Topic: How do I sign up?

[Liam]

Hey Moley you seems to be the resident sword expert on here so this question is most relevant to you.

Do I have to be a a certain belt before I can to use a Katana?

[JimmyTheHoover]

Hi Liam,

Moley is away on a holiday at the moment but perhaps Huw/lloydie or Azzy can give you definitive answer 

.....however I don't think that there is a Karate Grade "prerequisite" as such before you can Buy a Katana - the Katana swordsmanship stuff is AFIK just somethimg that some Seke - who also happen to be Sword enthusiasts - do as well as Shotokan 

.....however I'm sure that they would all say - if you get a Katana - treat it with respect (safety practices etc.) and make sure to get a good quality one  I'm sore that the others will chip in as they see fit 

[Azzy_Stealth]

I don't think that there is a Karate Grade "prerequisite" as such before you can Buy a Katana - the Katana swordsmanship stuff is AFIK just somethimg that some Seke - who also happen to be Sword enthusiasts - do as well as Shotokan 

.....however I'm sure that they would all say - if you get a Katana - treat it with respect (safety practices etc.) and make sure to get a good quality one   

I agree with Jimmy for once.
some very good advice, especially "you get a Katana - treat it with respect (safety practices etc.) and make sure to get a good quality one".

I'm sure youve read Moleys little briefing on Katana: Safety, Care, Use & Maintenance.
& He'll be back soon and repeat it to you.

Take care there Bloody sharp, Dont use indoor at all. 

[Lloydie]

Liam wrote:

Do I have to be a a certain belt before I can to use a Katana?

Hi Liam

No, you can lose your fingers with a katana at any grade.  However, the higher the grade you are,  the least sympathy will be offered and more derisory laughter will echo in your ears (Providing, of course that you haven't chopped them off!)

Seriously, if you get a "live" blade, you will quickly become aware that it will easily "bite" you if you are careless, Moley and I (and others I am sure) are always careful with blades, but we have had several "nicks" during routine cleaning etc.

Also, you need to keep it in a safe place away from untrained handlers.  If you are thinking of buying a katana, speak to Moley, who is an expert on these things.  Don't be tempted to buy on Evil Bay unless you really know what you are doing. 

Lloydie

[Liam]

Is there any paticular order in which I should cut my fingers off in?

I shall consult Moley before purchasing a sword.

[JimmyTheHoover]

Is there any paticular order in which I should cut my fingers off in?

I shall consult Moley before purchasing a sword.

I believe that if you dishonour your Instructor you are required to cut of a little finger first and offer it wrapped in white cloth as an apology 

.....that's why my nickname is "Stumpy"     

[Moley]

Don't get a katana if you don't know what you are doing or getting

this is a feller from the U.S. and he was used to handling katanas.

http://forums.swordforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=58276&d=1113428566


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