Kashira (Pommel Cap)
The kashira is the cap fitted to the end of the katana sword hilt. The wrapping cord (tsuka-ito) is tied off at the side of the kashira. It is typically flat in shape and commonly made of metal such as copper or iron.
In tachi mountings, the corresponding fitting is called kabutogane, which is larger than the kashira used on uchigatana mountings and usually features a small hole in the center.
Tsuka-ito (Hilt Wrapping)
The tsuka-ito is the cord wrapped around the sword hilt. Its function is to secure the grip panels and provide a firm, comfortable hold, preventing the sword from slipping during use.
Tsuba (Guard)
Also known as e, the tsuba is the guard of the sword. In addition to protecting the hand, it is an essential point of leverage when drawing the blade. The tsuba is also the most artistically elaborate component of the sword mountings.
Kurigata
The kurigata secures the scabbard to the waist when the sword is worn, preventing it from slipping. It is usually made of wood or horn. Tachi mountings do not include a kurigata.
Sageo
The sageo is tied to the belt when the sword is worn at the waist, helping to prevent the scabbard from slipping. It is most commonly made of silk.
Kojiri (Scabbard End Cap)
The kojiri is the protective fitting at the end of the scabbard, typically made of metal or horn.
Samegawa (Ray Skin)
Samegawa is ray skin wrapped around the sword hilt, commonly referred to as βshark skinβ in China. The ray originates from the South Seas region and grows to approximately one and a half chi in length. Its surface is covered with raised, pebble-like nodules, which help the wrapping cord grip the hilt securely. In late Qing Dynasty China, this material was often used to make eyeglass cases.
KΕgai
The kΕgai serves both to help secure the blade and as a decorative element. It can also be used as a hairpin or ear pick. Most kΕgai are made of copper or copper alloys.
Kaerizuno
The kaerizuno is a device designed to prevent the scabbard from striking the ground. It is commonly made of wood or horn.
On tachi and han-tachi, the corresponding position features a metal, flower-shaped band known as sekigane, which is commonly referred to as kashiwa-ba (βoak leafβ) on military swords.
Authentic vs. Non-Authentic Sword Mountings
The distinction between authentic and non-authentic sword mountings lies primarily in whether the scabbard and fittings are made by traditional handcraft methods and custom-fitted specifically to the blade. Mountings made for one blade rarely fit another properly. In some cases, a swordβs exterior fittings may be sourced from various unrelated origins, resulting in mismatched, non-cohesive components, or even mass-produced modern parts. These are all points that sword enthusiasts must pay close attention to.
At a minimum, the fuchi and kashira on the hilt, as well as the pair of menuki, must be properly matched. The blade must draw from and return to the scabbard smoothly, and the proportion between the scabbard and the blade should be well balanced. For a long sword, the scabbard is typically about three to four centimeters longer than the blade, with both sharing the same curvature.
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