The Tsuka

I would like to highlight in this project the contsruction of the tsuka for koshirae.  The construction of the tsuka   mirrors those steps of  shirasaya construction thereby insuring a flowing balanced union with the blade and saya.    Since the koshirae tsuka is to be wrapped and will incorporate the use of fuchi and kashira, there are steps that are truly unique to its construction.  

The tsuka is generally roughed by the sayashi with the foundation going to the tsukamakishi for completion.  The tsuka length is going to be governed by the style of wrap as well as the type and width of the silk chosen.   Working in conjunction with the tsukamakishi and knowing  the desired proportion that the tsukamakishi prefers, it is possible for the finish work to be completed by the sayashi.

Recently, there seems to be a desire to have tsuka made of extraordinary length and this is seems to be a product of certain contemporary kenjutsu styles. Many of the Japanese craftsmen that I have talked with find this trend quite humorous and that this trend is not encountered in Japan.