4 comments about Japanese Sword Drawing : A Sourcebook.

1. This book is probably the most in-depth book on Japanese swordsmanship I have ever read. There is enough information in this book to work on for years literally with time and patience. I have been involved in the martial arts for close to six years and have had exposure to numerous arts, and I have always supplemented my training with videos and book material. This book lives up to its claims in every way and is a huge step forward in the preservation of Japanese swordsmanship. I recomend it to any student of the Martial arts regardless of style.



2. I was very disappointed once I`d had the chance to examine my copy of Mr Zier`s offering.
   To be fair, the manual is presented as a "source book for Iaido students" and not a "how to" book. Never the less I suspect that even longtime practitioners of these forms would be hard pressed to follow the fairly rudimentary instructions. Apart from making it almost impossible to re-enct the forms correctly (possibly intentional, a book is no substitute for a good teacher) it also fails to present a convincing picture of the art. Perhaps footwork diagrams would make it a little easier to follow the action.
   The kata are variously performed by Mr Zier and 2 of his students, sadly the form displayed is less than perfect. Am I being overly critical? I don`t think so. I think it reasonable to expect anyone who is presented as "a noted master" to at least display decent posture and to ensure that his representatives do the same. After all if this is a source book then surely the material therin should be technically flawless. Anything less would simply lead to still further degeneration of the art.

   Curiously, Mr Zier offers no details of his teachers and his own instruction in the art he now represents to us.

   In the final analysis I don`t believe that this book would be of any real use to any practicing students of Iai who are fortunate to have access to a decent certified instructor.

   Students of Iai looking for more indepth reading on their art might do well to locate a copy of "Japanese Swordsmanship" by Gordon Warner & Donn F. Draeger.




3. A wonderfully illustrated book which also provides excellent detailed instructions on the correct use of the Japanese sword. This book is quickly becoming a classic and I regard it as THE best book on the subject of Iaido (in English) written to date.



4. This is a quite poor Iaido book mainly because the photos illustrating the iaido kata movements are almost without exception wrong, incorrect and totally misleading. Anyone who is practicing Iaido under proper instruction (i.e., qualified instructor/sensei) and using this as a reference book will be disappointed and will be mislead. Anyone who is practicing on their own (actually they should not as they will always get it wrong) will not be able to learn properly.

5 comments about Iaido Sword: Kamimoto-Ha Techniques of Muso Shinden Ryu.

1. Actually, this book wasn't what i expected, you'll get bored from all that reading. Also, iaido is not a straightforward art, i don't see that emphasized. Every situation has a different bunkai, it's really a mental building system. And that's why i like books like e.g. Aikido: Harmony of Nature by Saotome Sensei. Also i'm quit sure there are some mistakes in that book regarding the naming of some kata's.



2. This books is excellent. The language that is using is easily understanable even for a non-native english speaker, and there are many photos that are used to clarify many points.



3. I dont study MSR, I study Mugai Ryu, but to find GOOD books in english on Mugai Ryu is extremely difficult(only so many ways you can cut). As a reference guide, this book is really good, it's all there, history, philosophy, etiquette and technique etc. The only issue I have, is that 90% of the text from page 217 is missing, as that is a judging guide, it doesn't bother me too much. All in all, a good book for any iai practitioner



4. Una Guia Excelente y bien estructurada, con muchos detalles que a veces escapan en la practica del iaido.
   de verdad un libro que todo iaidoka debe tener.



5. Like any physical skills text, it is difficult to actually learn how to perform sword techniques without an instructor. What this great text does is show the basic history and basic techniques of Muso Shinden Ryu Iaido. For those not involved in the sword arts, Iaido is the art of drawing out the sword and cutting in one smooth flowing manner. It is important to train under a competent Iaido/Iaijutsu instructor to learn the finer points. Swords are sharp and one should not practice these movements without expert guidance. This volume is organized into five sections: Section one covers the history, section two deals with preparation, section three shows how to bring your sword into action, section four teaches basic movements, and section five, which is the longest, covers the various Iaido katas of Muso shinden Ryu. In conclusion, this is a book that will be of interest to students of Kenjutsu and Iaijutsu or Iaido. Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Wakizashi-Jutsu, Samurai Aerobics, Knife Handling and Knife Defense for Law Enforcement Manual, Mini-Baton official manual, Martial Art Myths, Never Trust a Politician).

