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Post by johnwalter on Jun 28, 2013 0:30:49 GMT
I have a cracked tsuka in need of replacement and an old broken bokken(a lesson from uchikomi practice).White oak from Nihonzashi.Is the handle section suitable to carve a tsuka from?
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Post by deejay on Jun 28, 2013 14:08:29 GMT
White oak would be more than suitable John-wicked tough stuff.
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Post by frankthebunny on Jun 28, 2013 17:27:19 GMT
While some argue that American yellow poplar (tulip wood) is the closest substitute for Japanese honoki wood, I have heard of people using oak. However, oak is harder than poplar and can carry vibrations from a strike more than poplar would and can also be a bit more difficult to carve as well as a little heavier. There are some oaks that also react with metal and can cause corrosion.
If this is a replacement for a beater or just for practice then go for it but if it's a sword you use often and care about I would pick up some kiln dried poplar boards instead. They will be better overall and are pretty affordable and easily obtained. When choosing boards for tsuka you want to get 3/8"-1/2" (the thicker it is, the more you'll have to remove when shaping) thick and look for the most even and tight grain structure with no knots, rot, sugar deposits, or any other major flaws.
Have fun!
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Post by johnwalter on Jun 28, 2013 20:37:39 GMT
It would be for my heavily used Raptor shinogi.The vibration was my main concern Josh,especially on my go to bamboo cutter.So then Im guessing this piece of Japanes Ipe isnt a good choice either,guess it will become a shoto tanrenbo.Thanks guys.
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