Flashing Steel, the best-selling and highly acclaimed book on iaijutsu (alternatively called iaido), is as much about bringing life into focus as it is about techniques of swordsmanship. Iaijutsu was the martial art of the samurai of feudal Japan who remain the most enduring of warrior icons, equally popular in the East and the West. Iaijutsu sword training has philosophical tenets that inform the warrior's life, building compassion and self-discipline both inside and outside the dojo. Shimabukuro Shihan and Pellman Sensei combine practical exercises, photographs, and historical and cultural context in a thoughtful guide to this most popular of Japanese sword arts. The book features Master Masayuki Shimabukuro's renowned expertise and classical training, with Leonard Pellman adapting the information for a Western audience. Included here are dozens of kata (formal training patterns) that govern iaijutsu, with partner exercises applying the principles of the art in realistic attack and defense situations. These kata are also widely practiced by students of kendo, aikido, and other sword-based martial arts, giving the book a wider relevance beyond iaijutsu. This second edition of Flashing Steel includes new techniques, updated photographs, and theoretical explanations for both new and existing sword forms.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
Decent instruction manual:
I did not enjoy the first 62 pages of spiritual mumbo jumbo. After that there are 274 pages of useful instruction. I bought this book because we are doing some Eishinryu in the dojo. It makes a great reference for Eishinryu. I demote it 1 star for all that Zen / Jesus freakish soul instruction in the beginning. It is more likely than not if you are studying Japanese swordsmanship then you have studied other martial arts previously. People usually dont just jump up and say "Hey I think I will study a martial... more info
Another Gem from Shimabukuro Sensei:
While the first edition broke new ground outlining many of the techniques and the philisophy of Eishin Ryu swordsmanship, the second edition raises the bar significantly. There are more photos that make understanding and referencing the waza easier but even Shimabukuro Sensei would tell you that you need a qualified teacher to guide you. I've trained with Shimabukuro Sensei and there are myriads of layered technique, bunkai,and meaning behind what he does but this book gives you a great head start.
Amazing book:
This second edition has even more detail and photographs than the first edition. While a book is never a substitute for in-person training, it makes an excellent reference and study guide for the Iai student. Definitely a must-buy, I highly recommend this book.
A MUST if you are a sword student and lover:
There's a lot of books about sword, believe me, I have plenty, and I learn nothing intresting from a lot of them. But if you are looking for something else than tecnique, this is the book for you. Also, if you are a serious student of iaido, kenjutsu or kendo, or even karate or aikido, this book is for you too.
When you are really inlove with sword arts, when you also love japanese culture, when you really feel, like your sensei teach, that this is something to study for your entire life, because... more info
