the REN DAO Wellness Center Blog

Sensei Louis Rodriguez, head instructor of the REN DAO Iaido / Swordsmanship class, is currently in Florida where he resides six months out of the year. He writes…

I hope everyone is practicing as hard as I’m trying to get Samurai roots into this part of Florida. I have made contact with the Toyama Ryu Batto Do Konjaku Kioi Dojo in St Petersburg and was warmly received by head instructor Mike Femal and his wife Sherry. I had a chance to look over there vast assortment of Iaido equipment and supplies they have for sale (including swords, uniforms, etc). Most swords (Iaido) range from 26-29” and they range in price as well. Call or email me if you are in need of one. I just bought one (27″ long) for myself at 500 US Dollars. It is very well balanced and light weight. I will bring it to New York so that you may see the quality in the workmanship.

In my experience there is nothing like handling and measuring a Katana in the store before purchasing. I can use my experience to match anyone with the right Katana. Remember the proper length for an individual’s blade is for the tip to be an inch off the floor when holding the sword down with the arm slightly bent. Based on my blade I can more or less eye which size is right for someone else. More on this subject to come on my next email.

I will be an invited guest at the University of Florida’s Kendo Club this June to share practice and view there “Shinken” live blade Katana collection. They are heavy into the sport of Kendo. Will get back to you soon!

Edited by M. Kelly