BOKKEN (wooden sword)
History
The bokken was a popular samurai training sword because it was safer and less expensive than a “live” blade. When used in competition it could be fatal, and samurai would often keep a bokken nearby while they slept, so intruders could be captured without spilling blood within the house.
Traditional use
The bokken was primarily used to practice blocking and entering techniques.
Current use
The bokken is still used in place of the katana (sword) for training, competition, and demonstrations.
