Locking Japanese swords

[liangjieming]

Hi, I apologise for my ignorance in the correct terminology but can someone show me how Japanese swords are tied to the scabbard so that they can't be drawn?

I've posted this query on the sword forum as well and they've been very helpful there but I'd like to know what forummers here think.

I once read that sometimes swords were "sealed" with a knot for certain reasons, like for safekeeping until it can be returned to its owner, or in a "never-fight-again"-type oath, or to be passed down and kept locked until the new owner comes of age, etc.

Does anyone here know how this knot is tied?

Thanks
Jieming

[Otagiri Tatsuzou]

I was once shown a fairly straight-forward method of using the sageo to wrap from the saya, over the tsuba, and around the tsuka. This 'knot' was used to secure the blade in the saya while transporting the blade. It wasn't meant for 'permanancy' or 'display'.

Basically, the middle of the sageo was passed through the kurigata and the sageo lifted over the tsuba. Then the sageo was wound tightly around the tsuka, the two halves of the sageo kept together making the wind two layers deep, until you reach a loop or two before the end. This loop was kept loose, a final wrap of the sageo took place and the ends passed through the loose loop. Then a twist by hand of two of these final loops tighted the whole thing.

There are several on this board who know much more than I about swords, however.

[liangjieming]

Forgive me for my ignorance. The Sageo is the sword-hanging cord? Tsuka is the handle grip? The Saya is the scabbard? Any picture?

[Date Saburou Yukiie]

Yes, you have correct terminology. I will try to find some pics for you.
By the way - I totally enjoy your Chinese Siege Weapon pages...very very nice!
Date

[liangjieming]

Thank you!