In a nutshell ⚡
What is a Saya?
- Wooden scabbard for katana and Japanese swords.
- Custom-made for each katana.
- Lacquered with Urushi for protection.
- Essential in iaido for a quick draw.
- Kurigata, koiguchi, kojiri.
- Decorated (drawing, ray skin, buffalo horn…).
Or read on for detailed information 📚!
A saya is a wooden scabbard for Japanese swords and daggers, such as katana, wakizashi, iai-tō, or tantō. This wooden sheath not only protects and stores the blade but also makes it easy to draw.
Materials
Saya is traditionally made from light woods, among which magnolia is particularly prized. This wood is prized for its hygrometric properties, i.e. its ability to regulate humidity, thus protecting the blade from oxidation and rust. The choice of magnolia is not just a technical one; its soft texture also preserves the katana’s edge as the blade is inserted and withdrawn.
The outside of the saya is often lacquered, thanks to the application of layers of Urushi lacquer, a natural resin that gives the scabbard a deep shine and great resistance to weathering.
Key elements of Saya
The Kurigata (栗形) is a small ring, usually made of wood or horn, used to attach the Sageo, a braided rope. The Sageo plays a key role in securing the katana to the owner’s belt (obi) and stabilizing the weapon during movement.
The tip of the Saya called the Kojiri (小尻), can be reinforced with a metal or horn tip to ensure greater durability and to adorn the saya. This reinforcement protects the saya from impact and wear.
The entrance of the saya, or Koiguchi (鯉口), meaning “carp mouth”, is meticulously designed to allow smooth insertion of the blade.
In some cases, the Koiguchi is reinforced with a horn to prevent distortion over time. The Koiguchi is particularly important in saya manufacture, as it determines the fit between the blade and scabbard. A good Koiguchi allows smooth insertion, while a poor fit could damage the katana’s hamon (temper line) and slow the sword’s exit. The Fuchi and Kashira, which are the ends of the handle (tuska), are sometimes aesthetically matched to the ends of the scabbard.
Saya manufacture
The saya consists of two wooden shells, carefully cut and fitted to the blade. The swordsman’s job is to prevent the blade from floating in the scabbard or, on the contrary, from rubbing, which would damage the blade’s finish.
Once the two shells have been assembled, they are sanded to their final shape, before being lacquered and decorated according to the owner’s choice. Each saya is unique, fitted to a specific blade.
Saya decoration
Although Kuroishime (matte black) Saya is common, there are many saya variants, often richly decorated with Sagemono. Some are adorned with gold patterns or intricate paintings, reflecting the individuality and status of their owner. Saya used for ceremonies or demonstrations are often called Koshirae, while others, such as the battō-saya, are designed for practical, effective use in combat situations.
Saya and the Art of Iaido
In the martial art of Iaido, the Saya plays a central role in the art of rapid drawing (Nuki Tsuke) and sheathing (Noto). Practitioners using Bokken or Iaitō learn to handle the Saya with care, the movement of the scabbard being as important as the movement of the blade. For example, when drawing, the left-hand pulls back the Saya (Saya Biki), allowing the blade to be drawn more quickly.
The Noto, or art of sheathing, is one of the most delicate moments in Iaido. During this maneuver, the fingers of the left hand, except the index finger, hide the Koiguchi, illustrating a “feminine principle”, while the index finger delicately guides the blade towards the scabbard. This gesture, performed in a state of Zanshin (absolute vigilance), symbolizes the practitioner’s mastery and serenity.
Saya in Ninjutsu
In Ninjutsu, the Saya takes on an even more versatile function. Ninjas often used Sageo to attach the sword to their Obi, but also to neutralize an opponent. The Sageo could be used to strangle or immobilize, while the sword remained in its scabbard, illustrating mastery of fighting techniques without drawing.
How to maintain a Saya?
One of the most common concerns with saya is the dilatation of the wood due to rapid variations in the environment. Before worrying about an ill-fitting scabbard, it is advisable to wait about 15 days to see if the wood naturally adapts.
To maintain your Saya and ensure its durability, we recommend :
- Clean regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Avoid humidity and temperature variations, which can cause the wood to shrink or expand.
- Store the katana with the cutting edge facing upwards to avoid damaging the blade or saya.
- Inspect regularly for signs of wear, and consult a professional if necessary.
How much does a Saya cost?
A top-of-the-range Saya made by hand using the traditional Japanese method costs between 500 and 1500 pounds, reflecting meticulous swordsmanship and a lengthy process. However, the majority of Saya today are mass-produced, making it possible to offer more affordable katanas of decent quality. In this case, the price of a Saya is around 50 pounds.