Dha handling during cutting

[kahnjar1]

Originally Posted by katana

Traditionally, when held one-handed, where would the hand grip the handle.... Towards the pommel end or near to the ferrule (blade) ?

I would have thought the positioning of the hand would also affect the vibration felt.

Instinctively, I grip near to the ferrule end .....so effectively my hand is around the tang as I feel that this is the safest placement to prevent the force of the strike ripping the tang through the rattan handle....maybe I'm being 'over cautious'

Regards David

I have just got hold of a copy of the movie The Legend of Suriyothai. A Thai made historical movie, and the prolific use of Dha in battle and in ritual beheading, suggests that either the tang length was longer in those days or the short tang is quite sufficient. I DO realise that a certain amount of artistic licence was probably taken, but the Dha IS a weapon to be used.

Mark--if you have not seen this movie, I'm sure you will like it, as it shows PLENTY of Dha as well other Thai weapons such as pole arms.
Regards Stuart