1 comments about Strategy in Japanese Swordsmanship.

1. This slim volume contains a career-full of good advice, not only for the kenshi but for all students of martial arts. His exercises are simple but well thought out and prepare the student sequentially for more and more insight into an opponent, his strengths and weaknesses, and his strategy. Suino's books are among the best available.

4 comments about Iaido: History, Teaching & Practice Of Japanese Swordsmanship.

1. Interesting book on the Yagyu Shinkage-Ryu style of Iaido. This style claims to be "Koryu", or traditional school. Not for beginners, because only shows you what`s done, but no how`s done.
   If you are an Iaido student from any other style this book is a refreshing look at a different style. The differences in this style are many, from the initial draw,"Niki-Tsuke", which in this style is more a two handed deflection of your enemy`s weapon,(Sword,Spear,Tanto etc.),to the imaginary blood cleaning of your sword, "Chiburi or Chiburui", which in this style comes from elevating your sword to a high position,"jodan no kamae" and cutting down in front of your knee, while kneeling. The book does not explain that this is done, with a reversed grip of your left hand. The noto or sheating of your sword is explained in the text, but is not shown in the photographs, which I believe was omited on purpose. I only give 4 stars to this otherwise excelent book, because there`s a lot that is not expalin or show.For someone who is just begining Iaido I recommend "Iaido Sword:kamimoto-Ha techniques of Muso Shinden Ryu" by Richard W. Babin. ISBN 1581603770. Is another style and the book is not a "how to" book, but at least explains many things and most important if you are a beginner, gives you many safety tips, and advise on swords, etc.



2. As a former student of Akita Moriji sensei, I am very much obliged to give this book 5 stars. The book is actually 2 parts- the original (translated) kata section and a well-researched history section. Akita sensei wrote the kata section which includes pictures of him doing the kata and an explanation (albeit basic) of the moves. I believe he published his book as a way to explain the kata to other sensei in Japan who are not familiar with Shinkageryuu, so the descriptions are written for experienced iaidoka- NOT beginners. The book is meant to merely be a guide to remember and explain, not to thoroughly teach the kata. One more point to remember is that Akita sensei's Shinkageryuu is somewhat different from the Yagyuu family Shinkageryuu which is more comon. The history section is great for anyone interested in iaido, though.
   
   Akita sensei has now handed over teaching to his son, but another sensei, Akita sensei's protégé Matsuoka sensei, has also become very well-known for this style. I sincerely hope people in and outside of Japan with embrace this and other non-MSR and MJER styles to continue the traditions. Reading this book, as well as others on lesser-known styles, is essential for experienced practitioners.



3. Not a bad book for someone experienced in Iai, definitely a dry read. The photos and descriptions of technique are somewhat vague and generally un-helpful unless you've seen it in real life before. If I had picked it up in a bookstore I'd flip through it and then put it back. It is still a good, well written book and a good addition to the library of the sword enthusiast just don't expect to beat any samurai after reading it.



4. I would have to agree with some of the other reviews about this book. It starts with the teachings and then goes into the practice. The teaching portion is pretty good telling you how to be a Samurai. The practice portion is very vague. A person would really have to know the techniques in order to perform the katas. I studied Eishin Ryu for a while is the reason I know some of the waza's but, seeing how these techniques are in the book I could get lost nevermind the beginner.
   This is a good book to add to your library for conversation. Maybe! But I would not buy this bokk if I was just starting out with never picking up a katana.
   If you do want to purchase this book I would go to used and new books for sale tabs to find a very cheap one.

