What’s This For? #habaki

Have you ever wondered what this on the katana is for? This metal fitting is called Habaki, and although it is small, it actually has important functions. The first purpose is to keep the blade suspended within the scabbard when sheathed. If the blade contacts the inside of the scabbard, it risks getting scratched or rusted. To avoid this, the blade is securely fixed by the habaki. Another purpose is to prevent the blade from easily falling out of the scabbard. If the blade were to come out with slight movements or during transport, it would be dangerous. In the past, people always carried their swords at their waist, so they couldn’t always hold down the tsuba with their thumb. Thus, the habaki helps to keep the blade in place.

However, in case of emergency, the sword must be drawn quickly. The habaki is crafted with such precision that while it prevents accidental unsheathing, it allows for quick drawing when needed. Interestingly, there are even specialized craftsmen known as “Shiroganeshi” who make habaki.

*The content of this video is based on personal studies and experience. There is no intention of denying other theories and cultural aspects.

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[harunsuaidi]

"Although it is small, it actually has important functions."

Thank you for your motivating words, Shogo-san.

[Azukaae]

Another reason why it slid easily other than because it's crafted precisely, is because it is mostly made out of material with low friction such as brass. In the case it is made out of other material, it is meticulously crafted with inscriptions or engravings to reduce the surface which it contacts the saya (scabbard), therefore reducing friction.

[chrisk]

The habaki has mechanical function for the crossguard too. The machi is a point of concentrated force in striking. The habaki is made of soft metal to absorb this shock at the crossguard. As the habaki deforms with use, seppa can be used to address the deformation.

[Simon_Electric]

That is the only part of the katana that i have never seen be crafted. Had no idea it was a specialist that made them. I learned something new today😊

[zephyrstrife]

It's amazing to see the level of technical skill that goes into weaponsmithing. Simplicity can be elegant and this is a simply efficient design that makes use of what was available for the time.

These kinds of details are why i think Japan is cool

[Narokkurai]

Also gives us the samurai equivalent of a cowboy cocking his pistol.

[IamDoogy]

Japanese culture is so fascinating.
Their fanatical attention to detail translate to high quality manufactured goods.

[lucklessstoryteller]

It's also meant to redistribute the stress from the blade away from the tsuba, where it would be likely to snap. Source is Ilya from That Works, who is a very talented blacksmith who is very skilled in forging japanese blades.

[mikerouch]

As a sword maker the most important thing a habaki does is grip the blade while giving the handle and cross guard something flat and structural to secure the handle to. Without a habaki handle accoutrements would eat the blade.

[invisibleplanets]

I love your new kimono. Also continuing to enjoy your videos!

[森雪]

Hey, Shogo! I am from the Higashiyama District of Kyoto and I am very proud of my country, thank you for sharing very important and interesting information of our country. You have earned my respect!

[johnnymontalvo]

Looking sharp, man!
I’m liking the hair. Also the brown hakama is really nice.

[IslamBenfifi]

Okay but why is your hair so fabulous 🤩

[lasithajayawardana]

Katanas are like the Panzer tanks of Germany. So many intricate and precise parts, you take one specialist out of the equation and production grinds to a halt.

[machinedragonnero]

Ancient Japanese blacksmiths were on a whole nother level

[tiawheeler]

That honestly makes sense... you don't want to risk cutting yourself or someone else by your sword falling out by accident.

That being said, I am two minutes away from asking where does Shogo-san get those kimono. They are awesome!

[RobertPowell-dx]

I didn't know this, but that is exactly what I thought it was for. I collect knives and swords and have noticed other blades without this feature must be kept out of the scabbard or they rust and/or corrode.

[ryanbarclay]

Very interesting! The old swordsmiths remind me of the gunsmiths in America today. They obsess over little details to improve the tools their customers carry. Ironically it is people obsessed with the fine points of killing who can keep you alive in a bad situation.

[feral_shade]

That's pretty impressive that they designed it so precisely to have that perfect balance between security and accessibility

I'm compelled to wonder though...with such delicate precision, don't the habaki need to be replaced fairly frequently?

[Hollowichigo]

You forgot that its also used as a shock absorber to prevent the blade breaking at the base as the shockwave from the connecting would shatter the blade great video as always