A wooden katana (also known as a bokken,) is a Japanese martial arts training tool and a deeply rooted part of samurai culture. These swords are often used in martial arts disciplines like Kendo, Iaido, and Kenjutsu. They’re perfectly crafted for practicing strikes, honing your form, and perfecting sparring techniques without the risk that comes with using a sharp blade.
Our Wooden Katanas: Strength, Precision, and Tradition
- Safe Training Option: Our wooden katanas are great for safely practicing strikes, stances, and techniques. Because there are no sharp edges to the sword, it’s great for martial artists of all levels.
- Durability and Strength: We craft our wooden katana from premium hardwoods like red oak and white oak, designed to withstand repeated use.
- Authentic Feel: Each of our swords is carefully weighted and balanced so it accurately mimics the feel of a real katana.
- Perfect for Sparring: Martial arts schools around the world use wooden katanas for contact training and partner drills.
- Beautiful Display Pieces: These are great for practice and also stunning additions to any sword collection.
How To Choose The Right Wooden Katana For You
Different wooden katanas are good for different purposes. Which sword you may want depends on your training style, material preference, and how you intend to use your wooden katana. Here are some factors to consider before buying your wooden katana:
1. Wood Type & Durability
- Red Oak – This is a popular option because it’s tough and impact-resistant. Because the material is so strong, swords made from this type of wood are great for regular training.
- White Oak – White oak is slightly denser than red oak so it offers more strength and durability.
- Hickory – This material is extremely tough and resistant to splitting. It’s the ideal wood type if you’re looking for a durable sword for more rigorous practice.
- Polypropylene – This is a modern alternative that offers extreme durability and weather resistance.
2. Length & Weight
- Standard Size (40 inches) – This is the most suitable size for most practitioners. It closely resembles a real katana.
- Shorter Bokken (Under 36 inches) – A great option for younger students and practitioners who are looking to practice with smaller swords like a wakizashi-style weapon.
- Heavier Bokken – If you’re looking for a wooden katana to help you with strength training, the heavier bokken is an option you may want to consider. It’s great for building wrist and arm endurance and strength.
3. Intended Use
Solo Training – A lighter wooden katana for kata practice and practicing correct form is great if you’re training alone.
Sparring & Partner Drills – Look for a reinforced bokken which is great if you’re practicing with a partner. It’s ideal to have a wooden katana with a tsuba (handguard) for safety.
Display & Collection – If your wooden katana is more of a decorative piece, handcrafted wooden katanas with lacquered finishes or intricate carvings look impressive on display.
Caring for Your Wooden Katana
Maintaining the longevity of your wooden katana means ensuring it remains in good shape for a long time. We recommend keeping your blade oiled to prevent it from drying and cracking.
When you’re storing your wooden katana, keep it in a cool, dry place to avoid humidity, as this causes warping.
If you notice rough spots or splinters, this is normal over time. Simply sand down those rough spots sooner rather than later before they worsen.
FAQs About Wooden Katanas
Are Wooden Katanas Good for Beginners?
Yes. Wooden katanas are the perfect practice weapon for beginners because they’re safer than a sharp, real blade. You can work on fundamental strikes, footwork, and kata (forms) with the knowledge that you won’t get seriously hurt.
Many martial arts schools start students with a wooden katana before progressing to a live steel blade once they’ve gotten the basic skills down. They are also more lightweight than a regular katana, so even if you’re not a beginner and you’re looking to focus on technique and precision, a wooden katana is a great tool to help you.
While it’s comparatively safer, a wooden katana can still cause injuries. If you wield it with force, you can cause bruising or break skin, so always be careful when using any sword.
How Much Does A Wooden Katana Cost?
The price of a wooden katana can differ depending on what materials are used, how authentic it is, and the craftsmanship that goes into making it.
Basic Bokken: These prices can range from $20 to $50 for standard options. Basic bokkens are typically made of oak.
Mid-Range Bokken: Expect to pay around $50 to $150 for this kind of wooden katana. They’re typically crafted using higher-quality wood, like the highly durable Japanese white oak, or have custom craftsmanship.
High-End Bokken: If you’re looking for a top-of-the-range bokken, especially one that is hand-crafted or made from rare woods, you may pay between $150 to $300 or even more.
Looking to Add to Your Collection?
For more traditional training weapons, browse our Japanese sword and katana sword collections. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or just starting your journey, a high-quality wooden katana is a great tool to help you master the art of the sword.