5 comments about Flashing Steel: Mastering Eishin-Ryu Swordsmanship.

1. I recommend this as a reference for anyone interested in Iaido/Iaijutsu. One word of caution, though: there's many schools of Iaido, so some of the material presented herein will or will not apply to your particular school. However, the background and philosophy material are applicable throughout.



2. This book is an excellent reference for anyone studying Iaijutsu! It does not however replace the proper instruction of a qualified Sensei. See www.jikishin-kai.com to find a qualified instructor in this style of Iaijutsu in your local area today!
   
   NEWS FLASH!
   
   Shimabukuro Sensei will teach a seminar in Muso Jikiden Eishin-Ryu Iaijutsu in Pensacola,FL on March 6, 7 and 8, 2009. The seminar will be held at the dojo (Big Green Drum Japanese Martial Arts.)
   
   
   We will have more details up on our web site soon.
   [...]
   
   For more information about Shimabukuro Sensei, see [...]



3. I am no expert whatsoever in Iaido, although I have taken classes in it as part of my training in Aikido; in my school of Aikido, Iaido is integrated with the Aikido.
   
   The first 60 pages of the book covers the philosophy and ideology behind this martial style, at the time I did not know much of samurai ideology, which is very different from Aikido's, so it was very fascinating to read about it.
   
   The rest of the book describes techniques of Eishin-Ryuu with text and pictures.
   
   I wouldn't refer to it as an complete instructional book, you really need a teacher for learning any traditional martial art.
   That said, if you already know some Iaido beforehand you could learn from this book, assuming you have the gear.
   
   You will gain the most from this book if you actually take classes, or have taken classes, in Iaido...because sword training really should be experienced to feel the joy and mental depth of it, not just read about.



4. First let me start by saying this is a fantastic book as the other reviewers have said. With that said the 2nd Edition is that much better. I own both editions. Where the first edition might have 4 photos of a series, the 2nd edition has 16 to 20. This means that you can see what the intermediate positions look like. The first edition is ~270 pages while the second edition is ~335. Also, the second edition is physically larger.
   
   Even if you already own the first edition I would recommend the second edition. Also, I would recommend Samurai Swordmanship Vol. 1: Basic Sword Program by Masayuki Shimabukuro as the author demonstrates what he describes in the book. The DVD does not match up perfectly with the book but is great for actually seeing and hearing how things are done. Also, it will help with your pronunciation.



5. This book used in combination with the author's video series on Eishin-Ryu Iaido makes an excellent course in Japanese Swordmanship. As a life time student of the martial arts, including kendo, kenjutsu and iaido, I found this book to be a great help in my own personal training. Even though nothing can take the place of personal instruction with a sword master, this book when used in combination with Master Shimabukuro's video series on Eishin-Ryu Iaido will provide a solid basic guide to this martial art. Rating: 5 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Martial Art Myths, Season of the Warrior, Wakizashi-Jutsu manual, Tanto-jutsu manual, Samurai aerobics: Use of the Sword for total fitness, Monandock Defensive Tactics System, Use of the Monadnock Straight Baton, Never Trust a Politician).

5 comments about The Art of Japanese Swordsmanship: A Manual of Eishin-Ryu Iaido.

1. While it should go without saying that no martial art can be learned solely from a book and that the intricacies need to be experienced with a real live teacher in real time, I think that this book can definitely benefit students of Eishin Ryu Iaido. Whether you are a beginner, trying to remember the waza (techniques), or an old hand, looking to brush up on the basics that can get lost over time, Suino's book is a good reference text.
   
   I have to say that I was surprised. So many martial arts texts either have amateurish pictures (such as Yang Jwing-Ming's texts, which are otherwise so useful) or pictures that simply don't include enough details. This book has basic but clear graphics that, along with real-life/real-time instruction, make a lot of sense. Even Suino's description of how to put on the gi and hakama are better than most I've seen. (If he included how to fold the hakama, it would be even better! Luckily, you can get that online ([...]).)
   
