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What is a Tsuka?

In a nutshell

  • The base of the katana handle, also known as the Tsuka, is made of sturdy wood.
  • Samegawa: a ray or shark skin covering the wood to improve grip and absorb shocks.
  • Tsuka-ito: a weave of cotton, silk, or leather, wraps the Samegawa for a firm grip.
  • Mekugi: Bamboo pegs fixing the blade tang to the handle (Tsuka).
  • Menuki: Metal ornaments under the braid, improving grip and serving as decoration.
  • Fuchi and Kashira: Metal rings at the ends of the Tsuka to hold the structure in place.
  • Seppa: Metal washers ensure a perfect fit between the handle (tsuka) and the guard (tsuba).

Or read on for detailed information 📚!

What is the Tsuka of a katana?

The Tsuka is the handle of Japanese swords such as the katana, tachi, wakizashi, and tanto. It plays a key role in the weapon’s balance and maneuverability. It is made from two half-shells of wood, often magnolia or oak (honoki), which are glued together using rice glue to surround the tang of the blade, called Nakago. The wood is then wrapped in Samegawa, a stingray or shark skin, whose rough texture improves grip. The whole thing is wrapped in a braid of cotton, silk, or leather, known as Tsuka-ITO. The braiding plays a key role, not only in the grip but also in the durability and strength of the weapon.

Etymology

The term Tsuka () in Japanese means “handle” or “grip” and refers specifically to the part by which a bladed weapon, such as the katana, is held. The word is made up of a single kanji character, , which can also mean “shape” or “pattern”, depending on the context.

Tsuka components

Tsuka is made up of several components, each with a specific function:

Katana Tsuka components
  1. Tsuka-ITO or Tsukamaki: This is the rope used to wrap the handle (tsuka). It can be made from a variety of materials such as cotton, leather, silk, or even suede. The braiding of the Tsuka-ITO is crucial to ensure a firm, durable grip, enabling the samurai to wield his weapon with precision and control.
  2. Samegawa: This is the skin of a ray or shark, known as shagreen, which covers the wood of the Tsuka before braiding. This material offers a rough, non-slip texture that improves grip and helps hold the braid firmly in place. It also helps absorb vibrations on impact, making handling more comfortable. In some prestige katanas, the same is embellished with symbolic motifs, representing carp, dragons, or other mythological animals.
  3. Mekugi: Mekugi are bamboo pegs inserted through the Tsuka to hold the Nakago securely inside. There are usually one or two Mekugi, depending on the katana. They secure the blade to the handle and ensure safe handling, even in intense combat conditions.
  4. Menuki: Menuki are metal ornaments inserted under the Tsuka-ITO. Traditionally made of copper, brass, or other precious metals, these ornaments have two main functions: to improve grip by providing additional anchoring points and to embellish the handle with symbolic designs often fashioned in the shape of animals or protective symbols.
  5. Fuchi and Kashira: The Fuchi is the metal ring at the upper end of the Tsuka, and the Kashira is the pommel at the lower end. These two elements secure the Tsuka by holding all components firmly together. The Fuchi and Kashira are often decorated with traditional motifs to match the guard, symbolizing spiritual or warlike themes.
  6. Seppa: Seppa are small metal washers between the guard (tsuba) and the Tsuka. They hold the whole structure firmly in place and prevent any play between the blade and handle.

Importance of the Tsuka in katana handling

The handling of the katana, known as Kenjutsu, relies heavily on the ergonomics of the Tsuka. A well-designed handle enables the swordsman to channel his strength into the blade while maintaining great finesse in his movements. The length of the Tsuka varies according to the type of katana and the size of the swordsman, ensuring perfect control of the blade when striking.

The balance between tsuka and blade is essential for precise cuts. A Tsuka that is too long or too short can make handling difficult or even dangerous. What’s more, the quality of the materials used in Tsuka manufacture ensures good shock absorption, preventing the blade from vibrating excessively on impact.

Symbolic role of the Tsuka

Beyond its practical function, the Tsuka has a deep symbolic significance. The motifs chosen to adorn the Tsuka’s Menuki, Fuchi, and Kashira are often linked to values such as courage, loyalty, or wisdom. Many samurai had inscriptions engraved on their Tsuka, in homage to their clan or protective deities.

Personalizing the Tsuka was also a means of asserting rank and identity. The great warlords, the daimyos, owned katanas with richly decorated tsukas, using rare materials such as gold or ivory. Menuki, in particular, are frequently adorned with animal figures or nature-related motifs, such as dragons, carp, or dragonflies, each with a profound symbolic meaning.

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