In a nutshell ⚡
What is Mekugi?
- Bamboo peg (flexible) or metal peg (durable)
- Secures the blade in the handle, guaranteeing safety and stability.
- Maintenance: Regular check-ups are necessary.
- Easy to remove and replace.
- Price: $5 for two in bamboo, $10 to $50 for a pair in metal.
Or read on for detailed information 📚!
The Mekugi is a bamboo peg inserted into the handle of a katana, called a Tsuka, to securely fix the tang of the blade (Nakago) into the handle. Traditionally made of bamboo (more precisely, Susudake, an aged and reinforced bamboo), the Mekugi must be both flexible and strong. Some modern or rarer models can be made from metal, although bamboo is preferred for its natural resilience. One or sometimes two Mekugi are commonly found on Shinken and Iaitos.
What’s a Mekugi for?
Seemingly insignificant, this pin is essential for the weapon’s safe use. This small pin ensures that the blade is securely fixed in the handle (Tsuka), preventing any displacement or dislodging during use, which could compromise the user’s safety and the weapon’s effectiveness.
Furthermore, as the katana is designed to be dismantled, the Mekugi allows the blade to be removed for maintenance or repair. As the katana is subjected to high pressure, it is essential that the Mekugi is made from a quality material and is well positioned to guarantee the weapon’s stability.
How Mekugi is made?
Making Mekugi requires special know-how. The choice of bamboo is crucial, as it must be dense and flexible enough not to crack under pressure. Craftsmen carve it carefully, ensuring that it fits perfectly into the holes drilled in the Tsuka and Nakano. The katana is generally held in place by one or two Mekugi, depending on the style and school of martial arts. The Mekugi has a variable diameter, generally between 5mm and 6mm, and a length of 20 to 30 mm, depending on the width of the handle.
Mekugi maintenance and replacement
Like all katana components, the Mekugi requires regular maintenance. Practitioners of kendo, iaido, batto-do, or Tameshigiri know that careful inspection before each use is essential. Bamboo, though durable, can degrade over time, especially after repeated use.
A worn, warped, broken, or cracked Mekugi must be replaced immediately to avoid accidents. If the Mekugi deteriorates, the blade may become misaligned, or even detach from the handle.
Changing the Mekugi regularly not only ensures safety but also prolongs the life of your katana. Maintenance also involves checking the fit of the pin: if it’s too loose, it will no longer perform its function properly. On the other hand, a too-tight Mekugi could crack the handle, weakening the whole weapon.
How to change a Katana’s Mekugi?
Changing a Mekugi is an essential operation to ensure the safety and stability of your katana. Fortunately, it can be easily removed and replaced. Here are the steps to follow to perform this task correctly:
- Remove the old, worn-out Mekugi: Use a small punch (called a Mekugi-nuki) to gently extract the handle pin (or Tsuka) if you have one, otherwise a fine tool like a screwdriver and a small hammer can do the trick. Do this with care to avoid damaging the Tsuka or Nakago (the tang of the blade). Never use force, as the risk of cracking the wood or bamboo is high.
- Measure the old Mekugi: Once the Mekugi has been removed, measure it precisely. The size and diameter must match perfectly with the new Mekugi you’re going to install. You can either buy a replacement from a specialist store, or make your own from quality bamboo, such as Susudake, or another sturdy material.
- Installing the new Mekugi: Insert the new Mekugi into the drilled holes (called Mekugi-ana) in the handle and tang. Make sure the peg fits correctly, without being too tight or too loose. A perfect fit is necessary to ensure that the blade remains securely in place during use.
- Check: After installing the Mekugi, test the stability of the blade. It should be firmly held in the handle, with no play. Also check the condition of the pin each time you use it, to ensure that it is not worn or cracked.
How much does a Mekugi cost?
- Bamboo Mekugi: Less than $5 for 2 Mekugi.
- Metal Mekugi: Between $10 and $50 per pair, depending on quality and material.
Bamboo is preferred for its flexibility, while metal is sometimes chosen for its durability.