tsuka

Tsuka is a Japanese term meaning “handle” or “grip.” In martial arts and traditional weaponry, it most often refers to the hilt of a blade, especially the katana, and is usually written with a kanji meaning handle (柄). The tsuka encompasses the wooden core that forms the grip and, on the outside, the wrapping and fittings that secure and decorate it.

Parts and construction: The blade’s tang, or nakago, extends into the tsuka and is held in place by bamboo pins called mekugi that pass through mekugi-ana, holes in the tsuka. The exterior wrap is tsuka-ito, a braided cord or thread. Under the wrap is samegawa, typically rayskin, which provides texture and grip. End fittings include the kashira (end cap) at the pommel end and the fuchi (collar) near the guard. Small ornaments called menuki may be placed beneath the wrap for grip and decoration.

Usage and significance: The length, thickness, and shape of the tsuka affect balance, control, and comfort in handling the weapon. Proper tsuka-maki (the wrapping technique) is valued for security and ergonomics, contributing to the weapon’s performance and the wielder’s confidence.

Other uses: Outside sword contexts, tsuka can refer to handles or shafts of other tools and weapons in Japanese, using the same concept of a grip. In non-Japanese contexts, tsuka may appear as a transliteration or part of proper names.

See also: katana, tsuka-maki, tsuka-ito, samegawa, nakago, mekugi, kashira, fuchi.