Question about koto-style shinai

[olaf]

Hi folks,

Someone has probably answered this question before, but do any of you know why koto-styled shinai are always so much more expensive than dobari?

Thanks!

[Neil Gendzwill]

Do you mean chokuto? This style of shinai is favoured by older people, usually sensei. I speculate that since they appreciate a higher quality shinai that chokuto are usually made for that market. Another idea is that chokuto are expected to be heavier and have the weight evenly distributed, which requires they be made of bamboo with a thicker "meat", therefore they cost more money.

Dobari shinai are popular with all kinds of people, so you can get them in all price ranges. I have a nice chokuto and a nice dobari, both of which listed for the same price.

[Brian C.]

Hey there Neil,


Do you suggest anyone off the cuff that sells the shinais that we are speaking of ( chokuto )? I mean anyone in particular? Someone that is really good.

BC

[Neil Gendzwill]

E-bogu and bogubag.com both supply fine quality chokuto shinai.

[Brian C.]

Thanks Neil


BC