   Compared to a book like Flashing Steel, Suino helps the beginner in particular by focusing on the pragmatic topics: he lists and explains the introductory Batto Ho no Bu (Drawing Methods Set) techniques, the intermediatesd Tatehiza no Bu (Half-Seated Set), and the advanced Tachiwaza no Bu (Secret Forms, Standing Set). While the glossary could be longer, you can filter through the text to find other words/phrases that he uses and explains and pencil them into the glossary on your own.
   
   The other thing that really excites me about this book is that he always includes the kanji (Japanese characters) for the names of the techniques. As an intermediate speaker of Japanese, that helped me a lot when I was trying to figure out what the names really meant.



2. I can't say anymore this book is exclent. it has diagrams and is verry informative. just be sure to buy th required equitment.



3. This book makes no claims to be the be-all-end-all of iaido instruction - it flat-out states that you should go get a sensei. That said, Suino does a good job of providing a good reference for those who know what they're doing and a good starting point for those who don't.
   
   I like how each kata's rationale is explained and how each move is detailed. The opening sections, like how to bow and the parts of the sword, are good introductions for beginners. My main problem with the book was that some moves are still ambiguous, despite there being pictures and text explanations. Close-ups on what certain body parts or doing or a constant perspective (each diagram, with rare exception, is seen from the figure's right side, even if he turns, leaving the reader confused as to what direction they should be facing).
   
   That aside, the book is a good reference, and practitioners of iaido should seriously consider buying it.



4. Though I really enjoyed this book, without a basic knowledge of Iaido, one could easily find the drawings too complex to follow. The book is of value more to a student of Iaido who is taking lessons from a sword master. This text when used in combination with hands-on training would be the best combination. In conclusion, this is a book for anyone interested in basic Japanese Swordsmanship. Rating: 4 Stars. Joseph J. Truncale (Author: Wakizashi-Jutsu Manual, Tanto-Jutsu Manual, Martial Art Myths, Monadnock Defensive Tactics System, Use of the Straight Baton, PR-24 Police Baton Advanced Techniques, Samurai Aerobics: The Samurai Sword workout, Never Trust a Politician).



5. As others have said, the diagrams are nearly impossible to follow. It was a good idea to include them, but it's impossible to tell which foot is where. I ended up going through each of the steps and wrote "R" or "L" on the diagrams to give me a better idea of what should be where. Another issue with the diagrams is that sometimes they don't match up with the corresponding paragraph describing what the diagram is showing. Quite simple, the text will be saying one thing, and the diagram will be showing something completely different. It is almost as if the diagrams were made first, then the descriptions, then the descriptions were edited to include or drop extra steps, which is fine, but the diagrams were never changed to reflect these changes. While it can be frustrating at times, on the flip side it does encourage you to pay closer attention. Just remember to go by the text and not the diagrams.
   
   Despite these problems, it's a good starting point. I have no teachers of this style anywhere near where I live currently, so I wanted to get at least the barest minimum instruction in advance of moving to a place where there is a reputable teacher.

5 comments about IAI: The Art Of Drawing The Sword.

1. I say "oldie" because the All Japan Kendo Federation has added several new kata to its regimen since the book was published. But the description "goodie" still fits! There's a bit of something for everyone in this book: stories, history, philosophy, and practical tips.
   
   As always, I'm grateful for the many thoughtful reviews here on Amazon. I'm surprised, however, that so many folks think a BOOK is the way to learn any martial art, especially a traditional one like iaido. If you're serious about learning iai (and not just reading about it), find a qualified, respected instructor and practice, practice, practice. Then buy this book as a supplement to your education.



