|
Post by Anders on Jul 3, 2011 20:11:24 GMT
Eh, I don't like this comparison at all. Drunk driving isn't just “a bad idea”, it's literally illegal in most countries. It's not a question of whether or not it should be “encouraged”; you are not allowed to do it. Period.
Cutting a few water bottles with a shirasaya isn't even remotely in the same ballpark and does, in fact, not use the same kind of ball. It's risky and inadvisable, yes, but Elhuru clearly already knew that and even specifically warns others about it. It's one thing to correct or even criticize someone acting irresponcibly out of folly or conciet, but in this case Elhuru knew the risk and made a judgement call. As an adult who is accountable for his own actions, I think he has that right.
|
|
|
Post by frankthebunny on Jul 4, 2011 3:05:34 GMT
I believe some of the common reasons a katana in shirasaya should not be used for cutting are: the wood used is generally softer than for making koshirae; not only is there no full samegawa and itomaki but no fuchi or kashira to help strengthen the throat and butt; the tsuka might not be fitted very well to the nakago leaving room for movement (especially in an inexpensive model); only one mekugi, which having a tighter fit of the nakago wouldn't really be an issue but it would be better with two in most production cases and often these are made of horn instead of bamboo. obviously lacking a tsuba would pose safety issues when thrusting but it is also easy to forget for a split second after the swing of a regular cut when you're not paying as much attention to where your hands are.
as far as the slickness of the wood goes, I have used hickory kali sticks for years which have a top coat of clear lacquer and they have never slipped even when my hands were sweaty. they are only 1" around so maybe that makes a difference. wooden handles on other types of swords are most likely made from a stronger hardwood and are riveted on, sometimes with the addition of epoxy or they are pinched in place by a guard and pommel.
you would probably come out safely 9.9 times out of 10 but........when you're dealing with a 3 foot razor blade with high potential for flight why take the chance?
|
|
|
Post by Jakeonthekob on Sept 3, 2011 5:31:25 GMT
The quality of the build makes all the difference. First and foremost would be how well the tsuka core is carved to fit the nakago and having 1 mekugi ana or 2 doesn't make a difference if the tsuka is carved precisely and carefully. If you notice Isao Machii, he uses a katana in shirasaya to cut through a metal pipe and metal plate. As Frank said, the only real difference I see between shirasaya and katana in full koshirae would be full samegawa wrap, well-fit fuchi/kashira, and choice of wood. There is no shade of doubt that a katana in full mounts like stated above would be MUCH more durable to cut with (and safer) but that does not mean you cannot cut with a shirasaya.
I myself have cut newspaper and bottles with my own Musashi shirasaya, though I will never cut mats with it ever. It's just frowned upon to cut with shirasaya due to safety concerns XD
Sorry for stealing the thread!
|
|