Iai: The Art of Drawing the Sword by Darrell Craig (1991, Paperback)

I study a variation of Ono-Ha Ittoryu Kenjutsu (fencing with the Japanese "Samurai" sword [katana or two-handed saber]). Many of the sword kata that I have learned incorporate swift and deadly initial movements both during and immediately after drawing the katana. I have found this book to be very complimentary to my real-world training. Although there is some variation between what I'm learning versus the terminology in this book, the actual techniques are strikingly parallel.

The technique illustrations are basic, but convey a sense of movement and expected path of the blade very well. My compliments to the author, because that is something that is quite difficult to do. The illustrations portray movements that I think I can follow in the real-world. As my kenjutsu training progresses I will try to incorporate these techniques as supplemental training.

The lessons of history are also very valuable. The stories and sketches are entertaining.

The author attempts to convey to the reader a sense of the "spiritual" aspects of sword training. To the outsider (person that does not train in the sword arts) this spiritual discussion comes across as useless crap. However to the person who trains with these weapons, it is a valid topic. The need to have the right mental and spiritual "mindset" is essential to dampen the "noise" caused by our brain's habit of over-thinking in stressful situations. The mind must be quiet... still... ready to move. [The mind cannot move in the right direction if it is already in motion somewhere else]. I think the author makes a fairly strong stab (pun intended) at this subject. It cannot be easily taught, especially through written word.

As an insider to sword training I give this book an excellent rating. I think you'd like it at the very least for the entertaining stories.

Awesome book!! I do Iaido and I know this book will help me. Plus, my teacher (Sensei,a 4th Dan in Iai), recommended this book. It's not a total instructional book, rather a good mixture of instruction& history of.

i pratice kumdo and the book is informative i especialy like the zen part of it.the writer is a good story teller.