sekiri

Sekiri is a Japanese sword, also known as a wakizashi, which is a shorter companion sword to the longer katana. The term "sekiri" specifically refers to the act of drawing the wakizashi from its scabbard, which is a crucial skill in Japanese martial arts. The wakizashi is typically worn on the left hip, and its quick draw is a testament to the agility and reflexes of the samurai. The blade of a sekiri is usually shorter and thinner than that of a katana, often around 24 to 30 inches in length, and is designed for close combat and quick strikes. The handle, or tsuka, is often wrapped in a cloth called a fukuro, which is a distinctive feature of the wakizashi. The sekiri is not only a practical tool for self-defense but also a symbol of the samurai's honor and discipline. It is an essential part of the traditional Japanese martial arts, such as kenjutsu and iaijutsu, and its mastery requires years of training and dedication.