| * Bokken thickness and circumference measurements |
| For purposes of discussing the "thickness" or "girth" of the tsuka, it is useful to describe the shape of the oval cross section. Circumference measurements alone are not useful in describing the character of a wooden sword. Major and minor axis determine its feel. Here's why: |
| Note in the diagram below, three drastically different shapes are shown. |
| 1) A medium / large bokken with a typical oval cross section. At the tsuka, it has a circumference of 4.13". |
| 2) Notice the elongated elliptical shape - it also has a circumference of 4.13"! |
| 3) Finally, look at the round dowel of 1.3" diameter, it also has a circumference of 4.13"! |
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| * Bokken weights |
| Kingfisher offers different grades of wood quality which affects the overall weight of individual products. The weights shown above reflect an average grade level 5 for each respective weapon. Grade 7 is at least 10% heavier and grades 3 & 4 are lighter. We do not guarantee exact weight but the information above is valuable for comparative purposes. Bokken are rarely as heavy as live blades. For more information on the historical character of bokken and the reasons for their weights and sizes see this link: The character of Japanese Wooden Swords. |
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