2. Well laid out and informative. Unlike other reviewers I really liked the illustrations. They are simple, but easy to understand and more than adequate to reinforce the commentary. This fascinating book covers everything from understanding the terminology to selecting and purchasing a sword, to caring for your weapon, to etiquette, to technique. It even shows how to fold your uniform. I especially enjoyed the historical vignettes scattered throughout. The section on sword testing was also captivating. If you want a solid education in the fundamentals of iaido this is an excellent resource. It is not really aimed at advanced practitioners but is well written for beginners and intermediate students. I learned a lot from this excellent tome.
   
   Lawrence Kane
   Author of Surviving Armed Assaults, The Way of Kata, and Martial Arts Instruction



3. This book provides a wealth of great information and diagrams on everything from the history of Japanese swords and coverage of several famous sword stories such as the 47 ronin to cleaning and care. There is good detail on the proper way to wear Hakama.
   
   The beginning of the book provides a complete anatomy of the sword which is a great reference. Mr. Craig explains the making of a sword, and the ritualistic formal examination of a sword and how to assess its quality and craftsmanship. After explaing how to wear the Hakama, he then proceeds to the basics of preparing for Iai-do practice and drills.
   
   Overall a very well done book! I very much enjoyed it!
   
   Kevin Brett
   Author: The Way of the Martial Artist: Achieving Success in Martial Arts and in Life!
   CEO: Kevin Brett Studios, Inc.
   The Way of the Martial Artist: Achieving Success in Martial Arts and in Life!



4. While I was hesitant to buy a book on sword play because it would take away from my sword play time, I am most pleased with the investment.
   
   An excellent blend of tips, history and philosophy makes for a read that makes you want to go out and practice what they teach.



5. I can appreciate some people's criticism of this book. Many of the techniques are very basic, but from a practice point of view the book is better suited to experienced practitioners who understand what they're looking at. I have not studied Mugai-ryu so I can't comment on that.
   
   For the beginner there is a lot of good information including history, technical terminology, sword care, basics like how to use a hakama, and while there may not be tremendous practical applications, opening up an awareness of things like sword testing and the procedures for Seppuku are certainly valid.
   
   For experienced people, there is a lot of good stuff here. For example Happo no Kame (8-directions), while it may seem basic to some, is a very advanced awareness that requires a lifetime of study. Bunkai is also covered, which is another high awareness dealing with periphery. So many books overlook these concepts you begin to wonder if the writer even knows they exist. This book deserves credit for this.
   
   The section on the 47 Ronin is nice, but at 15-pages it is very abridged. Better to read the john Allyn version to get the full story. This book has some good illustrations of the events. I particularly like that Craig included copies Yoshio's farewell statement, a map of the grave layout, and the rubbings of the tombs at Sengakuzi Temple (Tokyo).
   
   As to the waza (techniques) shown, they are very basic, which in the scope of this book feels totally appropriate. In the absence of a good teacher, someone with the tools, the desire, and a good copy of Go Rin No Sho (Book of 5-Rings) could build a personal practice using this book.
   
   Having done martial arts most of my life, I believe the art of the Japanese sword is perhaps the most difficult to master, if that's even the right word for the skill level most reach. It is unrealistic for people to teach themselves classical sword techniques from a book. Regardless of skill level, this is a great book to own that can offer something to everyone. I like it.

3 comments about The Shambhala Guide to Kendo: Its Philosophy, History, and Spiritual Dimension.

1. This book is very informative, and gives a clear background into Kendo practice. I highly recomend it to all who are intrested in Kendo, and Asian practices.



2. Only a very very general information on Kendo. You can easily get that much information from the net. No chance that you can get any serious hands on infromation.The title is misleading, the book could have been a short informative newspaper article.



3. Actually my sensei's book! He doesn't teach the swordfighting techniques to kendo in the book much at all, this is to learn about the philosophy and discipline of kendo as well as the history and the different schools that have evolved. Great if you are thinking about taking a course and learning Kendo. Kendo is about mind and body integration, TRUST ME, you need both to really learn it well. If your sensei doesn't teach you the philosophy and discipline, get a new one. I only give it four because perhaps I am spoiled in comparison, but there is even more depth that I think should have expanded the book. Great if you are interested or brand new to kendo, but still useful read even if you've been practicing for a while.

