Iaito sword length question?
this is for people who are well experienced in iaido/iaijutsu or any martial using an iaito. I’ve been using a standard bokken for a while and was ready for a iaito. but when i browse around, i’m 6’4" so i’m having trouble what length of the blade. a lot of websites have different suggestions and i thought at least 2.60 or 2.65 shaku would do well. I need a little advice.
It depends, primarily, on the style that you practice. Some styles prefer iaito or shinken with nagasa sufficient so that the kissaki is about an inch or so from the ground when held in your hand with your feet together and arm at your side. That is a "general" guideline. Other styles such as the Yamaguchi branch of Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu like to use very large swords whereas other styles may prefer a slightly smaller sword to facilitate a fast nukiuchi.
Consult your instructor first and determine the preference of your style, especially because there may be other characteristics that you might not be aware of.
i take different styles of iaido, and they require different length blades more because of the different drawing methods.
this is something you need to discuss with your instructor he can assist you in getting the proper length