen]

Research for my new Geeksdanz piece...

[Michal · Rating 5 out of 5]

it is a great book and has help me under sand swordsmanship more and help me learn the art faster

[John Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best manual for assisting one to master the samurai sword.

[Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very detailed and well written book. Easy to follow, and definitely worth the money. This is one I'm going to read again and again.

[Alan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am learning batto, not iaido, so kata are different, but this is overall an excellent book with clear photos and writing.

[Brendon Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

lost a 'star' because it is not the version of Eishin-Ryu I follow, but excellent general background and philosophy that makes it worthwhile to anybody interested

[Mars Cheung · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've studied very little Iaido but the book is well worth the read for its insight into Budo (the Martial Ways) philosophy and practice.

[keereads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read