5 comments about Flashing Steel, 2nd edition: Mastering Eishin-Ryu Swordsmanship.

1. I have read many martial arts books over the years and found this one of the most satisfying. It is so well-written it was actually exciting to read. My yellow highlighter streaks nearly every page. The instructions and photographs are exceptionally clear. The first third of the book (of 338 pp.) deals with fundamentals--and I'm not talking about stance and strikes. The authors offer the clearest summary of martial arts philosophy I've ever read, covering its spiritual basis, attitude and a student's appropriate progression. For example, technique should progress "big-strong-fast-light," meaning get the basic form down accurately, learn to do it well (with power), then speed and lightness will come almost effortlessly and, with repetition will increase one's power and accuracy. These contextual explanations help considerably when doing the techniques.
   
   The dual authorship by a Japanese and an American master, who have worked together for decades, greatly enhances the book's presentation. The use of annoyingly obscure (to us English-speakers)Japanese words and phrases is not overdone, as in many martial arts books and is always clearly explained. I don't actually do iajustsu or iado, but this book has helped considerably with my kenjustu practice and bokken workouts.
   
   This book is so much better than Nicklaus Suino's "The Art of Japanese Swordship" (on the same Eishin-Ryu Iado), but that's another review.



2. First let me start by saying the First Edition is a fantastic book as the other reviewers have said. With that said the 2nd Edition is that much better. I own both editions. Where the first edition might have 4 photos of a series, the 2nd edition has 16 to 20. This means that you can see what the intermediate positions look like. The first edition is ~270 pages while the second edition is ~335. Also, the second edition is physically larger.
   
   Even if you already own the first edition I would recommend the second edition. Also, I would recommend Samurai Swordmanship Vol. 1: Basic Sword Program by Masayuki Shimabukuro as the author demonstrates what he describes in the book. The DVD does not match up perfectly with the book but is great for actually seeing and hearing how things are done. Also, it will help with your pronunciation.



3. There is a lot of great stuff in Flashing Steel, but there are also a few things to consider before purchasing. The back cover claims, "Flashing Steel is the most comprehensive guide available in iaijutsu...." when in fact its not. It also says, "...with ten partner exercises applying iaido principles in realistic attack and defense situations." I personally wouldn't say they are realistic at all. All that aside, the book is really geared towards beginner to intermediate iaido practitioners and here it delivers.
   
   If you are unfamiliar with Muso Jikiden Eishin-ryu Iaijutsu, it is a sword art that places tremendous emphasis on attention to detail and precision for mental and spiritual discipline. In fact, this book makes a point of clearly stating the art is not geared toward combat but rather on self-cultivation.
   
   "The fact that you will probably never engage in a real sword battle may, paradoxically, be the greatest benefit of sword training! Those who train in martial arts that have obvious practical application...too often find themselves so involved in developing skill in the physical self-defense applications of their art that they overlook their mental and spiritual training." (p11)
   
   This statement is both very honest and very accurate. The book continues, "...as a martial art that is highly ritualized, moderately paced, and without obvious street-application, iaijutsu provides an ideal environment in which to refine mental and spiritual discipline." Heijoshin is difficult to translate but is roughly equivalent to a 'serene yet fully alert state of mind'. This is the goal of this art.
   
   As to the techniques and 42-katas shown, they are very basic and pretty much use the same Nukitsuke (drawing cut), Chiburi (blood removal), and the same Noto (resheathing). To be fair he briefly demonstrates the Chiburi/Noto variation preferred by Katori Shinto Ryu (and myself) but he does not use this in his kata. There is a decent but still slightly lacking description on Kokyu (breath control) and the waza (techniques) are shown from both seiza (kneeling posture) and kamae (stance). The two-man sequences take up a lot of space and the only real value to them from my perspective is to illustrate range, which could have been done with greater economy had that been the author's intention.
   
   Beginners may have some trouble following the b/w sequence images for the waza as there are brief actions missing that may not be understood, but as far as martial art books go its not too bad here. I love iaido, but in practice if you are seeking spiritual development, less than a decade of diligent Ashtanga yoga will accomplish more than a lifetime of iaido.
   
   Unfortunately the Search Inside feature is not up. The table of contents include:
   
   1) History p1
   2) Philosophy p11
   3) Eyes of a Samurai p31
   4) Sword Nomenclature p47
   5) Progression of Training p51
   6) Preparation & Etiquette p63
   7) Fundamentals p85
   8) Omori-ryu Seiza Waza p123
   9) Chuden Tatehiza (crouching) Waza p151
   10) Okuden Tatehiza Waza p175
   11) Okuden Suwariwaza p209
   12) Tachiuchi (standing) no Kurai p223
   13) Zen Nippon Kendo Renmei Seitei Iai Kata p253
   14) Tameshigiri (cutting) p223
   15) Summary of Eishin-ryu p299
   16) Promotion Guidelines p303
   17) Tournament Participation p309
   18) The Way to Victorious Life p317
   App A: Samurai no Kokoro-e p333
   App B: Supplemental Materials
   
   The author has the correct positive martial message, and I was continually impressed by this fact. If you are studying Eishin-ryu or plan to in the future, this is an essential guide.



4. This is more of a question than a review as I do not as of yet own this book. I do however own the first Flashing Steel as well as the complete DVD series. What I want to or need to know is does this book contain the two new required waza from the ZNKR? There use to be ten (previously there was seven) now I understand that there is twelve. I am some what of a minimalist as I am not rich and do not see the need to continuously purchase the same material over no matter how acclaimed it may be. Not to critisize but the first book was highly held and from the table of contents some one published in one of the reviews it basically looks to be the same book. Oh yeah I know it has more and better photos and so forth and so on but is there any new relevant material? Honestly to say that this book is better is to say that the first was not that good and so it kind of sounds like a shame not to try to discredit the arthor. Any way after all that I just want to know is there any new material in the book?



5. I was told to get this book from my sensei in martial arts class. I am studying Kendo and this book has everything you need to know about combat with katanas. The author of the book is known as the best living swordsman in Japan. He has a 10th degree ranking in almost everything. The book has a lot of pictures that help guide you through techniques without making you try and figure it out based on the words alone. I would recommend taking a class along with the book so someone can give you a rounded experience but the book works great on its own.

5 comments about Practice Drills for Japanese Swordsmanship.

1. I have found this book to be a very useful tool in developing training drills and improving our basic techniques. The diagrams are easy to follow and textual information clear. Well worth having in the library.



2. I received the book in a timely manner and in new condition. I didn't expect that it would be printed with stick people. I find it difficult to follow but I'll figure it out.



3. This book had basic moves which is good, but never went into further detail. The illustrations were stick figures from a side view; there was no way to infer anything from them. I would not have gotten this book for my son if I had known the "true" lack of knowledge it contained.



4. Really good book. Helpful since i learn Kendo in Chinese and don't get much explanation for the moves. To be honest though, you really can't practice at home. You really have to go to class.



5. There is a reviewer that doesn't like this book because it has drawings instead of pictures.
   It is true what he says about the drawings, they are small and do not convey the movements of
   Iaido very well. However, the point about needing to practice the basics comes through load
   and clear. Finding a good teacher is also essential to learning how to handle a true Samurai
   sword.
   
   The book is not trying to be anything more than a companion to training and to the importance
   of practicing the basics. Sensei Nicklaus has written a fine book that, anyone wanting to someday
   Master the Art of the Sword, should add to their library. It's a good introduction until you
   can find a good teacher.
   
   Sensei Nicklaus style is Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu Iaido, the same style that I have just started
   however, the drills in this book pertains to any style. I give this book four stars because
   of those drawings but use the practice drills as often as possible.